How to Plan a Ski Trip to Ouray, Colorado

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s awe-inspiring San Juan Mountains lies Ouray, a picturesque town that effortlessly combines historic charm with natural beauty.

Often referred to as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a destination that promises both adventure and relaxation amidst its stunning alpine surroundings. Skiing is among the top ativities enjoyed here.

Here, visitors can wander amidst buildings dating back to the late 19th century, including landmarks like the Beaumont Hotel, the Ouray City Hall and Walsh Library, and Wright’s Opera House, all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The town’s proximity to the Million Dollar Highway, part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, makes it an ideal starting point for scenic drives through the mountains.

In addition to its outdoor adventures, Ouray is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The town is home to several hot springs, where visitors can unwind after a day of exploration.

And when it comes to dining and lodging, Ouray offers a range of options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to upscale restaurants serving hearty meals to replenish energy after a day in the great outdoors.

Ouray is a place where every visit promises new discoveries and unforgettable experiences in one of Colorado’s most scenic settings.

When to Go

The best time to visit Ouray largely depends on what you’re looking to do. For those keen on experiencing warm days and cooler nights, along with the chance to witness thunderstorms, the summer months (July and August) are ideal.

This is also when the wildflowers in Yankee Boy Basin are in full bloom. Autumn brings cool, clear weather with occasional rains, perfect for scenic drives and hikes.

Winters, long and cold, are a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts, with considerable snowfall making it great for skiing and snowboarding.

Spring, especially late spring, offers mild temperatures and is usually the driest time of the year, ideal for outdoor activities without the winter chill or summer crowds.

Where to Stay

Ouray offers a variety of charming accommodations, each with its unique character and amenities. Here are three top places to consider for your stay:

Black Bear Manor

This cozy bed and breakfast, located in the town center, is perfect for those seeking a comfortable and intimate stay.

Black Bear Manor is renowned for its daily breakfast feast, outdoor hot tubs, and a third-floor observatory offering stunning mountain views.

Each of the nine guest rooms is uniquely decorated, with options for queen or king-size beds, private baths, and some with fireplaces. The inn also provides complimentary Wi-Fi and a happy hour with live music.

Ouray Chalet Inn

For those looking for affordability without compromising on location, the Ouray Chalet Inn is an excellent choice.

Situated on Main Street, this family-owned motel is within walking distance of many local attractions. It offers a range of clean and spacious rooms with amenities like mini-refrigerators, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi.

Guests can also enjoy free on-site parking and a convenient grab-n-go breakfast, making it an ideal base for exploring Ouray.

Hotel Ouray

For a touch of history, Hotel Ouray, serving guests since 1893, is a delightful option. It blends historical features with modern comfort.

The hotel offers 14 uniquely decorated rooms and suites, each furnished with antique pieces and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and mini-refrigerators.

It’s located downtown, providing easy access to local attractions. The hotel is exclusive to guests aged 12 and older, ensuring a peaceful stay. In addition, they offer handmade soaps and lotions crafted in Ouray for a unique touch.

Where to Eat

Ouray offers a delightful array of dining options to suit various tastes and preferences. Here are three top restaurants to consider:

Outlaw Restaurant

The Outlaw Restaurant in Ouray, located at 610 Main Street, offers a delightful dining experience with its emphasis on perfectly cooked steaks and a warm, inviting atmosphere enhanced by live piano music.

This establishment, celebrated for its old-west charm, provides an eclectic menu catering to various tastes but with a special focus on steak dishes.

The ambiance, combining a rustic setting with a hint of sophistication, makes the Outlaw a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Reviews often highlight the friendly service and the high quality of the food, despite the slightly higher prices.

The unique charm of the Outlaw lies in its ability to transport diners to a bygone era, making it more than just a meal but an experience to remember. Its reputation as one of Ouray’s premier dining destinations is well-deserved, offering an unforgettable culinary journey.

Bon Ton Restaurant

Nestled at 426 Main Street, the Bon Ton Restaurant offers a blend of Italian and American cuisine in a historic, homely setting. It stands out for its handmade pasta and classic dishes like Beef Wellington and Chicken Marsala.

This fine dining establishment prides itself on its culinary craftsmanship, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create dishes that delight the palate. The restaurant’s ambiance is both intimate and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

The attentive and friendly service adds to the overall dining experience, making guests feel both welcomed and valued.

With its rich history and reputation for excellence, Bon Ton remains a standout choice for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience in Ouray. Its unique charm and commitment to culinary excellence ensure that every visit is memorable and enjoyable.

BrickHouse 737

Located at 737 Main Street, BrickHouse 737 is a contemporary American restaurant known for its commitment to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients.

The menu is a testament to culinary innovation, offering a diverse range of dishes inspired by global cuisines, all prepared with a modern twist. From expertly cooked steaks to fresh seafood, each dish is crafted to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients.

The ambiance of BrickHouse 737 is modern and welcoming, with a focus on creating a relaxed dining atmosphere. Guests often praise the restaurant for its attentive service and the quality of the food, making it a popular choice for both casual meals and special occasions.

The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and support for local farmers and producers is reflected in its ever-evolving menu, ensuring that each visit offers a new and exciting culinary experience.

Also check out some of the best cities in the United Kingdom. Here is a list of fun things to do in Margate, things to do in Ripon, and things to do in Chichester for a fun exploration.

