Looking for things to do in Ouray, Colorado? Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray offers a perfect mix of breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventure that promises an unforgettable visit.

From the rejuvenating hot springs to the scenic hiking trails, this charming mountain town is a sanctuary for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Just be sure you’ve booked a great place to stay in Ouray to really make the most of your getaway.

Dive into this guide to discover the best activities and attractions that will make your trip to Ouray truly memorable.

Here’s our top 15 suggestions, regardless of the season!

1. Experience the Ouray Hot Springs

A trip to Ouray wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Ouray Hot Springs. Open year-round, these hot springs are a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the picturesque backdrop of the San Juan Mountains.

Not only do the hot springs provide a serene escape, but they also offer numerous health benefits. The Ute people have utilized these hot springs for thousands of years due to their healing properties, underscoring the medicinal and cultural significance of these pools. The mineral-rich waters can improve circulation, alleviate stress, and promote overall well-being.

The Ouray Hot Springs offers a range of amenities to enhance your relaxation experience. Visitors can enjoy multiple temperature pools that cater to different preferences, a lap pool for those looking to swim, and an adult-only area for a more tranquil escape. For added fun, the hot springs feature exciting elements, such as water slides and a rock wall, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure seekers.

So, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family, the Ouray Hot Springs promise a relaxing and revitalizing experience.

2. Hike the Ouray Perimeter Trail

For those who love to explore the great outdoors, the Ouray Perimeter Trail is a must-do. This 5.6-mile hike offers a perfect blend of moderate challenge and stunning scenery. As you traverse the trail, you’ll encounter four majestic waterfalls, each more breathtaking than the last. The trail also features bridges and geological points of interest, making it a fascinating journey for nature enthusiasts.

Good footwear and trekking poles are recommended for this hike, as the terrain can be rugged. The trail reaches a maximum elevation of 8,500 feet, providing scenic mountain views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With multiple marked exit points, you can choose to hike the entire trail or enjoy it in segments.

Hiking the trail allows visitors to connect with the natural world and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.

3. Drive the Million Dollar Highway

If you’re a fan of the open road, twisting around the iconic Million Dollar Highway is the ideal way to experience the breathtaking mountain views up close. Known for its thrilling curves and stunning views, this highway offers a journey like no other.

The best time to embark on this gorgeous road trip is from late spring to fall, typically between May and October. As you traverse the highway, you’ll reach elevations over 11,000 feet, particularly at Red Mountain Pass, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. With its combination of breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping turns, the Million Dollar Highway is a must-do adventure for any visitor to Ouray.

Despite its reputation as one of the most perilous roads in the United States, the Million Dollar Highway attracts countless adventure seekers each year. Noteworthy stops along the way include Bear Creek Falls and the Switzerland of America lookout.

4. Visit Box Cañon Falls Park

One of Ouray’s most stunning natural attractions is Box Cañon Falls Park, a breathtaking natural wonder. Here, you’ll find a dramatic waterfall that plunges 285 feet through a narrow quartzite canyon. The powerful cascades of Canyon Creek create a mesmerizing display of rushing water that is sure to leave you in awe. The narrow gorge provides breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls that are a photographer’s dream.

The park is also family-friendly, offering facilities for picnicking and easy access to the falls. The best time to visit Box Cañon Falls is during the summer and early fall months, from June to October.

5. Go Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park

For the adrenaline junkies, Ouray Ice Park offers an unparalleled ice climbing experience. With over 200 climbing routes, the park caters to climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. The ice park is open during the winter months, from December to March, when the frozen waterfalls create a stunning backdrop for your climb. Ouray Ice Park promises an exhilarating adventure for all skill levels.

Many visitors choose to hire a guiding service and take lessons to enhance their climbing skills. For those with their own equipment, access to the park is free of charge. With the opportunity to hire a local guide or attend seasonal clinics, you can improve your techniques, meet the climbing community, and make the most of your ice climbing experience in Ouray.

6. Explore Historic Ghost Towns

Step back in time and explore the historic ghost towns around Ouray, highlighting the region's rich mining history. These abandoned towns offer a fascinating glimpse into Colorado’s rich mining history. As you wander through the remnants of structures, you’ll feel the echoes of the past and the stories of the miners who once called these towns home. Accessing these ghost towns often requires a high-clearance vehicle or on foot, adding an element of adventure to your exploration.

Some notable historic landmarks include the Larson Brothers Mine and the original structures in Ironton. These sites showcase the region’s rich history and provide a unique opportunity to connect with the past.

7. Enjoy a Jeep Tour in the San Juan Mountains

For an immersive experience in the breathtaking scenery of the San Juan Mountains, consider taking a Jeep tour that offers scenic mountain views. These tours provide a thrilling way to explore the rugged terrain and towering peaks of the San Juans. Whether you choose a safari-style 4×4 tour or opt to rent a Jeep and explore at your own pace, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone.

Renting a Jeep allows you to drive backroads like Imogene Pass or Black Bear Pass, discovering hidden gems and panoramic vistas along the way. The typical cost for renting a Jeep starts around $200, depending on the duration and model. The best time for Jeep tours is during the summer and fall, from July to September, when the weather is ideal for off-road adventures.

For families, private Jeep tours provide a comfortable and customized experience. These tours cater to specific interests and allow you to explore at your preferred pace. With custom-built tour vehicles and family-friendly 4×4 routes, Jeep tours in Ouray offer a fun and memorable outing for adventurers of all ages.

8. Relax at Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Vapor Cave

For a truly serene experience, visit the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Vapor Cave. This spa features a unique vapor cave with a soaking pool maintained at a soothing 109 degrees. The tranquil environment is designed for relaxation, allowing only guests aged 12 and older to ensure a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Day guests can access the hot springs from 9 AM to 9 PM, making it a convenient option for those looking to relax during their visit to Ouray. With its welcoming atmosphere and therapeutic waters, the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa offers a rejuvenating retreat in the heart of the mountains.

