Are you ready to tackle the best hikes in Ouray, Colorado? I know I am! And I’m pumped to tell you all about it!
Visiting Ouray is one of my favorite places to travel for a number of reasons, but mostly because it’s gorgeous, is an outdoor recreation capital, and has a number of popular trails for all levels of hiking abilities.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most breathtaking Ouray hiking trails as well as provide some essential packing tips so you can have an unforgettable hiking experience.
Quick List: The Best Hikes In Ouray
About This Guide
Inside this guide to Ouray hiking, you’ll find info about:
– Diverse Trail Options: Hiking trails in Ouray, Colorado that cater to all skill levels, from easy, family-friendly strolls to challenging ascents.
– Essential Trail Details: Each trail provides key information, including location, duration, miles, elevation gain, and difficulty level.
– Comprehensive Descriptions: Detailed descriptions of each trail, offering a glimpse of what to expect and unique features you’ll discover.
– Facility Information: Know what to expect at the trailhead with details on restroom availability and parking options, helping you plan your logistics effectively.
– Nearby Hike Recommendations: Additional trails near Ouray, complete with driving distances.
– Helpful Map: A map curated specifically for the best hikes in and around Ouray, CO.
Map of the Best Ouray Hikes
1. Perimeter Trail
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 3+ hours
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles(loop)
- Elevation Gain: 1,499 feet
- Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous
- Facilities: Restrooms at the trailhead, ample parking at the Ouray Visitor Center.
The Perimeter Trail is a unique loop trail around the town of Ouray, CO. You can enter the trail at pretty much any point throughout town.
The trail is rugged and rocky. In the winter, it can be icy and slippery at certain points. Consider wearing spikes if you’ll be hiking in the winter.
The trail weaves up, down, and all around the town, offering stunning scenery of the Uncompahgre River and surrounding mountains.
If you only have time for one hike while visiting Ouray, I’d suggest the Perimeter Trail, as it’ll give you a wide variety of elevation gains, scenic views, and numerous waterfalls.
Pro-Tip! If coming from a lower elevation, bring along a canister of oxygen to huff while on a hike because the elevation of Ouray is 7,792 feet. You may struggle a bit with endurance, so take your time and stay hydrated!
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2. Box Canyon Falls Park
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Facilities: Restrooms located inside of the visitor center with plenty of parking and picnic tables.
- Entrance Fee: $5 (4- 17 Years Old), $7 (18 – 62 Years Old), $6 (62 – 74 Years Old), Free (75 + and 3 & under)
Upper Box Canon Falls Trail (“The High Bridge Trail”)
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Trail Length: 0.3 mile(out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 177 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
Connect the Upper Box Canon Falls from the Lower Box Canon Falls. On this moderate hike, you’ll climb some metal steps and then shimmy up a slightly steep rocky path that has a cable to help you along the way. It sounds worse than it really is.
At the top, you’ll cross a metal suspension bridge that will give you spectacular views of the mountains, downtown Ouray, and the narrow slot canyon below.
It spans over a narrow and deep gorge, so if you’re afraid of heights, skip this part of the hike.
It’s a great photo-op spot, but you can’t really see the waterfalls too well from here.
The bridge will then lead you to a tunnel, which was really neat! Originally built for a water pipeline project in the early 1900s, the tunnel has been abandoned since the 1950s.
The tunnel trail takes you somewhat to a dead end unless you want to continue on to the Perimeter Trail.
After crossing through the tunnel, return the way you came.
Lower Box Canon Falls Trail (“The Falls Trails”)
- Duration: 7 minutes
- Trail Length: 0.3 mile(out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 26 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
This part of the trail goes through a narrow box canyon first, where you can see the waterfalls up close from inside the slot canyon.
It’s so loud and so awesome!
Pro-Tip! Be sure to explore below the metal staircase and enjoy the view at the base of the falls where there’s a cute bench to relax and enjoy the serenity.
Additional Interpretive Trail in Box Canyon Falls Park
- The Native Plant Loop: Great hike for natural lovers who enjoy learning about plants. It’s a short, easy walk that includes plant markers that help to identify local species. Plus, it’s the only trail that does not involve climbing steps. You’ll walk straight into the trail from the visitor center.
3. Baby Bathtubs Trail
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 1 hour
- Trail Length: 0.7 miles (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Facilities: Very limited parking and no restrooms at the trailhead.
The trail begins near the Amphitheater campground road, or you can combine this as part of the Perimeter Trail.
The parking is very limited so go early in the morning.
The short hike will take you along a bedrock creek bed where you can boulder your way up and down through the canyon or continue walking along the top.
The unique rock formations carved out from the stream resemble “baby bathtubs,” hence the name.
We enjoyed sunbathing on the rocks and sticking our feet into the freezing water to cool off.
This trail is great for families with children who enjoy playing in the streams. Just be careful of the steep drop-offs at some points along the trail.
Pro-Tip! Bring bug spray! There are lots of gnats in places where the riverbed has dried up. Also, wear hiking boots, but bring along sandals in case you want to play in the potholes. A trekking pole is also great for assisting when crossing slippery rocks.
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4. Bear Creek Trail
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Trail Length: 4.4 miles (round trip) to Grizzly Bear Mine and 8 miles (round trip) to Yellow Jacket Mine
- Elevation Gain: 1,500+ feet to Grizzly Bear Mine and 2,600+ feet to Yellow Jacket Mine
- Difficulty: Moderate- Strenuous
- Facilities: Limited parking (pullout on the east side of the highway), no restrooms at the trailhead.
The trailhead is located off Hwy 550 near the Bear Creek Falls overlook.
This is a longer hike and is considered a difficult trail.
It starts off with a quad-burning series of steep switchbacks along the ledges of the cliff.
You’ll gain an elevation of 1,000 feet in the first mile. What makes this trail unique is the abandoned mines that showcase Ouray’s mining history and resilience.
On this trail, you’ll discover remnants of the old Grizzly Bear Mine and the Yellow Jacket Mine.
Pro-Tip! Practice extreme caution while hiking the Bear Creek National Recreation Trail. The hiking trails along the cliffs are narrow, long, extremely high, and have steep drop-offs. Dogs are not recommended on this hike due to these dangers.
5. Ouray Ice Park Loop
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Trail Length: 2.5 miles (loop)
- Elevation Gain: 485 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Facilities: Limited parking, no restrooms at the trailhead
This Ouray hike is located on the south side of town off Camp Bird Road.
It goes around a section of the Uncompahgre Gorge where people can ice climb during the chilly winter months.
But in the summer, it’s a great spot for a quick and easy hike with some stunning views of the gorge and the San Juan Mountains.
You can also watch climbers tackle the famous Ouray Via Ferrata, which is one of the top Ferrata’s in Colorado.
6. Lower Cascade Falls (“Cascade Falls Park”)
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Trail Length: 0.2 miles (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 75 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Facilities: Small parking lot, no restrooms.
The trail is super easy to get to (as in an 11-minute walk from town).
It’s literally on a back street in downtown Ouray. Drive east up 8th Avenue to where it dead ends. You can’t miss it.
You’ll wonder if you’re at the right spot. Look for the shelter and the bench behind it, then head straight uphill.
It’s not a long hike, but it’s a steep one.
Allow for enough time to sunbathe on the rocks, splash in the Cascade Creek, and explore the surrounding areas at the base of the waterfall.
Pro-Tip! Bring a rain jacket if you want to get up close and feel the spray of the falls!
7. Chief Ouray Mine via Upper Cascade Falls
- Location: Ouray, Colorado
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Trail Length: 4.3 miles (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 1,955 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Facilities: Parking and restrooms are located in the Amphitheater Campground.
This hike is not for the faint of heart (or knees), so bring your trekking poles.
The trail climbs quickly and steeply, especially in the beginning, with switchbacks taking you up the amphitheater wall.
It is narrow with steep drop-offs, so you’ll be a single file for most, if not all, of the trail.
This one is a workout for sure, but the grind is worth it!
You’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and the secluded Upper Cascade Falls.
After crossing the creek, take the trail to the bunkhouse, then go through the bunkhouse to the other side.
Continue along the path, and the next building is the mine building. Then, descend a little more, and you’ll come upon the old mine shaft.
Pro-Tip! Crossing Cascade Creek can be tricky if high water or ice is present. Yet another good reason to pack trekking poles.
8. Gray Copper Trail
- Location: 8 miles from Ouray
- Duration: 4 hours
- Trail Length: 5.7 (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 2,050 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Facilities: Limited parking, no restrooms at the trailhead
This Colorado trail is about a 17-minute drive from downtown Ouray and begins off of the Million Dollar Highway.
Pack lots of hiking snacks because this one’s a doozy!
It’s a long, steep climb for the first mile along an old mining road.
The trail is forested with no views but then eventually opens up. At around the 2.5-mile mark, you’ll then be able to see 360 views of the surrounding peaks.
Trail conditions are a bit rocky with some loose scree (small loose stones).
Nearby Hikes Within 1 Hour Drive from Ouray
Wanting more trail options? Check out these hikes located just an hour drive from Ouray.
