The best walks and hikes in Ouray County

Hike the Blue Lakes Trail for a moderate journey into the heart of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. This 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route involves a gentle 22 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete. As you walk, you will be surrounded by rugged peaks, including the impressive 14,150-foot Mt. Sneffels. The highlight is reaching the pristine, turquoise-green waters of the Upper Blue Lake. During summer, the meadows along the trail come alive with vibrant wildflowers, adding to the picturesque views.

Planning your visit to the Blue Lakes Trail is straightforward, but keep a few things in mind. The trail is quite popular, especially on weekends and throughout the peak season from July to October. While you do not currently need a permit for day hiking, be aware that a permit system for the Mount Sneffels Wilderness is expected to be implemented in the coming years. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during busy times, so an early start is often a good idea.

The Blue Lakes Trail is notable for its stunning alpine environment, offering a true immersion into the high country of the Mount Sneffels Wilderness. This area is characterized by its dramatic peaks and clear mountain lakes, providing a classic Colorado hiking experience. The trail's popularity stems from its accessibility and the rewarding views of the Upper Blue Lake, making it a standout option for those seeking a moderate day hike with significant scenic payoff.

Embark on the Rat Trails Southern loop, a moderate hike spanning 10.5 miles (16.9 km) with an elevation gain of 1342 feet (409 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 4 hours and 46 minutes. As you hike, you will experience a high-desert environment in the foothills of the San Juan Mountains, encountering interesting rock formations and enjoying expansive views of the surrounding peaks and the Ridgway Reservoir. The trail offers a smooth and flowing experience, though be prepared for some sections with steep climbs and loose rock.

Before you head out, remember that the Rat Trails are generally well-signed, and you will find maps at major intersections to help with navigation. It is important to note that the trails are subject to seasonal closures, typically from December 1st to May 1st each year. Always check for current conditions before your visit to ensure the route is open and safe for hiking.

This multi-use network is particularly known for its clever rat-themed names, which add a unique and playful backdrop to your adventure in the Ridgway Area Trails. The well-built trails provide a solid workout and a rewarding experience for anyone looking to explore the San Juan Mountains' foothills.

Embark on the Silvershield Trail for a moderate hike that delivers rewarding views over a distance of 2.1 miles (3.4 km). You will gain 1607 feet (490 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 1 hour and 28 minutes. As you ascend, the route offers expansive vistas of the San Juan Mountains, the town of Ouray, and the dramatic Uncompahgre Gorge, with Cañon Creek winding far below.

Planning your visit requires sturdy footwear, as the path can be rocky and uneven in places. Trekking poles are also recommended to provide extra stability, especially on steeper sections. Be aware that some parts of the trail are narrow and high, so you should exercise caution as you navigate these areas.

Beyond the stunning scenery, the Silvershield Trail holds a unique geological highlight: the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Trackway. Here, you can discover 150-million-year-old fossilized footprints etched into sandstone layers, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history within the Uncompahgre National Forest.

The Ouray Ice Park Perimeter Loop offers a diverse and captivating hiking experience, encircling the scenic town of Ouray, Colorado. You'll journey through forests, meadows, and rocky sections, encountering cliff paths, stairs, and switchbacks, all while enjoying panoramic vistas of the San Juan Mountains and the charming town below. Keep an eye out for natural wonders like Cascade Falls and the Ouray Ice Park, and even a hidden troll or "rocktopus" along the way.

This moderate 2.9-mile (4.6 km) route, with 559 feet (170 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. The trail has multiple access points, allowing you to customize your hike. If you plan to visit in winter, be prepared for snow and ice, and make sure to bring traction devices like microspikes for safety.

What makes this trail truly stand out is how it seamlessly connects many of Ouray's most significant attractions, including the world-renowned Ouray Ice Park and Box Canyon Falls. Its varied terrain and constant offering of breathtaking views create a unique and memorable hiking experience, perfect for those looking for a rewarding outing without a full-day commitment.

The Dexter Creek Trail offers a rewarding moderate hike, immediately gaining elevation through switchbacks from the historic Bachelor Gold Mine. Over its 2.9 miles (4.7 km) length, you will climb 1804 feet (550 metres), a journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes. As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the impressive 12,000-foot ridges of Cascade Mountain and the distant Wetterhorn Peak.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking generally available at the trailhead. If you are considering an overnight stay, primitive campsites are located near the start of the route. Remember that the trail enters the Uncompahgre Wilderness Area, so be sure to familiarize yourself with and adhere to all wilderness regulations to preserve this natural environment.

