The One Rockies Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
Almost everybody wants to visit the Rocky Mountains at least once in their life. The largest mountain system in North America, the Rockies have dramatic landscapes with towering peaks, such as Mount Elbert, beautiful lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. If you are looking to visit the Rockies, the one town you should make sure to visit is Ouray in Colorado. Often called the Switzerland of America due to its stunning mountain scenery, Ouray is a town full of opportunities for outdoor adventure. From ice climbing to relaxing in the hot springs, there is something for everybody to enjoy. Explore why this is the one town you need to visit at least once in your life in the Rockies.
Stunning Natural Beauty
The rugged terrain, stunning alpine scenery, and wildflowers during the summertime make the mountains around Ouray some of the most beautiful in the Rockies. The majestic peaks are part of the San Juan Mountains. The jagged peaks rise 12,000 to 13,000 feet, creating a stunning backdrop commonly referred to as the Switzerland of America. The geographic bowl formed by steep mountainsides creates stunning views that will make you want to reach for your camera. Depending on the time of year you visit Ouray, the scenery will change. In the summertime, enjoy cascading creeks, lush greenery, and vibrant wildflowers. The clear blue skies and sunny days transform Ouray into a paradise for hiking and soaking up the sun. In the wintertime, Ouray is transformed into a charming winter wonderland perfect for enjoying the holiday spirit.
Outdoor Adventure
Being in the Rocky Mountains, it is no surprise that there are numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure in Ouray. From hiking to ice climbing and backcountry skiing, there are endless outdoor activities in Ouray. In the summertime, enjoy hiking through lush green forests to waterfalls and high alpine lakes. Some popular trails include the easy Baby Bathtubs Trail, the moderate Lower Cascade Falls Trail, and the challenging Blue Lakes Trail. If you would rather bring your bike on your outdoor adventures, you are in luck. Ouray has lots of opportunities for mountain biking through the San Juan Mountains. One of the most popular trails is the Plagueround Trail, which features beautiful mountain scenery. In the winter, enjoy the winter wonderland with adventures such as ice climbing, snowshoeing, and skiing.
Hot Springs
At the end of a long day of outdoor adventure, unwind in the town's hot springs. Known for their mineral-rich, sulfur-free waters, the hot springs are a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. There are multiple options to enjoy hot springs throughout Ouray. One of the most accessible is the Ouray Hot Springs Pool. The family-friendly spot, located right on Main Street, features multiple pools, water slides, and an adult-only area. For a more relaxing environment, head over to the hot springs at Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa. They offer a vapor cave, outdoor pools, and spa services. To enjoy the hot springs next to scenic outdoor views, check out Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs. They offer hot springs with scenic views, in a natural setting, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Historic Charm
Beyond its opportunities for exploring the outdoors, the town of Ouray itself is beautiful and has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. The town's rich history is evident in the historic Victorian architecture and mining history sites. Wander through the town exploring the historic buildings, such as the Wright Opera House. The historic venue hosts shows throughout the year and showcases the town's history. One of the best places to learn about the area's history is at the Ouray County Museum. Located in the former miners' hospital, the museum shows mining, ranching, and daily life in the town during the 19th century. The Ouray Alchemist Museum is a neat local attraction in town that shows a glimpse into the town's medical past.
Local Dining Scene
Ouray also boasts a lively dining scene, featuring numerous charming local restaurants and cafes to enjoy. For a tasty breakfast, visit Artisan Bakery & Cafe. Located right on Main Street, this is a great spot to grab some fresh pastries. For a morning cup of coffee, visit 1886 Coffee. The upscale coffee shop has a wide range of coffee options in a classy atmosphere. Also on Main Street, Brickhouse 737, is a charming spot that offers farm-fresh ingredients and American cuisine. Feel like a hearty meal? Look no further than the Outlaw Restaurant, known for steaks and grilled salmon.
Nearby Towns
While Ouray is a beautiful town to explore, a great aspect of Ouray's location is its proximity to other towns. Ouray is less than 10 miles from Ridgway. The hidden gem is the perfect town to continue exploring the Rocky Mountains. Ridgeway is a great spot for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping at Ridgway State Park. Ouray is also just 22 miles from Silverton, where you can enjoy hiking the Ice Lakes Trail, exploring the historic downtown, and driving the scenic Million Dollar Highway. If you feel up to venturing a bit further from Ouray, Ophir makes another great stop. The small mountain town is about an hour away and has stunning natural views that you will want to have a camera ready for!
Visiting Ouray
Overall, the stunning natural scenery, opportunities for outdoor adventure, historic charm, and local dining scene all make Ouray a great town to visit in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a nature lover or a history buff looking to explore the mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Walking down the streets in Ouray, you can enjoy the fresh mountain air while you grab a coffee from one of the cute cafes. You might even spot wildlife in town, such as deer or elk. If you visit one town in the Rockies, make it Ouray. The backdrop of jagged peaks, breathtaking waterfalls, alpine lakes, and lush forests will have you wondering why you did not visit the charming town sooner.
