DESTINATION OURAY –A SOUTHWEST COLORADO GEM

from Thirst Colorado -- July-August, 2023

THE POWER OF BELIEF Wonderbound’s Damien Patterson’s swan song

By Kristen Kuchar

Located at 7,800 feet in the San Juan Mountains is the picturesque town of Ouray. Known as the Switzerland of America, this southwest Colorado destination is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise as well as a location that still offers a glimpse of the Old West.

The area’s natural hot springs were used by the Ute Indians before the town became a gold-mining camp in the 1870s. Most area mining settlements withered away but Ouray is one of the few that survived and continued to grow, albeit slowly (population 900).

Whether you want to stay in town and experience the history at the Ouray County Historical Museum, or venture out into the hills on foot or in a Jeep, the area offers endless possibilities and a place to soak and soothe your muscles when the adventure ends.

The area boasts more than 300 miles of trails, some of which can be accessed in town. It’s also a popular destination for off-roading. If your Subaru is not up for the task, Jeep tours are available with guides who know the mountains inside and out.

In addition to outdoor activities, downtown is home to an eclectic list of restaurants, breweries, art galleries, shops, bars and more. Whether it’s tackling a scenic hike or simply enjoying the historic buildings and incredible scenery, Ouray has something for everyone.

At Rest

The city has a wide range of lodging options, from scenic campgrounds, cozy inns and themed bed and breakfasts to affordable motels and hotels and luxury accommodations.

Some notable options include the Beaumont Hotel and Spa, The Imogene Hotel and Rooftop Bar, The Clipper Inn and Hotel Ouray.

The Western Hotel and Saloon, which was recently refurbished, was built in 1892 and still retains much of the Old West charm. For those traveling with pups, the Ouray Riverside Resort, Ouray Inn and Ouray Main Street Inn are great choices to explore.

In Action

The city also dubbed itself the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado,” and it’s tough to argue that point. There are 84 mapped and maintained trails to hike, ranging from easy strolls around the city to technical and strenuous routes, requiring proper preparation and gear. One of the hotspots is Box Canon Falls Park and Nature Center, which features a family-friendly 500-foot walk into gorgeous waterfalls.

Soaking in hot springs is often a high priority for visitors. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool opened in 1927 and was upgraded a few years ago. Other properties that offer hot springs include the Hot Springs Inn, Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa, Twin Peaks Lodge and Hot Springs, and Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs.

There is plenty to explore just outside your hotel, including the historical museum, art galleries and numerous shops. The historic Wright Opera House on Main Street dates back to 1888. It hosts a variety of events, including live music, dinner theater, movies, art shows and more.

Appetite And Thirst

When it comes to grabbing a bite to eat, there is something for every taste and experience. For a Western vibe, The Outlaw Restaurant on Main Street offers fine dining in a rustic and fun setting. John Wayne apparently made an impression at the restaurant and there is a 16-ounce prime rib named after him.

Maggie’s Kitchen serves burgers and sandwiches and breakfast in the mornings. Another breakfast option is Kami’s Samis. Other stops could include Thai Chili, Ouray Café and Steakhouse, Mi Mexico, Timberline Deli, and MineShaft, where you can build your own pizza.

The city is home to a handful of breweries, including Ouray Brewery, Red Mountain Brewing and Ourayle House Brewery. For wine lovers, Sauvage Spectrum has opened a lounge on Main Street. The Palisade-based winery has jumped out as a leader in growing Western Slope grapes and producing excellent wines. KJ Wood Distillers also offers a tasting room with infused and signature cocktails made with their spirits.

To enjoy a nice meal with a drink, check out the Colorado Boy Southwest Pub, which serves traditional and Detroit-style pizza, among other pub food. And don’t overlook Brickhouse 737, which focuses on farm-fresh ingredients for their food, and offers a wide variety of wine and cocktails.