Hot Springs

Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” offers several hot springs, each providing a unique soaking experience amidst the stunning San Juan Mountains. Here are three top hot springs to consider:

Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa

This spa is a haven of tranquility, offering a range of hot pools and traditional wellness services. The Wiesbaden features a large swimming pool, a vapor cave, and The Lorelei, a secluded soaking pool, all fed by naturally flowing hot springs.

The waters, rich in minerals like sulfate, sodium, calcium, and potassium, are known for their healing properties.

Day guests can soak for up to three hours, or you can choose to stay at the property for extended access. The Wiesbaden is particularly known for its vapor cave, offering a unique soaking experience in a natural setting.

Twin Peaks Lodge and Hot Springs

This 3.5-star hotel boasts both indoor and outdoor hot springs pools, including a fenced hot tub area and a large, naturally heated pool.

The setting is ideal for relaxation, complemented by the hotel’s Sage Spa, which offers various massages and wellness treatments.

Twin Peaks offers comfortable accommodations and a convenient location near Ouray’s downtown attractions, making it a great option for both soaking and exploring the town.

Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs

Nestled within the tall walls of the mountains, Box Canyon Lodge offers a more intimate hot springs experience, with several small tubs of hot spring mineral water on site.

This location is perfect for those seeking a quieter, more secluded soak. The lodge itself is a great option for staying overnight, located conveniently near Box Canyon Falls and other Ouray attractions. However, the hot springs here are exclusive to guests of the lodge.

How to Ride

Guides and Courses

Ouray offers various guided tours and courses for those interested in exploring its scenic landscapes. Whether it’s off-roading, horseback riding, or other outdoor activities, there are numerous options for both beginners and experienced adventurers.

Off-roading in Ouray is particularly popular, given its rugged terrain and beautiful mountain trails. The town provides access to experienced guides and instructors who can help you navigate the landscape safely and enjoyably.

These guides not only offer their expertise but also ensure you have the right equipment and knowledge for a memorable experience. They are particularly useful for activities like OHV (Off-Highway Vehicles) riding, where navigating the terrain can be challenging and requires specific skills.

Rentals

For those who prefer a more independent experience, Ouray also offers various rental options. You can rent Jeeps, UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles), eBikes, and more to explore the San Juan Mountains at your own pace.

Companies like Ouray Mountain Adventures offer a fleet of trail-ready vehicles, including Jeep Rubicons and high-performance Polaris RZRs, perfect for the bold and adventurous. These vehicles are designed to handle the rocky terrain, making them ideal for exploring the rugged trails around Ouray.

Additionally, eBike rentals are available for those who prefer a less intense but equally thrilling experience. Renting these vehicles gives you the freedom to plan your own routes and spend as much time as you want in the beautiful outdoors of Ouray.

Backcountry Info

Ouray’s backcountry offers a range of outdoor activities, including off-roading and guided Jeep tours. These adventures allow you to explore historic mining roads, ghost towns, and stunning landscapes.

In Ouray’s backcountry, visitors can enjoy off-roading and Jeep tours to explore historic mining roads and stunning landscapes. It’s important to note that OHVs are not permitted within Ouray city limits, with a designated staging area available at Horseshoe Bend.

Parking trailers on certain county roads is allowed as long as they don’t obstruct traffic. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially during summer, and carry necessary equipment like GPS and radios for safety.

Out-of-state OHV (Off-Highway Vehicles) plates are not recognized in Colorado, so proper registration is required. High-clearance AWD or 4X4 vehicles are recommended for all trails.

Off-roading in Ouray offers an exhilarating way to experience the region’s natural beauty and historical sites. With proper preparation and respect for the backcountry, you can have a memorable adventure in the San Juan Mountains.

Skiing and Snowboarding Info

Ouray, Colorado, offers a unique skiing and snowboarding experience. While Ouray doesn’t have large ski resorts like some other Colorado towns, it offers charming and intimate winter sports opportunities, perfect for those looking for a quieter and more personal experience in the snow.

One of the key attractions in Ouray during winter is the Ouray Ice Park, renowned for being the first of its kind for ice climbing. The park, located in the Uncompahgre Gorge, features ice formed by sprayers that create a safe and engaging environment for climbers of all levels.

It’s easily accessible, allowing for a unique ice climbing experience just a short hike from parking areas. The park is perfect for beginners and experts alike, with professional guidance available for those new to the sport.

For traditional skiing, Lee’s Ski Hill in Ouray provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a single beginner run accessed by a rope tow.

The hill offers about 75 feet of vertical drop and is typically open from December through March, depending on weather conditions. This small but charming ski hill is perfect for those just learning to ski or snowboard or for families looking for a gentle slope to enjoy together.

Beyond these specific locations, the Ouray area is surrounded by the majestic San Juan Mountains, which are popular among backcountry skiers.

Programming

In Ouray and Silverton, you can find guides offering courses to introduce you to backcountry skiing, but these areas lack traditional ski schools.

For structured ski lessons, either private or in groups, and catering to both children and adults, you’ll need to visit Telluride, where they are available throughout the ski season. Additionally, Telluride offers daycare services, allowing parents to enjoy skiing while their children are cared for.

England makes one of the top places to visit in the UK; check out the list of things to do in Hordle, and things to do in Guildford for a fun time.

Final Thoughts

Ouray, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers an array of outdoor activities for all levels of adventurers.

Whether you’re exploring the rugged backcountry via guided tours or off-roading, or seeking ski lessons and childcare services in nearby Telluride, the region caters to a diverse range of interests and skills.

It’s a destination where the thrill of adventure harmoniously blends with the serene beauty of nature, making every visit a unique and memorable experience.