Explore Breathtaking Trails: Hiking in Ouray

This is a great hike to do if you have kids. This trail follows Portland Creek and will have creek crossings. If it is a hot day and you, your kids, or dogs are looking for a spot to cool off, this is the perfect place. The small bathtubs carved into the rocks by erosion are very evident.

Difficulty: Easy Distance: 1.0–1.2 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: ~200 feet Type: Out-and-back Typical Time: 30–60 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A popular family walk featuring smooth sandstone “bathtubs’’ carved by a small creek. This short and scenic trail is ideal for children, photographers, and anyone wanting a relaxed stroll through a shaded, playful canyon environment. 

What to expect • Easy walking with minimal elevation gain • Shallow pools and sculpted rocks along the creek • Plenty of shade and cool air • Short, optional scrambles near the water 

Cautions / Notes • Water shoes helpful if exploring near the creek • Trail can be slick after rain 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center

• Turn right (south) onto US-550

• Drive a mile or so and turn left onto Amphitheater Rd 

• Drive to the parking area on the left just before the bridge over the gorge.

• The trail starts on the opposite side of the street just after the bridge. 

If you haven’t seen Box Cañon Falls, consider it a must. The entrance is two blocks up hill at the west end of Third Ave. During the summer months there is a small fee to see the falls, but it is worth twice what they charge.

After you’ve been into the canyon and seen the falls itself, you have the option of climbing a series of stairs and then following a 1/4 mile trail to a bridge far above the canyon, the views are spectacular.

Difficulty: Easy (with optional strenuous stair sections)

Distance: ~0.3 miles (visitor-level loop); stair routes add variable distance

Elevation gain: Minimal at main level; ~down to lower falls - 100 stairs - to upper falls - 200 stairs

Type: Short out-and-back / area walk

Typical time: 20–40 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A dramatic canyon experience featuring a powerful waterfall in a narrow slot. The main level is flat and accessible. Optional side routes include descending ~100 steps to the lower waterfall or climbing ~200 steps to the High Bridge for sweeping town views. 

What to expect

• Paved and well-maintained paths

• Steel staircases for lower and upper viewpoints 

• Handrails in steep sections

• Excellent photo spots 

Cautions / Notes

• Stair routes can be strenuous for some visitors

• Not advised in icy conditions without traction

• No dogs permitted 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center

• Drive south on US-550 for ~ one third mile to the large loop

• Turn right onto US-361 and follow signs to the Box Cañon parking area

• Park at the main lot and walk to the visitor center to pay

• The main loop and bridge are accessed directly from the visitor-level entrance

• Parking fills quickly in peak season — arrive early 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: ~1.0–1.5 miles total exploring Elevation Gain: Minimal Type: Loop + spur exploration Typical Time: 30–60 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A fascinating stroll through the well-preserved ghost town of Ironton, one of the most historically significant mining settlements between Ouray and Silverton. Visitors can explore cabins, the old railroad grade, interpretive signs, and beautiful forest scenery surrounding the townsite. 

What to Expect Wide, flat paths lead through tall spruce and fir forest, connecting a series of historic structures and open meadows. The loop is gentle and suitable for most walkers. Seasonal wildflowers brighten the clearing in summer, while lingering snow adds atmosphere in early spring and late fall. 

Cautions / Notes • Respect historic structures—look but do not enter unsafe buildings. • Roads may be muddy early in the season. • Areas can receive heavy snow; winter access may require traction devices or snowshoes. 

How to Get to the Trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center 

● Turn right (south) on Highway 550 for approximately 8 miles. 

● Watch for the sign that says ‘Ironton’ on your left. This is the turnoff to the townsite. Park there or where you can find a space. 

● You can now walk about a tenth of a mile to the townsite and explore. 

Distance: 2.2 Miles round-trip

Average Time: 20-40 Min

Type: Out-and-back / riverside promenade 

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

Overview / Highlights A very easy, flat riverside path that begins steps from the Ouray Visitor Center. Cottonwoods and willows line the Uncompahgre River; benches and gentle viewpoints make it perfect for families, visitors with limited mobility, and anyone wanting a short, peaceful walk. Excellent photo opportunities and wildlife watching (waterfowl, songbirds). 

