Waterfalls cascade into a river valley and mountains rise steeply on every side of this historic mining town, which is how Ouray Colorado received the nickname, the “Switzerland of America”. This quaint town in the southern part of the state may be small in size, but there are plenty of activities for a family friendly weekend in Ouray, Colorado.
I’ve driven through Ouray several times, maybe stopped for the occasional coffee, but have never stayed and explored the surrounding area. Without a ski resort tethered to town, Ouray has maintained its character as a mining town that was founded in 1876, but with modern touches.
It was the first weekend of October, and fall was finally in the air. It had been warm throughout September and the fall leaves were starting to peak over the weekend. A group of us rented a condo in town for a birthday weekend and loved the small town charm without hoards of tourists.
We had 6 adults and 5 kids, ranging from 7 months to 6 years, in a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom townhome. The morning started with a bagel bar, stepping over blocks and trucks as we tried to get everyone ready and out the door on a crisp, clear fall day. 7am wake up calls, but 10am to actually get out the door and start our day. Luckily, no one was on a schedule or in a hurry to get out the door.
Best Hikes in Ouray
Box Canyon Falls
Our first stop in Ouray Colorado was to Box Canyon Falls, a 285 foot waterfall that plunges into a narrow canyon. It was a short 500 foot walk into the canyon, so all the kids, even my 2 year old, navigated the trail. The dirt trail led down to a metal walkway that hugged the canyon wall. From the walkway, the sound of water rushing down was almost deafening. A short set of stairs took visitors down to the base of the falls.
Standing at the bottom of the narrow canyon, the walls swept dramatically upwards, enveloping us in sound and mist at the base of the falls. Box Canyon Falls are a must see destination for families of all ages.
A word of warning… The walkway is a 4 foot wide metal grate you can see through to the ground below. It is secured to the canyon wall, which overhangs low in spots, and a well-reinforced railing on the other side. If anyone has a fear of heights, this walk might feel intimidating.
After visiting the base of the falls, we then hiked to the top of them. The High Bridge Trail is a short but steep half mile round trip hike. We put the two smaller kids under 3 in packs for the ascent. From the bridge that crosses over the falls, are beautiful views of Ouray and the surrounding peaks. This trail connects with the Perimeter trail, so just turn around once you reach the metal bridge.
There is a small fee to access this area.
Perimeter Trail
The Perimeter trail is a 5 mile trail that circles the town high on the hillside. The trail offers great views and steep terrain. With sharp drop offs on the narrow trail, it is not recommended for small kids, but there are a few side trails that kids can tag along for. For adults looking for some solo time who don’t mind the exposure, this is the best option in town. There are several start and exit points for shorter hiking options, we traded off kid-watching so we could all walk a portion of the trail.
Cascade Falls is a tall, 200 foot waterfall that can be accessed via the Perimeter Trail on the northwest side of town. Alternatively, it can be reached via a ¼ mile steep walk from 8th Street.
The Baby Bathtubs Trail is a short, 3/4 mile roundtrip, side trail from the Perimeter trail. Starting at the Amphitheater Campground Road, the trail leads to a stream with a series of potholes that collect water and are a perfect place for little kids to splash around.
Uncompahgre River Walk Loop
The Uncompahgre River Walk Loop is a kid and stroller friendly 2 mile packed gravel trail that follows the river. It can be accessed via Uncompahgre Street, a little less than a mile north of the Ouray Hot Springs.
Walk Through Historic Downtown
We grabbed strollers and striders for a walk through the historic downtown. The Ouray Brewery has a fantastic selection of burgers and brews that can be enjoyed on their rooftop deck overlooking the historic downtown. Maggie’s Kitchen is another great option, offering quick service and smashed burgers. Nap time was approaching soon, so we sat down where we could find a table first – Maggie’s. It’s a diner-style, no-nonsense joint, and I highly recommend the green chili cheeseburger. Next door, you can grab a beer at Mr. Grumpy Pants Brewing Co to accompany your meal.
For a sweet treat, don’t pass up Mouses Chocolates and Coffee. A large display case features all hand-made chocolates, pastries, ice creams, and unique coffees. Everything we tried was incredible and we visited a few times during our stay. Oh, I had so many favorites including a mexican mocha coffee, chocolate truffles, and creamy caramel & marshmallows covered in dark chocolate.
Another great stop in town is the playground, located next to the hot springs. We visited this spot several times to play, along with watching the large fish in a pond. Just be careful not to fall in. Fish food is available for a small cost.
Soak in the Ouray Hot Springs
While staying in Ouray Colorado, you can’t pass up a dip in the hot springs. Large, shallow pools, each of varying temperature, are the perfect way to spend a family-friendly weekend in Ouray, Colorado.
Three of the five large pools are geothermally heated and sourced from the ground near the Box Canyon Waterfall. While there are several pools to choose from, we spent all our time in the Hot Pool. At 98 degrees and only 3 feet deep, the pools are lovely. It was just the right temp for both adults and kids to hang out for hours. Large, sprawling pools allowed enough room for the young ones to splash, jump, and play in the shallow water.
For those who need some adult only time, the Overlook Pool is heated to 102-106 and provides the most relaxing soak.
Day Trips from Ouray Colorado: Scenic Drive to Silverton
Waking up to the first snow of the season on the high mountain peaks with trees still glowing yellow and orange, the cool day lent itself to a scenic drive. Packing the cars with kids, lunch, and snacks, we headed south towards Silverton on Highway 550, better known as the Million Dollar Highway.
This 25 mile stretch of highway between Ouray and Silverton is stunning… and a little scary. With tight curves cut into the mountainside and no guardrails, the scenic mountain pass was on fire this fall as the bright leaves lit up the drive for some prime peeping.
Along the way are several overlooks providing beautiful views and scenic overlooks, but the one location you must stop at is Crystal Lake. Early in the morning, the calm waters reflect the mountain landscape onto the surface, making for a picture-perfect photo. A flat trail circles about half of the lake. We took some time for photos while wandering around the lake and through the aspen trees.
Once we reached Silverton, I was craving something to warm me up on the overcast and drizzly day. Coffee Bear Silverton hit the spot. Inside a historic brick building, the cozy shop has delicious coffees, pastries, and homemade breakfast burritos.
Continuing on Highway 550 towards Durango, we drove another 10 minutes to the top of Molas Pass to eat our packed lunch. Pulling over into the parking lot, there was a little area at the top with some benches to eat lunch. Quickly. Rain clouds moved in, so we shoveled food into our mouths and chased the kids back into the car for the drive back.
Weekend Wrap up: Is it worth it to visit Ouray Colorado?
It’s definitely worth spending some time in Ouray rather than just passing through. The town packs a punch for its size. Surrounded by dramatic scenery, there are numerous options for outdoor adventures for tiny tykes and extreme athletes and everyone in between. Top it off with relaxing hot springs after a day of adventuring and you’ll understand why this is a not to miss Colorado destination.
There are some great places to visit around Ouray. Check out a day hike to Blue Lakes, visit Telluride for some great hikes accessible from town, or make a half day stop at Black Canyon of the Gunnison State Park.