9. Shop and Dine in Downtown Ouray

Downtown Ouray, particularly Main Street, offers a delightful shopping and dining experience that caters to a wide range of tastes. The town offers a diverse range of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, many of which utilize farm-to-table principles to ensure the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal or a casual bite, Ouray’s eateries have something to satisfy every palate.

Shopping in downtown Ouray is equally enchanting, with unique shops offering artisan products and locally crafted goods. Supporting local businesses not only benefits the economy but also offers a unique shopping experience that you won’t find elsewhere.

From delicious BBQ with mountain views at The Smokehouse at Ouray River Resort to exploring the charming streets lined with boutique shops, downtown Ouray is a must-visit destination for shopaholics and meat lovers alike.

10. Taste Local Craft Beer

Ouray, Colorado, is a paradise for craft beverage enthusiasts, boasting some of the best craft beer and spirits per capita in Colorado. Mr. Grumpy Pants Brewery, AKA Ourayle House Brewery, offers a variety of bold craft beers, catering to different tastes and preferences. Additionally, Ouray Brewery is known for its excellent taps, delicious food, and stunning rooftop views that enhance the tasting experience.

In addition to breweries, Ouray features an outstanding distillery and two local wine facilities, providing a diverse range of drinking experiences. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or a casual sipper, Ouray’s expressive community and perfect blend of local flavors make it the ideal spot to enjoy a mountain fresh brewski.

11. Attend the Ouray Ice Festival

Every January, Ouray comes alive with the excitement of the Ouray Ice Festival. This annual event attracts climbers and enthusiasts from around the world, offering a range of activities and competitions. The festival features clinics, gear demonstrations, and competitions for all ages, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone.

Evenings are filled with presentations and movies featuring renowned climbers, providing inspiration and entertainment. The festival culminates in the famous Petzl Party, a dance party held on Saturday night that brings the community together for a night of celebration.

With shuttle services provided for festival-goers, attending the Ouray Ice Festival is a seamless and unforgettable experience.

12. Go Horseback Riding

For a family-friendly adventure, consider going horseback riding in Ouray. The tours cater to all skill levels, including kids as young as five years old. Whether you opt for a one-hour beginner ride or a more adventurous half-day excursion, horseback riding in Ouray provides a unique way to explore the scenic Uncompahgre National Forest.

The rides take you through diverse terrain, including sagebrush flats, forests, and panoramic vistas. Family-owned companies prioritize creating memorable experiences and often pair riders with the same horse for repeat visits.

With a focus on building a bond between rider and horse, horseback riding in Ouray, CO is a fun and enriching outdoor activity for the whole family. Nobody comes more highly recommended than Ouray Horseback Adventures, offering private and group tours that range from one to four hours long and accommodate every rider's experience level.

13. Cross-Country Skiing to Ironton

For winter sports enthusiasts, cross-country skiing to Ironton is a must. Located just 9 miles south of Ouray, Ironton Park offers groomed trails with a mix of easy and challenging routes. The trails are marked and set with a Nordic track, typically becoming available around November each year.

With trails and routes suitable for beginners and experts alike, the stunning views and varied terrain make cross-country skiing to Ironton an unforgettable experience.

14. Discover Local History at Ouray County Historical Museum

Delve into the rich history of Ouray at the Ouray County Historical Museum. Located in the original St. Joseph’s Miners’ Hospital, established in 1886, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time. With 38 exhibits spread across three floors, visitors can explore various aspects of frontier history, from mining to everyday life in the late 1800s.

Exploring the nearby ghost towns offers additional insight into the lives of miners who faced harsh conditions while seeking wealth.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, the Ouray County Historical Museum is a treasure trove of local history.

15. Climb the Ouray Via Ferrata

For a thrilling climbing adventure, test your skills on the Ouray Via Ferrata. This route in the Uncompahgre Gorge features solid quartzite, blocky sandstone, and crumbly tuffa, providing a challenging and exciting climb. The route is equipped with steel cables, ensuring safety as you navigate the rugged terrain.

Guides are recommended for novices, as their extensive knowledge of the San Juan Mountains ensures a safe and adventurous experience, as well as providing necessary gear and route information. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner, the Ouray Via Ferrata offers an exhilarating way to explore the vast natural beauty of the area.

Planning Your Trip to Ouray

Ouray, Colorado, is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer and early fall are perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures, while winter offers excellent opportunities for ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. To ensure a smooth trip, plan ahead and book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.

Delve into the region’s rich mining history and natural wonders, including the stunning Box Canyon and the picturesque Uncompahgre Gorge. Packing accordingly is essential—bring layers, sturdy hiking boots, and any necessary equipment for your chosen activities. A guidebook or map can be invaluable for navigating the town’s historic landmarks, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Take time to immerse yourself in the local culture. Explore the vibrant community, charming streets, and unique shops and restaurants that make Ouray a truly special destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Ouray promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking views and rich history.

Dive into Ouray and Its Natural Wonders

Ouray, Colorado, is a treasure trove of adventures and natural beauty, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From the soothing waters of Ouray Hot Springs to the thrilling ice climbing routes at Ouray Ice Park, the town provides a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels.

With its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant community, Ouray is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, offering a diverse range of luxurious accommodations to suit every taste.

No matter where you choose to stay, the scenic drives, historic ghost towns, and rich history only further enhance the allure of this charming mountain town. As you explore and immerse yourself, you’ll discover why Ouray is a must-visit destination. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and experience the magic of Ouray for yourself.