PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Your complete guide to visiting Ouray, Colorado. From where to stay and what to pack, to the best trails and local dining — everything you need to plan the perfect mountain getaway.
When to Visit— Every Season is Adventure Season.
Ouray offers world-class outdoor experiences year-round. Here's what each season has in store.
Summer Adventures
May through October brings via ferrata, rock climbing, hiking, jeep trails, and natural hot springs. Long days and wildflower-filled meadows make this the peak season for adventure.
Fall & Spring
Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds, stunning fall colors, and crisp spring mornings. Ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and soaking in the hot springs without the summer rush.
Winter Adventures
November through March delivers world-class ice climbing at Ouray Ice Park, backcountry ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cozy evenings by the fire after a day on the ice.
WHAT TO BRING
Gear We Provide
Helmets, harnesses, ropes, ice tools, and all technical climbing gear is included with your guided adventure. Just show up ready to climb.
Clothing Layers
Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof shell. Conditions change quickly in the mountains — layering is key.
Footwear & Accessories
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, warm gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. We'll provide approach shoes or climbing-specific footwear if needed.
Personal Essentials
Water bottle, snacks, camera, and a small daypack. Don't forget your sense of adventure and a willingness to push your comfort zone.
WHERE TO STAY
Our trusted lodging partners offer a range of accommodations — from rustic cabins to full-service hotels — all within minutes of Ouray's best adventures.
A charming riverside retreat in the heart of Ouray, offering comfortable rooms with mountain views and easy access to local hot springs.
Cozy chalet-style lodging nestled among the San Juan Mountains, perfect for families and groups looking for a home-away-from-home experience.
A classic Ouray stay with natural hot springs on-site, combining affordable comfort with the town's famous geothermal waters.
A historic hotel offering a unique blend of Old West charm and modern amenities, right on Main Street in downtown Ouray.
Spacious lodge-style accommodations with stunning mountain views, ideal for adventure seekers who want to unwind after a day on the trails.
Full-service lodge featuring private hot springs pools, a restaurant, and easy walking distance to Ouray's shops and trails.
Reliable and comfortable lodging with all the essentials for a great Ouray visit, including continental breakfast and mountain views.
Rustic cabin rentals surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and private mountain retreat just minutes from downtown Ouray.
A welcoming inn with comfortable rooms and friendly service, providing a great base camp for exploring everything Ouray has to offer.
Planning a Group Adventure?
Bachelor parties, team outings, youth camps, and groups of 10+ welcome. We'll customize the perfect experience.
Beloved local spot for authentic Mexican food and margaritas. A must-visit after a day on the mountain.
Classic American dining with steaks, burgers, and hearty mountain fare in a rustic setting.
Home-style comfort food that hits the spot after a long day of climbing. Great breakfasts too.
Handcrafted chocolates and specialty coffee drinks. The perfect fuel for your morning adventure.
Upscale Italian dining in a historic Ouray building. Perfect for a special evening out after your climb.
Laid-back atmosphere with great burgers, craft beers, and mountain views. A local favorite.
Classic pub fare with a great selection of local craft beers. Live music on weekends.
Authentic Thai cuisine tucked away in the mountains. Fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious.
LOCAL'S FAVORITE HIKES
Our guides' top picks for exploring Ouray on foot — from quick waterfall walks to full-day alpine adventures.
Perimeter Trail
A scenic loop trail encircling Ouray with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Great for all fitness levels.
Bear Creek Trail
A classic Ouray hike leading to a beautiful waterfall. Moderately steep with rewarding views of the Uncompahgre Gorge along the way.
Blue Lakes Trail
A stunning alpine lake hike above treeline with turquoise waters set against dramatic peaks. One of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado.
Box Canyon Falls
A short walk to a thundering 285-foot waterfall in a narrow canyon. A must-see Ouray attraction that's accessible for the whole family.
Portland Trail
A well-maintained trail offering sweeping views of Ouray and the Amphitheater. Connects to the Perimeter Trail for a longer loop option.
Bridge of Heaven
An epic ridgeline traverse requiring scrambling skills and a head for heights. Jaw-dropping exposure and views — for experienced hikers only.
OUR PARTNERS
The brands and organizations that make Ouray's adventure community thrive.
Rab
Official outerwear partner of Basecamp Ouray. High-performance technical clothing and equipment designed for extreme mountain conditions.
CAMP
Official gear partner of Basecamp Ouray. CAMP is proud to keep the BCO team geared up all season long with world-class climbing equipment.
Ouray Mountain Sports
Your local outfitter for all your gear needs. Located right in downtown Ouray with everything from climbing gear to hiking essentials.
Rocky Talkie
Official communication partner of Basecamp Ouray. Reliable two-way radio communication for outdoor adventures and mountain safety.
Canyoning Colorado
Expert-led canyoneering adventures through Colorado's most spectacular slot canyons and waterfall rappels.
Ouray Adventure Center
Your hub for Ouray adventures including ATV tours, horseback riding, and winter activities.
Ouray Ice Park
The world's first public ice climbing park, featuring over 200 ice and mixed climbing routes in a stunning natural canyon.
Friends of Ouray Via Ferrata
A non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and preserving the Via Ferrata routes for future generations.
Gold Mountain Ranch
A stunning private ranch offering guided adventures and exclusive access to Ouray's backcountry terrain.
Blue Marble VR
Virtual reality experiences that bring Ouray's adventures to life — perfect for previewing your trip or reliving the memories.
Elevation Weddings & Events
Plan your dream mountain wedding or corporate event in Ouray's breathtaking alpine setting.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Have questions about lodging, gear, or what to expect? Drop us a line and we'll help you plan the perfect Ouray adventure.