Ouray Colorado Guide | Hot Springs, Ice Climbing & Things to Do

Your Guide to Ouray

Hot springs and alpine drama

Ouray sits in a natural amphitheater, surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks on three sides. The setting earned it the nickname "Switzerland of America"—and the comparison isn't hyperbole. Victorian buildings line Main Street, and natural hot springs bubble up throughout town.

Winter transforms Ouray into the ice climbing capital of North America. The Ouray Ice Park offers hundreds of man-made and natural ice routes, drawing climbers from around the world. The January Ice Festival is a highlight.

The Million Dollar Highway—US 550 between Ouray and Silverton—is one of America's most dramatic drives. Hairpin turns, no guardrails, and sheer drops thousands of feet to the valley floor. Summer only; winter closes sections regularly.

Explore Ouray

Peaks, pools, and mountain roads

SPRINGS

Hot Springs

The Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers mountain views and natural mineral water. Box Canyon Lodge and Wiesbaden also feature private soaking pools.

ICE

Ice Park

World's first public ice climbing park. Hundreds of routes, gear rentals, and instruction available. The Ice Festival draws thousands each January.

ROAD

Million Dollar Highway

23 miles of dramatic mountain road to Silverton. Part of the San Juan Skyway scenic byway. Not for the faint of heart.

JEEP

Jeep Trails

Imogene Pass to Telluride, Engineer Pass, and Yankee Boy Basin. Some of Colorado's most scenic and challenging 4x4 routes.

FALLS

Box Canyon Falls

285-foot waterfall in a narrow box canyon. A short walk from downtown to view the falls from a suspended bridge.

FOOD

Restaurants

Small town with surprising quality. Brewpubs, historic dining rooms, and casual mountain fare along Main Street.

Plan Your Visit

Where to stay and how to get there

STAY

Where to Stay

Historic hotels, hot springs lodges, and mountain cabins. No chains—all independently owned properties with character.

TRAVEL

Getting There

325 miles from Denver (5.5 hours). Montrose airport is 35 miles away with regional flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Ouray visit

How far is Ouray from Denver?

About 325 miles, roughly 5.5 hours via US-550 through Montrose. The Montrose airport (35 miles) offers the closest commercial flights.

Is the Million Dollar Highway safe?

In good weather and daylight, yes—though it requires attention. No guardrails on some sections. Avoid in winter unless experienced with mountain driving.

When is the Ice Festival?

Mid-January, typically the second or third weekend. The festival includes competitions, demonstrations, gear expos, and social events.

Can beginners ice climb?

Yes. Several guide services offer introductory clinics and private instruction. The park has routes for all skill levels.

Ouray, Colorado