Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray, Colorado is a mountain paradise packed with adventure, relaxation, and small-town charm. Whether you’re visiting in summer for wildflower hikes or in winter for world-class ice climbing, here are the top things to do in Ouray, CO for every season.
Having spent over two months each year exploring Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains in recent years, I’ve personally hiked the trails, soaked in the hot springs, and experienced the best this incredible mountain town offers. Drawing on these hands-on adventures and local insights, I’ve compiled this list of the top things to do in Ouray for any visitor wanting to make the most of their trip. When I’m craving a mountain getaway, the San Juans are always my first choice—let me show you why they should be yours too.
1. Hike the Perimeter Trail
One of the best ways to see Ouray is on the Perimeter Trail. This 6-mile loop circles the town from above, passing waterfalls, forests, and scenic overlooks. It’s a must for hikers looking to experience Ouray’s stunning natural beauty.
2. Cool off on the Baby Bath Tubs Hike
For a family-friendly adventure, check out the Baby Bath Tubs Trail. This short hike features smooth granite pools perfect for wading and cooling off in the summer. I wouldn’t call this a swimming hole, but it’s a nice and easy-to-access spot for a little dip.This hike can be done as a short detour from the Ouray Perimeter Trail.
3. Conquer the Ouray Via Ferrata
Experience an adrenaline rush on the Ouray Via Ferrata, a thrilling climbing route along the cliffs above the Uncompahgre Gorge. Guided tours and gear rentals are available for all skill levels.
4. Take on Gold Mountain Via Ferrata
For even more excitement, try the Gold Mountain Via Ferrata—a newer, more advanced route with incredible views and challenging traverses. This via ferrata route offers a very different climbing experience than the Ouray Via Ferrata. The views climb higher for a nice vantage point of Ouray and you can tackle the second longest suspension bridge in the US. It’s beginner-friendly as well and fun for the whole family!
Click here to book your Gold Mountain Via Ferrata Experience (use code “followtiffsjourney” for discount)
5. Explore Box Canon Falls
Don’t miss Box Canon Falls, a powerful waterfall thundering through a narrow canyon. The easy walk and dramatic scenery make it one of Ouray’s top attractions year-round.
6. Try Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park (Winter)
If you visit in winter, the Ouray Ice Park is a world-famous destination for ice climbing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, you can take a lesson or watch the pros at the annual Ice Festival.
Looking to join a Women’s Intro to Ice Climbing Retreat in Ouray? FollowTiffsJourney hosts annual women’s ice climbing group trips and you can learn more here. Click here to join the waitlist for Jan 2026 dates.
7. Soak at Wiesbaden Hot Springs
Relax and unwind at Wiesbaden Hot Springs, a historic spot with mineral-rich pools and a unique vapor cave in the heart of downtown Ouray. Perfect after a day of adventure!
Pro Tip: For a more natural soak at a larger vicinity, head to Orvis Hot Springs just 10 minutes out of town.. Many locals prefer Orvis over the Ouray Hot Springs Pool and it’s my personal favorite as well—maybe more than Wiesbaden.
8. Feed the Coy Fish at the Pond
Bet you didn’t know a mountain town would have a coy fish pond! Take a peaceful break and feed the koi at the scenic pond near the hot springs—a fun stop for kids and adults alike. You can purchase a bag of fish food at the Ouray Hot Springs lobby.
9. Treat Yourself at Mouses Chocolates
Indulge your sweet tooth at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee, famous for their decadent truffles and delicious “scrap cookies.” This chocolate shop offers my favorite Belgian dark hot chocolate drink in the winter, and huckleberry ice cream in the summer! A must-visit for chocolate lovers!
10. Swing by Ouray Brewery
Grab a local craft beer and take a seat on the swinging bar stools at Ouray Brewery’s rooftop patio, with stunning mountain views. The summer menu offers more selections than winter—the fried chicken sliders were delicious!
11. Rent a Jeep for Off-Roading
Rent a Jeep and hit the legendary 4×4 trails around Ouray, like Yankee Boy Basin and Imogene Pass. The rugged San Juan Mountains are an off-roader’s dream!
12. Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Experience one of America’s most scenic drives on the Million Dollar Highway (US 550). The route between Ouray and Silverton offers jaw-dropping views and thrilling switchbacks, especially beautiful in the fall. This road can be scary for those with a fear of heights and labeled as scary because there are no rails and the cliff drop-offs are steep. Drive carefully!
13. Snap a Photo at the Switzerland of America Sign
Capture the iconic Switzerland of America sign for the perfect Ouray photo-op. The sign is just two minutes above town at the beginning of the Million Dollar Highway. The mountain backdrop is unbeatable with views of the Uncompahgre Gorge!
14. Explore Downtown Ouray
Stroll down historic Main Street, lined with Victorian buildings, boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafes. Here are some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town:
- Gold Belt Bar and Grill: The pastrami sandwich here was delicious!
- Maggie’s Kitchen: Probably your best best for casual and budget-friendly burgers
- Ouray Brewery: All around good food. Good wings. Good sliders. Good seltzers.
- Colorado Boy: Their hours on Google aren’t always right but if they are open for breakfast, they have a great bang-for-your-buck breakfast burrito!
- The Western Hotel: The espresso martini and ambiance is worth it even if you can’t afford to stay here
- Brickhouse 737: While I haven’t personally ate here, it’s Ouray’s “fancy” restaurant if you’re looking for something nicer
- 1886 Coffee inside the historic Beaumont Hotel: tea + pastries
- Artisan Bakery: Personally, the pastries were good but not great for the price
15. Visit Red Mountain Pass
Take a drive up Red Mountain Pass for more breathtaking scenery and access to hiking trails, wildflower meadows, and historic mining sites; however, for even more unique views, skip Red Mountain Pass and drive to Corkscrew Pass which offers the best views of Red Mountain.
Click here to read about Red Mountain Pass vs How to see Red Mountain via Corkscrew Pass.
In a Nutshell: Things to Do Near Ouray
With so many incredible things to do in Ouray, Colorado, and even more adventures just beyond town, it’s easy to see why this area is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking scenic trails and relaxing in natural hot springs to exploring nearby mountain passes and charming small towns, Ouray and its surroundings offer endless opportunities for adventure in every season.
Where to Stay in Ouray
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FAQ: Things to Do in Ouray, Colorado
How do you spend a day in Ouray?
Start with a hike (Perimeter Trail or Baby Bath Tubs), explore Box Canon Falls, grab lunch downtown, soak in a hot spring, and finish with a scenic drive or brewery visit.
Is Ouray, Colorado worth visiting?
Absolutely! Ouray offers world-class hiking, unique adventures, relaxing hot springs, and stunning mountain scenery year-round.
Is Ouray Hot Springs free
No, the Ouray Hot Springs Pool charges an admission fee. For a quieter experience, try Wiesbaden or Orvis Hot Springs.
Is the drive from Ouray to Telluride scary?
The drive includes mountain roads with steep drop-offs and switchbacks, especially on the Million Dollar Highway. It’s beautiful but requires caution, especially in winter.
Ready for your own adventure?
No matter the season, Ouray, Colorado, is packed with unforgettable experiences. Start planning your trip and see why this mountain town is a must-visit for outdoor lovers!
Tiff, the owner and author of Follow Tiff’s Journey, is a California/ Colorado-based adventurer and outdoor connoisseur who divides her heart between the Eastern Sierra Mountains and the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Despite her fear of heights, she’s become a seasoned mountaineer, ultralight hiking and backcountry camping enthusiast, expert road trip planner, and a fervent explorer of alpine lakes, natural hot springs, and sandstone canyons.
With 10 years of experience exploring the outdoors, her blog is your go-to source for all things wilderness, offering invaluable insights and pro tips, essential gear recommendations, and awe-inspiring stories from her adventures.
Join Tiff on her quest to share the wonders of nature and inspire others to follow their own path in the great outdoors.