Ridgway
Ouray,
Silverton
Durango
Pagosa Springs
 
 
 
 
 

Story by Kathryn Retzler; Photos by James Burke 

For more than a century, ruggedly scenic Ouray County has been a destination for travelers from around the world and for people seeking a scenic place to put down roots. The town of Ouray, at 7,700 feet, is nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, some topping 14,000 feet. Steeped in mining and railroad history, its Victorian-era buildings have been lovingly preserved. Ouray has long been known as "The Little Switzerland of America."  The name fits. 

Hot Springs.  Natural, sulfur-free hot water surfaces from several springs, just as it has for thousands of years. Utes and other Indians came here for ceremonial and healing purposes, calling these springs "sacred miracle waters," a description which is still apt today. Some springs are well-kept secrets; others—Orvis Hot Springs, Ouray Hot Springs Swimming Pool, Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs and the Wiesbaden Spa—are well-known. Just imagine a rejuvenating soak where the moist air smells good, your skin is hydrated, stress disappears and you can't remember ever being so relaxed. Isn't that something of a miracle?

Recreation. There's something to do here all year long and recreational activities to suit every taste—from a thrilling ski to a relaxing read by a roaring fire. Ouray county boasts hundreds of jeep trails—most are four-wheel drive—through the old mining country. Before the snows blanket the high country, hiking, biking and horseback rides are popular pastimes. The area abounds with photo opportunities— wildflowers, waterfalls and forests teaming with wildlife. And in the fall, the blazing color of the aspens brings visitors from around the world. Rivers team with fish, and from May through October, a variety of water sports, including swimming and boating, are available at the nearby Ridgway Reservoir. Winter sports include ice-climbing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Events & Activities. Year-round: first-run movies at the Ouray Cinema. May-October: plays, concerts in the park, "Evenings of History" at the Ouray Community Center; the Outlaw Cookout (from Outlaw Restaurant); Ridgway Farmer's Market; San Juan Balloons hot-air balloon rides; Ouray County Railroad Days. Special Events: Fourth of July parade and water fights; Artists’ Alpine Holiday Art Show, Ouray Community Center; Ridgway Rendezvous; Highgraders Holiday, mining competitions. For current calendar of events, check the San Juan Silver Stage.

History. The town of Ouray is designated a National Historic District. Originally named Uncompahgre City (after the Ute word that translates as "hot water springs"), the name was changed to commemorate Ute Chief Ouray who signed the Brunot Treaty, giving the San Juans to the United States. Hopeful miners soon came in search of gold and silver. Although the mines are no longer commercially operated, parts of the old mining camps and towns have been preserved. One, The Bachelor-Syracuse Mine, operates as a tourist attraction with a mine train into the old tunnels. Others, in the Red Mountain Area—once home to nearly 10 thousand brave souls—are wonderful photographic opportunities. In town, the Ouray County Historical Museum (once the county hospital) features exhibits on mining, minerals and life in the Victorian times. At the Ouray County Fairgrounds, the Ridgway Visitors Center and Railroad Museum provide exhibits, including railroad rolling stock. Of particular pride is Goose Number One (Mother Goose), a reincarnation of the first of the unique hybrid auto/train boxcar combinations to ply the rails allowing steam passenger service to be discontinued. 

How to get there. Ouray County is located on Highway 550, approximately 70 miles north of Durango, 46 miles south of Montrose, 70 miles south of Grand Junction and 47 auto miles east of Telluride. All provide air and car rental service to the area.