6 minute read

TERRIFIC TOURS

Next Article
SCENIC DRIVES

SCENIC DRIVES

Easy ways to tour the mountains

Explore the rugged San Juan Mountains from the comfort of a Jeep, or log some serious miles on winding mountain bike trails. Consider capturing a photo from a pristine view during a mountain hike or delving deep into the backcountry on horseback.

Advertisement

Ouray has a dirt trail in every direction, leading to somewhere spectacular in the middle of nowhere. For armchair adventurers and seasoned explorers alike, Ouray has earned its reputation as an ideal destination for people of all ages to enjoy.

DRIVING DIRT ROADS

Ouray is most famous as a Jeeping and off-highway vehicle destination in summer and fall seasons. The area attracts visitors on four wheels from around the world. Spend sunny days driving on the dirt roads around abandoned mountain settlements.

SIX BASINS PROJECT

Most of the trails are maintained and well-used by businesses and locals. These individuals created the Six Basins Project to protect and preserve the landscape and heritage in the region’s backcountry basins. The volunteers at this nonprofit organization provide education, signage and improved sanitation at established sites.

With the increase in visitors over the years it is important the preservation of these wilderness areas continue. Find out more at www.sixbasinsprojectinc.com.

Road Etiquette & Off-Road Rules

• Drivers traveling uphill have the right-of-way.

So, that means when traveling downhill, yield to the driver driving uphill toward you. It is easier and safer.

• Drive very slowly around curves. When approaching a shelf road or one-lane part of the trail, stop and get out to look for vehicles that may be approaching before moving forward. Sometimes it’s impossible to pass or very dangerous to back up, so avoid having to do either if possible. • Don’t pick the wildflowers and don’t drive or walk on fragile alpine tundra because it can take these plants more than 10 years to return.

• Tread lightly and pack out all trash. • Off roading does not mean to stray away from designated roads. Stay on the roads and do not travel off road. For more information visit www.stayonthetrail.org

Jeep Tours

For those unfamiliar or uncomfortable navigating fourwheel-drive mountain passes, don’t hesitate to hire a local guide. Numerous companies offer tours, and the local guides make these trips unforgettable. In addition to easy sight-seeing, tours offer a historical overview of the areas they explore.

Horse tails & trails Explore an old mine

Horses are integral to the history and heritage of our mining town. For an authentic Wild West adventure, saddle up with one of the area outfitters. Journey into Ouray’s mountain wilderness on horseback.

Trotting along mountain trails leads riders through natural wildlife habitats and historical mining sites. Expeditions include easy trails with postcard views in every direction, the full multiday camping experience, and everything in between. There is an equine experience out there for everyone in Ouray!

With the number of mines scattered across the San Juans, taking a guided tour of Bachelor Syracuse Mine or Old Hundred Mine is an excellent educational experience for all ages and groups. Travel into the mountain and learn about the mining tools and operations. Guests can even try their hand at panning for gold. Entering an abandoned mine is illegal if they are privately owned, and they are also extremely dangerous and potentially harmful to health.

DISCOVER THE

UNITED COUNTRY SNEFFELS REALTY

Looking to Buy or Sell in Ridgway, Ouray, Telluride, Montrose or Silverton?

United Country Sneffels Realty

Steve Conklin • Judy Darwick • Marc Hitchcox • Mistalyn Kuzov • Pamela La Pointe • Dennis Reece • Todd Schroedel • Judi Snelling

Our agents are local experts who provide global exposure! We unite buyers with sellers.

SneffelsRealty.com ● 970-626-3555

9.8 miles For a moderate, scenic route across the San Juan Mountains, take the spectacular Ophir Pass to Telluride. At 11,790 feet, Ophir Pass Road is nearly 10 miles of highclearance terrain along a very narrow, rocky shelf. While a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended, it may not be required. Access the popular pass from Highway 550. The road will eventually end at Highway 145 just south of Telluride.

YANKEE BOY BASIN 18.8 miles

Waterfalls flowing and wildflowers blooming in the lush basin makes this route a popular place to drive in the summer and fall seasons. The out-and-back road takes tourists through a historic mining district, past Twin Falls and to a beautiful meadow filled with wildlife at 10,000 feet in elevation.

ALPINE LOOP 65 miles

There are many infamous passes in the area, so one of the best ways to experience the wild variety of mountain passes is to drive the Alpine Loop. This loop will take drivers up and over Engineer Pass at a towering 12,800 feet, and Cinnamon at 12,640 feet. Though it will take approximately 5-7 hours to complete, visitors may want to allow extra time to explore the beauty of the ghost towns and abandoned mines that still cling to the jagged landscape. CORKSCREW GULCH 6.8 miles

Corkscrew Gulch is known for its sharp switchbacks. The narrow and steep unpaved road features sweeping views of aspen trees. It was originally built in 1882 to provide access between Silverton and mines on Red Mountain. Access the off-road route from Corkscrew Gulch Trail and climb to the red soil summit at 12,000 feet. Explore nearby relics of the mining era or continue the cruise by heading north to Hurricane Pass for an incredible view of Lake Como.

IMOGENE PASS

17.5 miles As the second highest drivable pass in Colorado, Imogene Pass offers a thrilling ride revealing incredible views. The three-hour route is steep and rocky. It includes views of Black Bear Pass and Savage Basin. Drivers can follow the road all the way to Telluride or return to Ouray by turning around at the historic Tomboy townsite and mining district.

MORE ROUTES

There are dozens more dirt roads permitted for four-wheel-drive adventures. Using Ouray as a basecamp, head south to Silverton, where drivers will find over 40 additional passes and jeep roads twisting through the landscape, providing jeepers the opportunity for endless exploration. Get an official trail map, talk to a jeep company and educate yourself on the skill level of each trail ahead of time. Be sure to plan accordingly. See the map on page 30 to review trails in the region. For updated trail conditions see www.soajeep.com/trail-maps-conditions.

This article is from: