OURAY PERIMETER TRAIL
Location: Ouray Perimeter Trail in Ouray, CO
Distance: Round trip is 5.6 miles (takes around 4-5 hours). If you want to cut it short, there are different options you can take to cut through the town or use the Ice Park Shortcut.
Highlights: This hike covers a lot of different scenery with four waterfalls, six bridges and more!
Notes: Starting elevation is 7,700’ and involves 1,600’ of elevation gain and loss. It is moderately challenging as you’ll climb and descend regularly.
Dogs: Yes, on leash.
Parking
The trail begins across from the Ouray Visitors’ Center on the east side of US 550. Parking space is limited. We also started the trail by parking at the Baby Bathtubs and connecting to the trailhead. If you look at the map, there are several places you can access. If you are staying at the RV Park, you can connect to the trailhead directly beside the swings and dumpster area.
The Trails
Like I mentioned, the trail is FULL of beauty! I’ve hiked this at different times of year and it always offers amazing views. Keep your eye out for wildlife too! You’ll pass through Box Canyon, several waterfalls, and more.
Be prepared
Be sure to wear hiking shoes and come prepared with food and water. You may want to have poles as there is a lot of climbing. In the warm months, be sure to bring bug spray as mosquitos were thriving in the water areas. And as always in Colorado, wear your SPF!
To learn more about Ouray, visit my blog post.