What to expect • Stable, mostly level surfaces (paved or compacted gravel) • Little to no technical terrain • Benches and interpretive signs in places • Stroller- and wheelchair-friendly on main segments 

Cautions / Notes • Spring runoff may create wetter low-lying sections • Dogs allowed on leash • River corridor can be cooler than town—bring a light jacket 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Exit the Visitor Center and turn left (north) onto the walkway beside US-550 • Walk ~50 yards to an opening in the fence/trees on your left • Enter through the opening — this is the start of the Uncompahgre River Walk • (Drivers may park in the Visitor Center lot or public lots downtown) 

Difficulty: Easy Distance: ~0.9 miles loop Elevation Gain: ~70–120 ft (very minimal) Type: Loop trail Typical Time: ~15–30 minutes (or up to 1 hour at a relaxed pace, including stops) 

Overview: 

Oak Leaf Trail wanders through the serene riverside and campsite area of Ridgway State Park, just a short drive north of Ouray. The trail loops along the banks of the Uncompahgre River and through gentle wooded areas — a calm, family‑friendly escape offering easy access to water, shade, and sweeping mountain views of the surrounding Sneffels and Cimarron ranges. 

What to Expect: 

● Wide, well‑defined trail with gentle, flat terrain — suitable for hikers of all ages. 

● Passage through or near campsite loops (walk‑in campsites), then along the riverbank — good opportunities for peaceful riverside walking or fishing access. 

● Nice views of the Uncompahgre River, and depending on vantage and time of day, glimpses of surrounding mountains (Sneffels/Cimarron) in the distance. 

● Often used by families, campers, anglers, and walkers looking for a light stroll rather than a strenuous hike. 

Notes: 

● Dogs are allowed — but should be kept on leash (especially near campsites). 

● Some sections may be overgrown depending on season; parts along the river can be muddy or slightly uneven. 

● Because the trail passes through a campground area, it may feel more “shared recreational space” than remote wilderness — expect possible campsite noise, other campers, foot‑traffic, bikes or fishing activity. 

How to Get to the Trailhead from the Ouray Visitors Center: 

● Head North about 10 miles to Ridgway and continue through the only stop light approximately 6–7 miles to reach the Pa‑Co‑Chu‑Puk area of Ridgway State Park (where the Uncompahgre River flows out from the reservoir). 

● Park near the parking/ day‑use area or the Pa‑Co‑Chu‑Puk Campground access (there is a footbridge over the Uncompahgre River). The Oak Leaf Trail begins across that footbridge at the river‑side trailhead. 

Difficulty: Easiest Distance: 0.6–2.0 miles (variable; many access points) Elevation gain: Minimal Type: Out-and-back / riverside stroll Typical time: 20–45 minutes for short walks; 60+ minutes for extended strolls 

Overview / Highlights A relaxed, level path following the Uncompahgre River through Ridgway’s park system—shaded cottonwoods, fishing access points, meadows, benches, and picnic areas. Excellent for families, dog walkers, bikers, photographers, and anyone wanting an easy nature outing. 

What to expect • Mostly level, well-maintained hard-top, gravel, or compacted-dirt paths • Multiple entry points and loop options • Very customizable distance 

Cautions / Notes • Expect wet spots during spring high-water • Parking can be limited on summer weekends • Unique feature: this walkway continues for miles, reaching the reservoirs north of Ridgway • Cyclists can ride from Ouray on County Rd 17 → County Rd 23 → Ridgway → Dennis Weaver Park → reservoirs (approx. 14–15 miles one-way) 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Drive north on US-550 for ~9.7 miles to Ridgway • At the stoplight on Sherman St. (CO-62), turn left • Continue to the Town Park (right side) • Turn right on Railroad St. alongside the park and follow the road past the firehouse • Continue about 1 mile and bear right to the parking lot near the old railroad trestle • Park here — this is the southern entrance to Dennis Weaver Park and the Ridgway River Trail 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~1.3 miles round-trip Elevation gain: ~300–400 ft Type: Out-and-back Typical time: 35–55 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A quieter, lesser-known trail beginning near the north end of Ouray. Following a cool, forested drainage, the trail leads to a picturesque wooden footbridge — an ideal short destination for those wanting a peaceful walk away from crowds. 

What to expect • Moderate grade but not steep • Thick forest canopy, occasional creek crossings, and soft, shaded tread • Excellent birdlife 

Cautions / Notes • Trail beyond the footbridge grows steeper and more rugged — only the lower section is included here 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Drive north (left) on US-550 from the Visitors Center about 1.7 miles • Turn right onto County Road 14 which is also Dexter Creek Road • After about 1 mile, bear left onto County Road 14A • CR 14A becomes Forest Service Road #872 at the National Forest boundary and continues for about 3 miles to Thistle Park. • You can park at Thistle Park and then search for the signed marker beside the creek. 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~1.5–2.0 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: ~250–350 feet Type: Out-and-back Typical Time: 45–75 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A short, scenic path that skirts the dramatic cliffs of the world-famous Ouray Ice Park. The trail offers excellent views into the Uncompahgre Gorge, historic mining remnants, and the impressive terrain used for the annual Ice Festival. Great for visitors wanting a mellow but rewarding walk above the canyon. 

What to Expect The trail rolls gently along a mix of forested benches and exposed rock shelves. You’ll peer into the deep, narrow gorge where winter ice climbs take place. Interpretive signs describe the geology, hydrology, and human history of the area. Expect occasional cliff exposure near viewpoints, but the main path itself remains wide and manageable for most hikers. 

Cautions / Notes • Portions of the trail can be slick if wet. • Do not venture close to the cliff edge—some drop-offs are sheer. • In winter, use caution around ice tools, ropes, and other gear if climbers are active nearby. 

How to Get to the Trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center 

● Turn right (south) on US 550 for a little over one-third mile and turn right on CR 361 

● Follow it up to the first big switchback parking area off on the left and park. 

● Continue walking up the hill from the parking lot and you will come upon a steep trail on the left. There is a trail register just up the hill in a tall stand of spruce. 

Difficulty: Easy → Easy-Moderate Distance: ~0.8 miles one-way (to viewpoint) Elevation gain: about 500 ft Type: Out-and-back or loop Typical time: 20–40 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A short, steady climb to one of Ouray’s signature waterfalls. Cascade Falls drops into a scenic rock amphitheater with wide views back toward town. Popular, quick, and rewarding. 

What to expect • Well-marked trail with a steady uphill grade • Rocky steps and short steeper pitches • Busy during peak months 

Cautions / Notes • Slick when wet — wear footwear with grip and there are short exposed sections near the top of the waterfall. • A short connector to 8th Street allows a loop return 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Walk directly across US-550 • The Cascade Falls trailhead (Perimeter Trail) is immediately visible • Follow the uphill trail to the viewpoint at the top of the falls. • Continue down to 8th Street and walk back to Main Street for a loop 

Difficulty: Easy / Easy‑Intermediate Distance: ~3.9 miles round trip Elevation Gain: ~200 ft maximum (very little climb) Time: ~2.5 to 4 hours Type: Out‑and‑back 

Overview / Highlights 

● The Mears Trail follows in the footsteps of Otto Mears, the famed "Pathfinder of the San Juans. 

● The trail offers sweeping alpine vistas, including views of Ouray, surrounding peaks, and lush forest scenery. 

● Wildlife is present — moose and deer are known to frequent the trail. 

● The terrain is relatively gentle, making it a great hike for families or for a relaxing nature walk. 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center 

● Head south on US‑550 out of Ouray. 

● Drive about 8 miles into the Ironton area 

● Keep an eye on the right side of the road — look for the Crystal Reservoir. 

● There is a pullout / parking area by a historic stone building (old St. Germain Foundation building) that’s considered the trailhead parking. 

● Cross on the path over the dam to the other side and veer left (south) and you will be on the Mears Trail. 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~1.0–1.3 miles round-trip Elevation gain: ~350–450 ft Type: Out-and-back Typical time: 35–55 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A short climb with terrific views back across Ouray and toward the Amphitheater. Forested, quiet, and less traveled than other close-in hikes. Great alternative to the more popular segments of the Perimeter Trail. 

What to expect • Steady uphill grade from the start, with well-defined tread and moderate switchbacks • A beautiful viewpoint appears roughly 0.5–0.7 miles in — this is the turnaround point for the Easy–Moderate version 

Cautions / Notes • Beyond the viewpoint, Oak Creek becomes much steeper and more strenuous; not included in this listing 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center 

• From the Visitor Center, head south on Main Street (US-550) • Turn right onto 7th Avenue • Continue several blocks west and over the bridge and take a left on Oak St. • Turn right on Queen St. • Turn left on Pinecrest Drive and drive uphill to the Oak Creek Trailhead parking pullout • The trail begins at the signed entrance 

Difficulty: Easy to somewhat moderate Distance: 1.5–3.0 miles (depending on chosen segments) Elevation gain: ~200–500 ft Type: Partial loop / multiple access points Typical time: 45–90 minutes 

Overview / Highlights The Perimeter Trail circles Ouray with outstanding views. Selecting some of the easiest segments lets visitors enjoy overlooks, benches, Cascade Falls viewpoints, and gentle terrain without committing to the steeper full loop. 

What to expect • Well-defined singletrack and short, mild uphill sections • Scenic views of town, the Amphitheater, and nearby canyons • A comfortable, scenic introduction to the Perimeter Trail 

Cautions / Notes • Many sections of the full loop are strenuous—this entry covers some of the easiest parts • Loose rock possible on short steeper pitches • Wear sturdy footwear and bring water 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Walk south on Main Street (US-550) • Turn left onto 8th Avenue • Watch for the marked Perimeter Trail entry on the right • From just beyond this point you can view Cascade Falls and then walk a short section on the trail to the 5th Street exit (with a bench overlooking town), or continue toward the Baby Bathtubs segment • If continuing to the Baby Bathtubs segment stop when you reach the bridge over the stream and return back the way you came and return to town on 5th or 8th avenue exits. 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~1.2 miles round-trip Elevation gain: ~350 ft Type: Out-and-back Typical time: 40–60 minutes 

Overview / Highlights This shortened version of the Silvershield Trail leads to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the Uncompahgre River valley and the red rock cliffs of the north end of Ouray. A peaceful forested route with rewarding views for relatively little effort. 

What to expect • Initial switchbacks followed by a gently rising traverse through pine forest • Good footing but occasional loose gravel 

Cautions / Notes • The trail continues steeply upward beyond the viewpoint — only the first section to the overlook is included in this “easy–moderate” listing 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Head north on Main Street (US-550) • Turn left onto County Road 17 • Follow ~0.7 miles along the river to the Silvershield Trailhead parking area on the right • Begin on the signed Silvershield Trail; the viewpoint is reached via the first well-defined switchbacks and traverse 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~1.6–2.0 miles round-trip Elevation gain: ~450–550 ft Type: Out-and-back Typical time: 45–75 minutes 

Overview / Highlights A gorgeous approach to one of the region’s most famous basins. This shortened version of the Weehawken Trail brings hikers through shady forest to the first open meadows with views up the drainage toward Potosi Peak and Whitehouse Mountain. 

What to expect • Steady but manageable grade • Well-maintained trail with switchbacks through spruce and fir • Views improve steadily until the meadows open 

Cautions / Notes • The full Weehawken Trail is strenuous; only the lower meadow segment is rated here. Follow the trail to the first open meadow areas and then return. • The trail may be muddy after storms 

How to get to the trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center • Turn right (south) on US-550 • Drive 0.3 miles and turn right onto CR 361 (Camp Bird Road) • Continue 2.7 miles; the trailhead will be on the right • As a marker, Thistledown Campground will be on the left 

Difficulty: Easy–Moderate Distance: ~2.5 - 3 miles round-trip Elevation Gain: ~250–350 feet Type: Out-and-back Typical Time: 1.0 to 2.0 hours 

Overview / Highlights: Boot Hill is a pleasant, close-to-town trail on the north side of Ridgway that climbs gently through piñon–juniper forest to wide, open viewpoints overlooking the Cimarrons, Mt. Sneffels, and the Ridgway valley. It’s a local favorite for a short, scenic outing with big-sky vistas and minimal difficulty. 

