Travel Guide: Ouray, CO aka Switzerland of America
Ouray, Colorado, also know as Switzerland of America, is by far one of the most underrated places in Colorado. I was headed to Telluride in my van when I saw that Ouray had several hot springs. I decided to go check it out before heading to Telluride. I loved it so much I ended up staying for several days because there was so much to do, beautiful views, and surprisingly good food. It is still one of my top places to visit Colorado in the Spring through Fall months.
About Ouray
Located in the heart of the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Ouray is a small town known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation activities and hot springs. With a population of just over 1,000 people, Ouray is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The town is surrounded by towering peaks and rugged mountain ranges.
Ouray is a hub for outdoor recreation offering many activities. Outdoor activities include:
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Rock Climbing
Via Ferrata
Ice Climbing
Snowshoeing
ATV
Jeeping
Ouray’s historic downtown features charming Victorian-era buildings, unique shops, and a variety of dining options. The town is walking distance to everything you’d like to enjoy. Don’t be surprised if you see wildlife around!
Downtown Ouray
What to do in Ouray, CO
While it may be small in size, Ouray has so much to offer for the entire family. You can enjoy the breathtaking scenery by many outdoor activities or by driving along the main scenic trails and roads including the iconic Million Dollar Highway.
Hot Springs
Ouray has many natural hot springs—all extremely unique and different from the other. Below I share the three I’ve experienced. To learn more about all the hot springs, visit here.
Ouray Hot Springs
Ouray Hot Springs is by far the most popular and best choice for families. It’s a huge facility surrounded by stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. The complex consist of several different pools, including a lap pool, a hot pool, and children’s/activity pool. The water temperatures range from 74 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the pool. The Ouray Hot Springs complex also includes a water slide, a climbing wall, and snack bar.
It’s unique in that it does not have a sulfer smell because of the water’s mineral content and geology. Ouray is located along a large geological lift at the head of the Uncompahgre Valley. The pressure and heat from this activity is resulted in a series of clean and odorless hot springs. The water is primarily composed of sodium, calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate.
Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Vapor Cave
Wiesbaden Hot Springs is by far my favorite of all three mentioned on this post. It’s a beautifully-set spa and lodge located a few streets up the hill from Main Street. It’s small, simple, and a great place to relax for the day. It’s important to call ahead and reserve your spot. When you walk into the lodge you’re greeted by staff and shown the downstairs spa area where you can access the Vapor Cave. They have all the amenities—showers, bathrooms, changing rooms, etc. The Vapor Cave is a natural underground hot spring that is a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. Once you open the door you transform into a different world of relaxation in a naturally occuring steam bath. The cave is made up of a series of underground chambers that are filled with mineral-rich water featuring a 108 degree Fahrenheit soaking pool. Once you’ve heated up, you can also use their outdoor swimming pool surrounded by stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. They also have outdoor private soaking pools you can rent.
Orvis Hot Springs
Orvis Hot Springs is located 9 miles from downtown Ouray in Ridgway. It is a clothing-optional outdoor hot spring utopia that boasts ten soaking areas with natural, free flowing water ranging from 65 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit. All of the baths, pools, and tubs are different sizes and temperatures. Some feature beautiful pond-like themes. There is one heated indoor pool.
Orvis Hot Springs feels like you stepped back in time as you see the photos of how the land and pools evolved. This site was known to be used by the Ute people. It’s a unique experience to imagine all those who have enjoyed the benefits of the waters through the decades.
Hiking in Ouray, CO
Box Canyon is a favorite for the incredible views and easy access!
This is a short “walk” from the trailhead and a great one to do with the kids!
This is a moderately difficult trail that requires a decent amount of climbing. It offers incredible views and you get to see so many natural wonders including four waterfalls!
Ouray Via Ferrata
Ouray Via Ferrata is by far one of my favorite outdoor activities in Colorado. It offers amazing exercise, stunning views, and the perfect amount of challenge.
What to know about Ouray Via Ferrata:
If you’ve never climbed Ouray Via Ferrata, it’s advised to go with a guide. I had an excellent experience with Basecamp Ouray. I was traveling solo and was paired in a group with two other climbers to save money. We had a great time together with our guide and highly recommend it!
It’s best to start first thing in the morning so you’re not baking in the sun once it hits overhead.
Because you’re climbing over the river, there are a lot of mosquitos. Be sure to spray yourself with bug spray.
Pack a backpack with water and a small snack.
If you’re afraid of heights, be sure that you’re able to handle the route. You can walk by it and look before committing.
Where To Stay in Ouray
Boutique historic hotels line downtown Ouray, Colorado. They are all unique and I imagine offer a unique stay! In addition to the boutique hotels, there is a lot of camping and hot springs stays as mentioned above. We’ve always stayed in our camper van so I’ll share the details below.
4J+1+1 RV Park
4J+1+1 RV Park is located downtown Ouray and is walking distance to everything so no need to get in your car once you park! It offers great amenities and has on-site showers. This is an excellent place if you’re looking to stay long term especially in an RV or big rig. They have different sites for different vehicle types.
Camping
There are ample campgrounds surrounding Ouray including Amphitheater Campground, right off Ouray Perimeter Trail. If you head up 361 County Road, there are several excellent campgrounds. I stayed one night at Angel Creek Campground and the views were stunning. It was June 2nd so the campgrounds hadn’t opened for the season and there were maybe 3 other groups in the campground.
Dining in Ouray, CO
The town may be small but they offer some great dining options!
Red Mountain Brewing
This is my go-to spot! The staff, beer, food, and views can’t be beat! They proudly serve Gold Canyon Ranch Colorado all natural beef, and all natural Red Bird’s Ranch Colorado Chicken, as well as local organic produce from Buckhorn Farms, Ela Family Farms, and Gunnison Riber Farms. I love their chicken fingers and fries.
Timberline Deli of Ouray
Don’t miss out on their incredible fresh, homemade donuts. We usually grab a coffee and donuts to enjoy before setting out for our adventures. We’ve spotted a lot of wildlife grazing in the side yard in the quiet mornings.
Brickhouse 737
I would say this is probably the nicest restaurant in town offering fresh cuisine. They have a downstairs and upstairs porch that offers beautiful views of the mountains. The historic building has cool features such as a food elevator. I would highly recommend!
Ouray Brewery
Ouray Brewery is located in the heart of town and has a large rooftop patio to take in the views. This appears to be the busiest place everytime we’ve visited Ouray.