From cascading waterfalls to alpine lakes and meadows, these trails offer diverse landscapes and challenging experiences for those who have time for more adventure.
Ice Lake (bottom) and Island Lake (Top)
- Location: 25 miles from Ouray (near Silverton)
- Duration: 5+hours
- Trail Length: 8.3 miles (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 2,877 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Facilities: Limited parking that gets crowded during busy times of year. No restrooms.
Conquer 2 hikes in 1 with this beautiful lollipop loop trail!
This hike can be very difficult if you’re not used to hiking at high elevations because the trail is pretty much straight up the entire way.
Every foot of elevation gains is worth the views though.
It’s a beautiful hike with lakes, waterfalls, creek crossings, meadows and 360 degree panoramic views.
Pro-Tip! Packing trekking poles and a water filtration system. There are plenty of water sources available to refill but you’ll need to filter it first to be safe.
Lower, Middle, and Upper Blue Lakes via Blue Lakes Trailhead
- Location: 23.8 miles from Ouray (near Ridgway)
- Duration: 5+hours
- Trail Length: 8.7 miles (out & back)
- Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Facilities: Parking lot at trailhead with plenty of parking along the road. Restroom “outhouse” located at the trailhead.
I highly recommend doing this hike in late summer or early fall (July/August/September). The road leading to the trailhead is bumpy with lots of pot holes and loose rocks.
In winter, the road is pretty sketchy if covered with snow. Plus, you will need snowshoes, avalanche safety gear and training just in case. It’s always best to be prepared.
It takes about 1 hour 40 minutes to reach the Lower Blue Lake and then another 45 minutes to an hour to reach Upper Blue Lake.
Hiking to the lower lake takes the longest but is relatively easy. The middle and upper lake are located much closer together and the trail begins to get steeper as you start climbing to the 2nd lake.
Elevation of Blue Lakes
- Trailhead: 9,350 feet
- Lower Blue Lake: 10,940 feet
- Middle Blue Lake: 11,534 feet
- Upper Blue Lake: 11,750 feet
Pro-Tip! The elevation of this hike is really high so if you’re not used to hiking high altitude trails then it’ll be extremely tough. Bring an oxygen canister like this one to help push you along.
What Is The Best Time To Go Hiking in Ouray?
Late spring to early fall, spanning June to September would be the best time to hike in Ouray.
During this period, the weather is milder, and most hiking trails are accessible.
July is usually the time you’ll start to see wildflowers blooming and the meadows really spring to life!
July and August are the most popular months for hiking, as temperatures are warmer, and high-altitude trails are snow-free.
Keep in mind that higher-elevation trails may still have snow lingering into early summer, so check trail conditions before planning your hike.
September and October are great if you’re into leaf peeping.
If you enjoy winter activities, Ouray also offers winter hiking and snowshoeing opportunities, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow-covered trails.
Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| January | 24°F |
| February | 28°F |
| March | 35°F |
| April | 43°F |
| May | 53°F |
| June | 63°F |
| July | 71°F |
| August | 69°F |
| September | 61°F |
| October | 49°F |
| November | 35°F |
| December | 26°F |
The Ouray Trail Group
The Ouray Trail Group is a community of outdoor enthusiasts united by a shared passion for exploring the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Ouray, Colorado.
Comprising locals and visitors alike, this tight-knit group is dedicated to the preservation of Ouray area hiking trails.
They also organize regular hiking excursions, fostering camaraderie and a love for the great outdoors.
Final Thoughts: Hiking In Ouray
Ouray’s hiking trails offer a diverse range of experiences, from family-friendly strolls to challenging ascents.
As you tackle your next adventure, use this guide as a valuable resource to make the most of your time in this outdoor haven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Dogs Allowed on the Ouray Perimeter Trail?
- Yes, dogs are allowed on the Ouray Perimeter Trail. Ensure they are leashed and be mindful of other trail users.
Can You Hike from Ouray to Telluride?
- No, there’s no direct hiking trail from Ouray to Telluride. You’d need to drive or take alternative transportation between the two towns.
Is Ouray, Colorado Beautiful?
- Absolutely! Ouray is a historic town with stunning mountain views, aspen groves, hot springs, charming shops & restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts and mountain bikers can experience true adventure in this quaint mountain town.
Where is Ouray?
- Ouray is located in southwestern Colorado, nestled in the San Juan Mountains. It’s about 70 miles south of Grand Junction and 330 miles southwest of Denver.
How Do You Pronounce Ouray?
- It’s pronounced, “you-ray.” Just like saying “you” and then “ray.” Easy once you know! Like, “Hooray! We’re going to Ouray!”