What to Expect: • Smooth, well-established singletrack • Mild, steady elevation gain • Open high-desert terrain with the scent of sage and long views • Occasional wildlife and beautiful morning and evening light. 

Cautions / Notes: • Very little shade—can be hot on sunny afternoons. • Some shared-use sections may include bicycles. • Trail can become dusty in late summer 

How to Get to the Trailhead from the Ouray Visitor Information Center: 

● Turn left (north) on US-550 and drive 10 miles to Ridgway. 

● At the stoplight (highway 62) turn left 

● Drive about a mile to the main town square and turn right on Railroad St 

● Drive about a mile straight until you run into a parking lot on the right. 

● Walk over the bridge at Dennis Weaver park straight to the second bridge and walk over it and turn right onto the trail at the parking lot on your right. 

● Follow the up hill trail until the first plateau and stay on the left hand trail. 

● Take a right on the very next fork and walk to the top of Boot Hill. 

The Blaine Basin Trail is a scenic hike near Ouray, leading through wildflower-filled meadows to a stunning basin beneath Mount Sneffels. With moderate elevation gain, it offers a rewarding trek with breathtaking alpine views.

Distance: 6.1 Miles

Average Time: 4 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1,538 ft

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

The Cutler Creek Trail near Ouray offers a peaceful hike through aspen groves and open meadows with stunning mountain views. Its moderate terrain makes it a great choice for a scenic and quiet adventure.

Distance: 3.1 Miles

Average Time: 2 Hours

Elevation Gain: 784 ft

Yes dogs are allowed, please pick up after them.

Great hike that gets you back into the wilderness area. There are great views for other mountains, mines, and water features. This is a longer hike, so make sure to schedule yourself all day for this. Bring a lunch and plenty of water.

Distance: 8 Miles

Average Time: 8 Hours

The Ouray Perimeter Trail is a scenic 6-mile loop with stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and diverse terrain. This moderate-to-challenging hike offers a rewarding way to explore Ouray’s rugged beauty.

Distance: 6 Miles

Average Time: 3-4 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1499ft up and down

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

Photo by: @The_Big_Bon

This trail does get you up to two magnificent vantage points. The first one is the outstanding view looking back down to Ouray from the south and the second one allows you to see the amazing path of the Bear Creek Trail from across the valley.

There are some steep sections and a couple of rocky “steps” that a young child would need help with. There is no water on the trail.

Distance: 5.5 Miles

Average Time: 3 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1,300

The Wilson Creek Trail is a quiet, scenic hike near Ouray, featuring lush forests, open meadows, and stunning mountain views. Its gentle ascent makes it a great option for a peaceful outdoor escape.road to your car.

Distance: 7.2 Miles

Average Time: 5-6 Hours (Round Trip)

Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

The Bear Creek Trail near Ouray is a challenging hike with steep switchbacks, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking views. This historic route follows a narrow canyon, offering a rugged adventure through the San Juan Mountains.

Distance: In/Out 4.5 Miles

Average Time: 3 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1092 ft

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

The Full Moon Gulch Trail winds through serene forests and open meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. This lesser-known route provides a quiet, scenic retreat near Ouray.

Distance: 4 Miles

Average Time: 4 Hours

Elevation Gain: Less than 2,100 ft

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

This is a short, but very steep, hike. The resulting views, however, make it all worthwhile.

From Oak Street on the west side of town, walk straight up Queen Street; the road curves slightly to the right as you pass the log home on your left. The trail takes off to the right just after a gate. Stop at the overlook and return or you can continue further on this extremely difficult hiking adventure.

Distance: In/Out 5.5 Miles

Average Time: 5 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft

The Silvershield Trail offers stunning views of the Uncompahgre River Valley and surrounding peaks. With steady elevation gain and fewer crowds, it’s a rewarding trek—plus, you can spot dinosaur tracks along the way.

