The Best Things to Do in Ouray, Colorado, This Fall
Surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls and colorful mountainsides, Ouray is one of the best day trips to take during a stay at Silverton Lakes RV Park.
The adventure begins with a drive over Red Mountain Pass on the Million Dollar Highway. During fall, this section of Highway 550 becomes even more impressive as golden aspens cover the mountainsides and frame the historic mining structures scattered throughout the valley.
Once you arrive in the “Switzerland of America,” you can fill your day with locally roasted coffee, outdoor adventures, waterfalls, burgers, craft beer and a relaxing soak in naturally heated mineral water.
Here are a few of our favorite places to visit during a fall day in Ouray, Colorado.
Begin With the Drive from Silverton to Ouray
Ouray is approximately 24 miles north of Silverton, but this is one drive you should never rush.
Highway 550 travels over Red Mountain Pass and through some of the most dramatic scenery in the San Juan Mountains. In the fall, the surrounding hillsides become covered in shades of gold, yellow and orange.
Leave Silverton Lakes RV Park early so you have time to stop at designated overlooks along the way. Never stop in the roadway, and remain focused while driving. The Million Dollar Highway includes steep grades, sharp curves and exposed sections that require your full attention.
Mountain weather can change quickly, especially during fall. Check the weather and road conditions before leaving Silverton, and bring warm layers for your day in Ouray.
Start Your Morning at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee
Your first stop should be Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee on Main Street.
This locally loved shop makes its chocolates by hand and roasts coffee in Ouray. It is a great place to grab a warm drink after the cool morning drive over Red Mountain Pass.
Our favorite treat is the scrap cookie. These cookies are filled with a changing mixture of candy and chocolate scraps, so you never know exactly what will be inside.
Order coffee and a scrap cookie to enjoy as you walk along Main Street, admire the historic buildings and take in the mountains surrounding town.
Experience the Ouray Via Ferrata
If you want to add a serious thrill to your day, book a guided experience on the Ouray Via Ferrata.
A Via Ferrata is a protected climbing route that uses iron rungs, cables, ladders and bridges to help participants travel across exposed mountain terrain. Ouray’s route follows the Uncompahgre Gorge and includes narrow canyon walls, climbing sections and suspended cable bridges.
The route is approximately 1.25 kilometers long and generally takes between two and three and a half hours to complete. It requires significant arm and leg strength and includes areas with substantial exposure.
Although public access to the Via Ferrata is free, every participant must use approved equipment and follow the route’s safety requirements. If you are new to climbing or unfamiliar with Via Ferrata systems, we strongly recommend reserving a professionally guided tour. A guide can provide proper equipment, explain the safety system and help you navigate the route confidently.
The Via Ferrata operates seasonally and may close because of weather or unsafe conditions. Confirm its operating status and reserve your guide before traveling to Ouray.
Visit Box Cañon Falls
Whether you complete the Via Ferrata or prefer to keep your feet closer to the ground, Box Cañon Falls Park is a must-see.
Canyon Creek plunges through a narrow quartzite gorge, creating a powerful waterfall that you can experience after an easy 500-foot walk. The park also provides access to the High Bridge, a perimeter trail and a seasonal nature center.
Box Cañon Falls is a great place to stretch your legs before or after driving Red Mountain Pass. The short walk into the canyon feels completely different from the open mountain views along the highway.
Fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful seasonal color to the surrounding landscape, but the canyon itself can feel cool and damp. Wear shoes with good traction and bring a light jacket.
Dogs are not permitted inside Box Cañon Falls Park, so guests traveling with pets should plan accordingly.
Stop at Maggie’s Kitchen for a Burger
After a morning of exploring, head to Maggie’s Kitchen for a casual lunch.
Maggie’s is a local favorite known for burgers, sandwiches and salads. Its Main Street patio also offers views of downtown Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
We especially recommend stopping here when you want a great burger without turning lunch into a formal event. It is an easy, relaxed addition to an adventure-filled day.
Hours can change during the fall and other shoulder seasons, so check the current schedule before planning your visit.
Try a Local Beer at Ouray Brewery
Craft beer lovers should also make time for Ouray Brewery.
Located in the heart of town, this family-owned brewpub serves award-winning craft beer and hearty American pub food. If the fall weather cooperates, head to the rooftop for nearly 360-degree views of Ouray and the surrounding canyon.
It is a beautiful place to take in the scenery and sample something brewed locally.
If you are driving back to Silverton, enjoy responsibly. Red Mountain Pass requires a focused and sober driver. Travelers who want to sample multiple beers should designate a driver or choose beer to take home and enjoy after returning to the campground.
End Your Day at the Ouray Hot Springs
After climbing, walking and exploring downtown, finish your Ouray adventure with a soak at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool.
The facility features several pools supplied with naturally heated, sulfur-free mineral water. Pool temperatures vary, allowing guests to choose between a comfortable swim and a warmer, more relaxing soak.
The surrounding mountains make the hot springs especially beautiful during fall. Settle into the warm water while enjoying the cooler air and colorful scenery around the Uncompahgre Valley.
The Ouray Hot Springs Pool is family-friendly, with specific pool areas and amenities available seasonally. Check current hours, admission prices and maintenance notices before your visit.
Return to Silverton Lakes RV Park
After your soak, travel south on Highway 550 and return to Silverton Lakes RV Park.
Allow enough time to complete the drive before dark whenever possible. Red Mountain Pass can feel very different after sunset, particularly when temperatures drop or fall weather moves into the area.
Once you return, settle into your campsite or cabin and relax beneath the San Juan Mountain sky.
Build Your Perfect Ouray Day Trip
Depending on your interests and energy level, your day could include:
- Coffee and a scrap cookie at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee
- A guided adventure on the Ouray Via Ferrata
- A walk to Box Cañon Falls
- A burger at Maggie’s Kitchen
- A locally brewed beer at Ouray Brewery
- A relaxing soak in the Ouray Hot Springs
Trying to fit every stop into one day may feel rushed, especially if you complete the Via Ferrata. Choose the experiences that interest you most, or stay an additional night at Silverton Lakes RV Park and return to Ouray for a second day.
Stay Near the Best of the San Juan Mountains
Silverton Lakes RV Park gives you a comfortable home base for exploring Silverton, Ouray, Durango and the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
From scenic fall drives and historic mountain towns to waterfalls, climbing adventures and natural hot springs, there is always another experience waiting just beyond the campground.
Reserve your fall stay at Silverton Lakes RV Park and discover some of our favorite places in Ouray, Colorado.