Ouray and Ridgway
Visitor Guide
"Switzerland of America"
Welcome to the Ouray County Visitor Guide! Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, we've put together our top picks for the best eats, drinks, and adventures in Ouray and Ridgway. From scenic hikes and local brews to hidden gems and can't-miss experiences, let this guide be your starting point for exploring the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains.
Summer in Ouray County
Summer in this stunning region is both peaceful and invigorating, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy scenic hiking trails, horseback rides, or off-road excursions through the mountains, along with lively music festivals that celebrate the season. The crisp mountain air of the Ouray/Ridgway area invites visitors to slow down, explore, and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Winter in Ouray County
Winters in the Ouray Box Canyon and Ridgway Valley are nothing short of magical. The town transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and skijoring. After a day of adventure, relax in one of the many geothermal hot springs and take in the panoramic mountain views. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or peaceful moments in nature, this winter escape offers something unforgettable for everyone.
Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway: a breathtaking stretch of U.S. Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton, offers one of the most scenic drives in the country. Carved into the side of rugged cliffs and winding through the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this iconic route features dramatic drop-offs, hairpin turns, and jaw-dropping vistas around every bend. Whether you're chasing fall colors, summer wildflowers, or snow-capped peaks, the drive is an unforgettable adventure. With its rich mining history and unmatched views, the Million Dollar Highway is a must-see for any visitor to the San Juan region.
Grocery & Liquor
Ridgway
The Market at Ridgway - 490 Sherman St
Ridgway Liquors - 580 Sherman St (Preorder pickup available)
Ouray
Montrose
Prefer to skip the Mountain Town convenience fees and get groceries from Montrose on the way?
With our private services we can stop on one of these locations:
City Market South - 16400 South Townsend Ave
Walmart Supercenter - 16750 South Townsend Ave (conveniently next to The Liquor Store)
Soak and S'mores with Timber Ridge Lodge
Where Ouray feels like home
Timber Ridge Lodge is a locally owned boutique hotel nestled along the scenic Uncompahgre River Walk Trail. Their unbeatable location is just a quarter-mile stroll along the river to the Ouray Hot Springs, downtown shopping, dining, and mountain adventures.
Soak & S’mores Package
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10% off lodging
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Complimentary pool towels for hot springs soaking
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Fireside s’mores and hot chocolate every evening (6–9 PM)
Book directly with Timber Ridge Lodge using the button below or call 970-325-4856.
Use promo code SHUTTLE for 10% off lodging.
Free Local Bus - Ouray
City of Ouray Shuttle Bus
Getting around Ouray just got easier! Explore Ouray car-free with the free In-Town Shuttle Bus. Operating on a continuous 60-minute loop, the shuttle connects key locations including downtown shops and restaurants, trailheads, lodging, and popular visitor sites.
Whether you're heading out for a hike, soaking in the hot springs, or simply exploring town, the shuttle offers a stress-free and scenic ride to get where you need to go.
Operates daily June through Mid-September
Summer
Adventures and Events
Check out the Ouray and Ridgway Events Calendar for more!
Backcountry Biking with Ouray Mountain Sports
Explore History at the Ouray County Museum
Fly Fishing with Rigs Fly Shop & Guide Service
Hiking suggestions by Visit Ouray
Jeep Tours by Alpine Scenic Jeep Tours
Scenic Tours by TelluRides
Via Ferrata guided by Basecamp Ouray Mountain Guides
White Water Rafting guided by Mild to Wild Rafting
Summer Music Concert Series
Free Concerts In the Town's Parks
Ridgway Farmer's Market
Fridays May-October
10am-2pm (weather dependant)
Enjoy produce, gifts, treats and more by local vendors from around the southwest corner of the Western Slope.
Winter
Adventures and Events
Backcountry Skiing and Snow Shoeing with San Juan Mountain Guides
Ice Climbing with BaseCamp Ouray Mountain Guides
Ice Skating at Ouray Rotary Park
Sledding at Vinegar Hill in Ouray
Ouray Ice Park
Ouray Ice Festival
The Ouray Ice Festival is the Ouray Ice Park's largest fundraising event of the year. Every January, climbers and spectators gather from around the world for three full days of comraderie, incredible ice climbing, clinics, competitions, and events.
Check out the festival website to learn more, get your gear demo card, sign up for clinics, and view the full event and competition schedule.
