Photography Gus Gusciora©

Written By NICHOLE ZANGARA
Located on the San Juan Skyway and majestically nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Ouray is crowned with natural beauty and grace. Between historic Victorian buildings lining the narrow streest and stunning peaks looming above, it's no wonder this mountain gem is known as the Switzerland of America. Glittering with small-town charm, unique shopping, great dining, fantastic natural hot springs and a vast gamut of outdoor activities, Ouray's ambiance and energy are matched by few.

Ouray shoulders three of the most incandescent, awe-inspiring waterfalls in Colorado. In summer, there is plenty of rugged mountain country to explore inside a burly four-wheel-drive vehicle. Check out wilderness hot spots like Yankee Boy Basin (famous for wildflower viewing), Last Dollar Road and Red Mountain Pass. Four-wheeling is also a great way to travel back in time. Tour old mining roads and ghost towns with artifacts dating back 120 years. Other seasonal musts include the 90-minute Broadway to Branson Show, first-class Iron Dog Sled Race and Ouray's Ice Festival held at the first ice park in America.

Ouray County's Ridgway Reservoir at Ridgway State Park and the Uncompahgre River offer rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. Conversely, when Mother Nature beckons winter's return, strap on some snowshoes or hiking boots for a tantalizing walk through spectacular snow-covered trails: the Silver Shield and Lower Cascade Falls are a few mentionables. The Ouray Hot Springs and Pool is open year-round, providing the perfect setting for soaking muscles and soaking up views. Even after you've dabbled in everything to see and do, the pristine beauty of storybook Ouray keeps hearts warm and spirits alive for years to come.

Visitor's Services:
Ouray Chamber and Visitor Center
P.O. Box 145 | Ouray, CO 81427
(970) 325-4746 | (800) 228-1876
Email: ouray2@mindspring.com
Website: www.ouraycolorado.com

Attractions/Services
Box Canyon and Cascade Falls
Camp Bird Mine
Ghost Towns via Four-Wheel Tours
Ice Climbing
Million Dollar Highway
National Historic District
Ouray Hot Springs and Pool

Switzerland of America and Four-Wheel-Drive Capital of Colorado!

Voted #1 Town to Live in by
Men's Journal!