Spring Is Just Around the Corner: Spend a Weekend in Ouray

Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, Ouray, the "Switzerland of America," offers historic charm and relaxation. The hot springs, mining history, and culinary scene make it a must-visit.

March 07, 2025

With spring just around the corner, Ouray’s unique blend of historic charm and outdoor adventure makes it a perfect weekend escape. Whether you're looking for a luxurious getaway or a cozy cabin stay, Ouray has options to suit every traveler. The recently restored Western Hotel offers a taste of Colorado history with modern comforts, while the Beaumont Hotel & Spa provides a more upscale experience with a full-service spa in the heart of town. For nature lovers, the Ouray Riverside Resort offers riverside cabins and campsites, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Lastly, Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs offers comfortable accommodations with access to private hot springs—ideal for relaxing after a day of adventure.

Whether you're soaking in natural hot springs, hiking through awe-inspiring alpine terrain, or savoring a meal with a mountain view, Ouray offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. With warmer weather on the horizon, there's no better time to plan a weekend escape to this charming mountain town.

Ouray's downtown, with its well-preserved Victorian architecture, gives visitors a glimpse into the town’s mining past. Begin your weekend by strolling along Main Street, which sits at 7,792 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking mountain views in every direction. For history lovers, a visit to the Ouray County Historical Museum provides a deep dive into the town’s colorful past, while the Ouray Alchemist Museum reveals the intriguing history of pharmacy and medicine in the Old West. You can also explore the Museum of the Mountain West, where the rich mining history of the region is brought to life through an impressive collection of artifacts housed in historic buildings.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Ouray year-round, and as the weather warms up, the surrounding trails come alive with blooming wildflowers and trickling waterfalls. The Perimeter Trail is a must-do hike, offering stunning views of the town and its surroundings. This 6-mile loop takes hikers past landmarks like Cascade Falls, Box Canyon Falls, and the Amphitheater. For a shorter hike, the Lower Cascade Falls trail is a quick and rewarding trek.

If you're looking for a thrill, book a jeep tour with one of the local outfitters and venture up into the high alpine scenery of Imogene Pass or Yankee Boy Basin. These 4x4 trails reveal some of the most spectacular landscapes in Colorado and are especially popular during wildflower season.

After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to relax than by soaking in Ouray’s natural hot springs. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers a family-friendly environment with a variety of pools of different temperatures, while the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa provides a quieter, more intimate setting with a vapor cave that has drawn visitors since the town's early days.

For a more private and exclusive experience, check into the Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs, where guests can enjoy a serene hot spring pool with sweeping views of the mountains.

While Ouray might be small, its food scene is impressive. For breakfast, start your day with a hearty meal at Maggie’s Kitchen known for its giant cinnamon rolls and comforting homemade dishes. For lunch, stop by Brickhouse 737, a farm-to-table restaurant located in a beautifully restored historic building offering locally sourced cuisine with a modern twist.

For dinner, indulge in a meal at Bon Ton Restaurant, where classic Italian dishes are served in a cozy, fine dining atmosphere. For something more casual, Colorado Boy Southwest Pub offers wood-fired pizza and craft beer in a laid-back setting. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee is a beloved local institution, famous for its “scrap cookies” made with all the leftover bits from their handmade chocolate creations.