Simple Things To Do in Ouray Colorado
Nestled deep within a stunning box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, Ouray, Colorado, lives up to its nickname as the “Switzerland of America.” While the town is a haven for serious adventurers, with world-class ice climbing, rugged 4×4 trails, and challenging high-altitude hikes, its charm also lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be an expert climber or a seasoned off-roader to experience the magic of Ouray. From soaking in natural hot springs with mountain views to strolling down a historic Main Street, there are countless ways to enjoy this breathtaking destination at a relaxed pace. This guide is for those who want to savor the simple pleasures of a mountain escape and discover the quiet beauty that makes Ouray truly unforgettable.
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Ouray, Colorado: A Quick Intro
“the switzerland of america”
It’s no exaggeration that Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America.” This nickname comes from the town’s spectacular setting, completely surrounded by towering, jagged peaks of the San Juan Mountains. The dramatic, box-canyon landscape, with its cascading waterfalls and sheer rock faces, bears a striking resemblance to the majestic scenery of the Swiss Alps. Just as in Switzerland, Ouray is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering incredible hiking, climbing, and off-roading opportun.
standing by blue river downtown breckenridge
transportation to ouray, colorado
There are multiple options to get to Ouray, Colorado depending on where you’re coming from!
by plane
If flying is your preference, the closest major airport is Denver International Airport, which is a 6 hour drive to Ouray. There are some smaller airports around Colorado as well. If you’re flying from PHX (a majority of my audience), the flights are only 1.5 hours and usually pretty affordable!
road trip
Maybe you like road tripping. Maybe you have a dog and don’t want to leave them behind! If you’re coming from Phoenix, it’s an 8 hour drive. I would definitely add multiple stops in Colorado if you plan on doing it. Honestly, the drive doesn’t seem as long because you’re driving through so many beautiful areas. Highly recommend a camper van if you’re traveling to Colorado with a dog(s) or a child!
best season to visit ouray
Ouray is beautiful all year, with each season offering a different vibe. Summer is perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. Fall brings stunning golden and crimson aspen leaves. Winter offers a peaceful, snowy escape with hot springs and world-class ice climbing. The shoulder seasons of spring and late fall are ideal for a more relaxed, crowd-free visit.
Simple Things To Do in Ouray Colorado
I really wanted to keep this simple for you. You don’t need to go do crazy, long hikes or do the via ferrata or go off-roading to enjoy Ouray. This guide is for those that are budget-minded and may have a time constraint!
1: Visit the Quaint Downtown Area
One of the best simple things to do when visiting a new place is to check out the downtown area, and Ouray’s downtown is so cute!! Be sure to stop by Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee for their legendary homemade chocolates and coffee. For a more substantial meal, grab a seat at Ouray Brewery, which offers great pub fare and even better views from its rooftop patio. Don’t leave without exploring the local art scene and browsing the unique goods at places like The Merchantile Ouray.
If you like an interative itinerary, you can check out this same content in different format on the Steller app. It’s free to use (I love it) and connects to maps for directions, bookings for activities, etc!
2. See Box Canyon Falls
Just a short walk from downtown, the thundering roar of Box Cañon Falls draws visitors into a spectacular natural wonder. As Canyon Creek funnels into a narrow, 100-foot-deep gorge, it plummets 285 feet in a powerful cascade. The park offers an easy-to-access trail leading to a suspended metal walkway, allowing you to get up close to the misty spray and feel the incredible force of the water. It’s such a quick, simple, and affordable attraction. Definitely add this to your list of things to do in Ouray Colorado.
3. Soak in Ouray Hot Springs
The existence of Ouray’s hot springs is a geological marvel, a direct result of the tectonic forces that shaped the San Juan Mountains. The town sits on a large geological fault line, which allows water heated by the earth’s deep core to rise to the surface. Unlike many other hot springs, Ouray’s are largely odorless and sulfur-free, rich in minerals like iron, manganese, zinc, and fluoride. These minerals are believed to offer therapeutic benefits, and for centuries, the Ute people considered the waters sacred for their healing properties. Today, a soak in these mineral-rich pools is a popular way to ease muscle aches, improve circulation, and simply find a moment of peace. It’s a powerful reminder that some of the best remedies for a tired body and mind are found in the simplest gifts of nature.
pictured: (top) ouray hot springs, (bottom) twin peaks resort & hot springs
Did you know there’s more than just 1 hot springs in Ouray? Here’s some options for you! Pictured above is Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Twin Peaks Resort & Hot Springs.
- Ouray Hot Springs Pool: A large, public, family-friendly pool with stunning mountain views. This one is sulfur-free, so it doesn’t have the typical “rotten egg” smell.
- Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings: A more intimate, European-style spa experience with a natural Vaporcave, outdoor pools, and private soaking options.
- Orvis Hot Springs: Located just outside of Ouray in Ridgway, this clothing-optional hot springs retreat is known for its serene, natural setting and lithium-rich water, believed to have mood-stabilizing properties.
- Twin Peaks Resort & Hot Springs: A private resort with a newly renovated pool and hot springs area with an underground steam cave.
4. Hike the Ouray Perimeter Trail
I do suggest at least doing one hike in Ouray- but keep it simple, and short if needed. The Ouray Perimeter Trail (literally goes around the perimeter of the city) is epic. The beauty of this 6-mile loop is that you don’t have to commit to the whole thing to feel like you’ve experienced Ouray’s splendor. We chose to tackle a section, soaking in the misty magic of Cascade Falls and climbing to a viewpoint that gave us a jaw-dropping aerial perspective of the town nestled in the valley. The trail is expertly crafted, with scenic detours and multiple access points that make it easy to craft your own adventure. My favorite parts of this trail were hiking through the tunnel over Box Canyon Falls and seeing Cascade Falls.
5. See the “Switzerland of America” Sign
Seeing the “Switzerland of America” sign in Ouray is one of the most simple things to do in Ouray Colorado. It’s the perfect photo op, a snapshot of a moment that you spend in this beautiful area. It’s so easy to find, off the side of the road just before you get into town (if you’re coming from the Silverton direction).
6. See Bear Creek Falls
A stop at Bear Creek Falls isn’t just a break from driving; it’s a jaw-dropping reminder of the raw power of the San Juan Mountains. Located on a pullout just south of town along the famous Million Dollar Highway, the viewpoint offers a stunning perspective of the falls as they thunder down the Uncompahgre Gorge. You can feel the mist in the air as you peer down at the rushing water, a powerful cascade plummeting hundreds of feet below the bridge you just crossed. The sheer rock walls and the sound of the churning water create an immersive experience, a perfect moment to pause and appreciate the untamed beauty that defines Ouray’s breathtaking landscape. I know this is a goofy photo, but we took it at the Bear Creek Falls overlook!
7. Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Driving the Million Dollar Highway out of Ouray is not just a scenic drive; it’s a heart-stopping adventure. As soon as you leave the charming streets of Ouray, the road begins its dramatic climb, clinging precariously to the side of the mountains. With no guardrails for much of the journey and sheer drops on one side, every twist and turn offers a new, breathtaking vista. It’s a drive that demands your full attention and rewards you with some of the most spectacular views and is one of the best things to do in Ouray Ccolorado.
Final Thoughts about Things To Do in Ouray Colorado
Ouray, Colorado, lives up to its nickname, the “Switzerland of America,” with an array of activities for every type of traveler. The town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from heart-pounding drives along the Million Dollar Highway to challenging hikes on the iconic Perimeter Trail. I hope you enjoy all of the simple activities to add to your next trip to the area!