Ouray

Ouray is a town in Ouray County, Colorado, sitting at 2,375 meters elevation between rugged peaks of the San Juan Mountains. The main street runs through a narrow valley flanked by steep rock walls from which several waterfalls cascade down.

The settlement formed in 1875 during the silver and gold rush and took its name from Chief Ouray of the Ute people. Official incorporation came in October 1876, shortly after Colorado became a state.

South of town runs a footpath called the Perimeter Trail along the mountainside, used by locals for evening walks. Along this route stand panels telling stories of former miners and their settlements.

The main street remains open year-round, while several mountain passes in the area only operate during summer months. Visitors find parking in the town center and can reach most facilities on foot.

In the canyons around town stands the first ice climbing park in the world, where athletes scale frozen waterfalls. These icy formations attract numerous climbers from different countries every year who train here and participate in competitions.

Location: Ouray County

Elevation above the sea: 2,375 m

Website: http://ci.ouray.co.us

GPS coordinates: 38.02330,-107.67200

Latest update: December 13, 2025 06:06