| Tucked into a dramatic box canyon along the San Juan Skyway, Ouray is one of Colorados most striking towns. The San Juan Mountains rule here - continue west, and prepare to climb Red Mountain Pass, one of the states most arduous roads and a gateway to the famed Million Dollar Highway.Gold and silver mining history is still very alive in Ouray, where numerous shaft remnants linger just outside town. Roads like Engineer and Imogene Pass, leading right from town, make for exciting jeep tours. If there is only have time for one, consider Yankee Boy Basin, which is full of tumbling rock spires, wildflowers (in summer), and old mines.The Uncompahgre National Forest, surrounding Ouray, is an excellent place for hiking and camping. Summer is top tourist season here since Ouray, troubled by serious snowstorms, closes many of its doors during the winter. Cross-country skiing atop Red Mountain Pass, however, is tough to beat for winter scenery, and the recently upgraded in-town ice park offers thrilling ice climbing throughout the cold season. For a warm-up, test the 104-degree geothermal water draining from Canyon Creek at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool. |