This route provides a unique glimpse into the region's mining past, passing the ruins of the Almadi and Old Maid Mines as you climb. Beyond the historical elements, the trail is notable for its expansive alpine vistas, offering clear views of Courthouse Mountain and the Cimarron Mountains to the east, and the majestic Sneffels Range surrounding Ouray to the west.

Embark on the Wrights Lake Trail for a moderate hike that offers a solid workout and scenic rewards. This route covers 1.5 miles (2.5 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 928 feet (283 metres), which you can complete in about 1 hour and 2 minutes. As you navigate the path, you will encounter some steep sections, leading you to the beautiful blue Wrights Lake, which appears heart-shaped from certain viewpoints, providing a memorable visual anchor for your journey.

To begin your adventure, you will find convenient parking available at the Yankee Boy Basin trailhead, which serves as the primary starting point for this route. The trail is easily accessible, making it a straightforward option for those looking to explore the area. Consider starting your hike earlier in the day to enjoy the tranquility and avoid potential crowds, especially during peak seasons.

The Wrights Lake Trail is often enjoyed as a complementary extension for hikers exploring the longer Yankee Boy Basin Trail, allowing you to combine experiences and see more of the Uncompahgre National Forest. This connection highlights its role within the broader network of trails in the region, offering picturesque views and a rewarding experience for anyone seeking a shorter, yet impactful, outdoor excursion.

Hike the Red Mountain Mining Area OHV Trail and discover a landscape painted in fiery red and orange, a result of iron pyrite in the slopes. This easy 2.3-mile (3.8 km) route takes you through Uncompahgre National Forest, offering views of jagged peaks and alpine meadows. You will gain 638 feet (194 metres) in elevation, a journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes. Look for the historic Yankee Girl headframe, a striking reminder of the area's mining past, standing over a 1,200-foot vertical shaft. The trail also provides glimpses of the Million Dollar Highway winding far below in the valley.

Prepare for thinner air and changing weather conditions due to the high elevation of this area. The terrain can be uneven with loose rocks, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear for your hike. While this is primarily an OHV route, hikers can enjoy the path; just be aware of potential vehicle traffic as you explore.

This trail offers a unique blend of history and alpine scenery, characteristic of the San Juan Mountains. The distinctive red and orange slopes are a direct result of iron pyrite, giving the mountains their name. The well-preserved Yankee Girl headframe highlights the rich mining history that shaped this region.

The Portland Trail Loop offers a fantastic introduction to hiking near Ouray, winding through mixed conifers and grassy pastures on singletrack paths. You'll experience a varied landscape with both gradual climbs and steeper sections, all while enjoying close-up views of the impressive Amphitheater, a sculpted volcanic rock formation that dominates the skyline. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) loop, with its 716 feet (218 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it a great option for a quick outing.

Planning your visit to this accessible trail is straightforward, as it's a popular choice for those in the Ouray area. It's particularly well-suited for individuals looking to acclimate to the region's altitude, offering a manageable challenge without being overly strenuous. Consider an evening hike to see the Amphitheater's unique colors come alive in the changing light.

What truly sets the Portland Trail Loop apart is its unique geological setting directly beneath the striking Amphitheater. This volcanic formation, with its intricate vertical cuts, provides a memorable backdrop to your hike. Beyond the Amphitheater, you'll also catch panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains from various clearings, adding to the scenic rewards of this easy-to-moderate route.

The Mineral Creek OHV Trail near Ouray, Colorado, offers a unique and challenging hiking experience, primarily known as a demanding route for off-highway vehicles. As you ascend, the trail climbs significantly through a thin canyon, transitioning from treed lower sections to open, expansive vistas above the tree line. You'll encounter rocky terrain, shelf roads, and narrow passages, with highlights including hidden waterfalls at the entrance to Poughkeepsie Gulch and historical mining remnants like the Michael Breen Mine.

This difficult 7.1-mile (11.5 km) route, with 3193 feet (973 metres) of elevation gain, is not a traditional hiking trail and is heavily trafficked by 4x4s. It's best suited for experienced hikers prepared for rugged conditions and sharing the path with vehicles, taking approximately 3 hours and 51 minutes to complete. Plan your visit during the warmer months when the trail is clear of snow, and be mindful of vehicle traffic.

Historically, this trail served as a vital connection for prospectors and stagecoaches in the late 19th century, linking Ouray to the Alpine Loop and Engineer Pass. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich mining past, with remnants of the former town of Mineral Point (Mineral City) along the way. While primarily an OHV route, it provides a distinctive adventure for hikers seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical exploration.