Distance: In/Out 4.3 Miles

Average Time: 3 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1,696 ft

This is a Moderate to Moderate Hard Trail

The Upper Bridge at Box Canyon Falls offers a unique vantage point to view the stunning 285-foot waterfall. A short, scenic walk leads you to the bridge, where you can take in breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding canyon.

Distance: .3 Miles

Average Time: 15 - 30 minutes

Elevation Gain: 177 Ft

This trail system offers access to multiple trails such as Baldy Trail, Storm Gulch Trail, Shortcut Trail, Okeson Trail, Cutler Creek Trail, Left Fork Cutler Creek Trail, and Dexter Creek Trail

Baldy Trail - 6.4 Miles

Storm Gulch Loop - 5.7 Miles

Okeson - 5.8 Miles

Dexter Creek - 8 Miles

Elevation: 1,600 ft

Average Time: 5-9 Hours

Closed June 2, 2025 through August 2025. Learn more here.

The Blue Lakes Trail near Ouray is a challenging 6-mile (one-way) hike that leads to stunning alpine lakes surrounded by rugged peaks. With a steep ascent and breathtaking views, it offers a rewarding adventure for experienced hikers.

Distance: In/Out 12 Miles

Average Time: 6 Hours

Elevation Gain: 2506 ft

*Note, this will be a permitted trail in 2026

The Bridge of Heaven Trail near Ouray is a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and a striking overlook of the valley below. Its steep ascent makes it a rewarding trek for those seeking a bit of adventure.

Distance: 8.6 to 11.2 Miles (depending on where you start)

Average Time: 5.5 - 8 Hours

Elevation Gain: Less than 2,500 ft

Dogs are absolutely allowed! Please remember to pick up after them.

Chief Ouray Mine and its metal buildings are the ones you can see high up in the Amphitheater from the center of Ouray. The actual buildings are just across from a falls section of Upper Cascade Creek.

The Amphitheater is littered with wonderful trails and there are several options for getting to Chief Ouray Mine. One is from the top of Amphitheater Campground. Another is to start from the lower Cascade Falls at 5th Ave. Yet, another is to start out on the Portland Mine Trail and branch left at two different stages to link up with the Upper Cascade Trail.

Although not the longest of trails, this hard slog can be very hot in the summer and is steep in places that has no water at all until the very top and some people find the downhill difficult. Nevertheless it is a classic and surely one to try while in Ouray.

Distance: In/Out 4.3 Miles

Average Time: 4 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1,955 ft

The trail offers incredible views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains and wildflower-filled meadows during the summer months. With an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet, it’s a challenging hike, but the turquoise lake at the end makes the effort worthwhile. The route also provides opportunities for spotting wildlife, including marmots and mountain goats, making it a rewarding experience for adventurous hikers.

Distance: 6.6 Miles

Average Time: 5 Hours

Elevation Gain: 2539 Ft

The Dallas Corbett Loop near Ouray is a 5.5-mile hike through aspen forests and meadows, offering stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. With moderate elevation gain, it provides a peaceful retreat in nature.

Distance: 6 Miles

Average Time: 5-6 Miles

Elevation Gain: 2000 Ft

There are a couple of routes you can take to get up Hayden Mountain. Two from Camp Bird Road and two from Ironton. You gain about 3,200 feet in elevation and can be slippery coming down. The peak is 12,578 feet

Distance:

4.4 Miles to the ridge and back

11.2 Miles if you go all the way to Ironton

Elevation: 2000 Ft

Average Time: 5 Hours

The Horse Thief Trail near Ouray is a scenic, moderate hike that offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This trail winds through aspen groves and rugged terrain, with a rewarding overlook at the end. It’s a great option for those seeking a peaceful, yet adventurous hike.

Distance: 6.5 Miles

Average Time: 5 Hours

Elevation Gain: 1760 Ft

Mount Sneffels is a challenging, 14,150-foot peak near Ouray that offers a rewarding climb for experienced hikers and mountaineers. The route features rugged terrain, stunning alpine views, and a thrilling summit experience.

Distance:

5.4 Miles from Yankee Boy Basin

3.5 Miles from Wright’s Lake

2.1 Miles from top trailhead

Average Time: 6-9 Hours