Located in the heart of the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, Ouray is an unforgettable winter getaway offering alpine adventure as well as deep relaxation. Pronounced “yur-AY,” the mining town was incorporated in 1876 and named for the highly respected indigenous Chief Ouray of the Ute Nation.
ICE, ICE BABY
Outdoor thrill-seekers of all skill levels can harness up and try their hand — and ice tools — at climbing frozen waterfalls in Ouray Ice Park. Open mid-December through March, the free public park boasts more than 150 climbing routes along 2 miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge. If you visit in the new year, be sure to check out the 31st Annual Ouray Ice Festival January 22–25 when elite pro athletes compete and teach climbing clinics.
Local experts at San Juan Mountain Guides offer personal instruction and rental gear for ice climbing, avalanche rescue training, and high-altitude mountaineering — perfect for beginner or advanced adventure enthusiasts — all winter long.
Learn more at https://mtnguide.net
See Ice Park conditions at https://ourayicepark.com
SOAK IT IN
Splash and play or recover from a busy day at the family-friendly Ouray Hot Springs Pool. The famous sulfur-free geothermal hot springs offer a variety of experiences and temperatures, including a lap pool, overlook pool, activity pool, and more.
Learn more at https://visitouray.com/ourayhotspringspool
KICK OFF THE HOLIDAYS
Get into the holiday spirit during Yule Day — the town’s festive annual celebration held the first Saturday in December. Take the kids to story time, go on a scavenger hunt, and meet Santa Claus himself. Enjoy artisan shops, free hot chocolate, the community tree lighting ceremony at dusk, and a holiday parade down Main Street around 6 p.m. It’s a full day of fun for the whole family.
Find information at https://visitouray.com/yuleday
WHERE TO STAY
For a blend of modern luxury and rich local history, consider staying at the iconic Beaumont Hotel where President Theodore Roosevelt once slept; the Western Hotel built in 1891 with its famed Grotto Spa; or The Imogene, a fully renovated former saloon from the Wild West days.
Several hotels offer a “stay two nights, get third free” winter promotion November through April. More lodging options for all budgets can be found at https://visitouray.com
