Baby Bathtubs Trail
Discover the unique 'baby bathtubs' carved into rocks along a scenic creek trail in Ouray, Colorado. Perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snowmelt feeds the tubs
Baby Bathtubs Trail
Best Time
Snowmelt feeds the tubs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the unique 'baby bathtubs' carved into rocks along a scenic creek trail in Ouray, Colorado. Perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
"Fantastic place for the kids to play in the streams. Plenty of little areas to play in."
🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential
Bring waterproof hiking boots or water shoes for exploring the creek and wet rocks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends will love exploring the water and trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Baby Bathtubs'
Along the creek
Natural rock formations creating shallow pools perfect for wading and playing.
Creek Stomping Adventure
The creek bed
Leap from rock to rock along the shallow, clear creek for an invigorating outdoor experience.
Scenic Canyon Views
Along the trail
Enjoy picturesque views of the small canyon and surrounding landscape as you hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water Play
Timing is Key for Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential
Bring waterproof hiking boots or water shoes for exploring the creek and wet rocks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends will love exploring the water and trail.
☀️ Beat the Heat
This trail is a fantastic way to cool off on a hot day with plenty of water play.
👨👩👧👦 Kid Paradise
Perfect for children of all ages, offering safe and engaging water features.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Waterproof Footwear Essential
Bring waterproof hiking boots or water shoes for exploring the creek and wet rocks.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Your furry friends will love exploring the water and trail.
☀️ Beat the Heat
This trail is a fantastic way to cool off on a hot day with plenty of water play.
👨👩👧👦 Kid Paradise
Perfect for children of all ages, offering safe and engaging water features.
🚗 Easy Parking
Parking is available along the road with ample space for turning around.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Baby Bathtubs Trail for its unique geological formations and family-friendly water play. It's a highly recommended short hike, especially for those with children, offering a refreshing escape and beautiful scenery. Some note that water levels can be low in late summer, and restrooms are not readily available.
"3rd week in April visit after a night of snow. Trail wasn't bad. Only walked in maybe 1/2 mile. Easy parking along the road and room to turn about. Shallow water along most parts of trail. Good to have water proof hiking boots as we did this time of year. We didnt see any public restrooms near by. A good view of downtown can be seen from the road. We and the dog enjoyed our time. It's worth a stop. We would go again."
Heather Hinrichs
"Water levels were very low in August, but there was still enough for a bit of fun. The unique geologic formations made it worth the hike. It connects to other trails if you want a longer hike, but with 2 kids we were happy for a short (but steep) hike with water play."
Melody Garcia
"Fantastic place for the kids to play in the streams. Plenty of little areas to play in. Hike was not long or difficult. Great place to go to get out of the heat of the day."
Andrew Qucsai Jr.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is easily accessible from Ouray, Colorado. Parking is available along the road near the trailhead, making it convenient for visitors.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most common way to reach the Baby Bathtubs Trail.
From downtown Ouray, head south on Highway 550. The trailhead will be accessible from the road. Look for parking areas along the roadside.
The Baby Bathtubs Trail is generally considered part of the Perimeter Trail system and is usually well-marked, though it's always good to have a map or GPS.
Yes, the trail is accessible in winter, but conditions can be icy and snowy. Waterproof boots are essential, and caution is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Baby Bathtubs Trail is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's free to access and enjoy.
The trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, daylight hours are best for safety and enjoyment, especially for families.
There is no reservation system for the Baby Bathtubs Trail. You can visit anytime.
No permits are required for general hiking on the Baby Bathtubs Trail. It's a public access area.
No booking is necessary. Simply drive to the location and enjoy the trail at your leisure.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered easy to moderate, with some short, steep sections. It's very family-friendly and not overly strenuous.
The main section with the bathtubs is relatively short, but you can extend your hike by following the creek or connecting to the Perimeter Trail for a longer adventure.
You'll see unique rock formations carved by water over time, creating the 'baby bathtubs' and cascades. It's a fascinating display of natural erosion.
Public restrooms are not typically available directly at the trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive.
Bring waterproof shoes, swimwear if you plan to get wet, towels, sunscreen, water, and snacks. A camera is also recommended!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique 'bathtubs' filled with water, the cascading creek, and the surrounding canyon scenery. Wide-angle lenses are great for the landscape.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
While not a primary wildlife viewing area, you might spot small birds or insects. Patience is key for any wildlife photography.
Experiment with slower shutter speeds to capture the silky effect of flowing water, or use faster speeds to freeze the motion of splashes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Pack water shoes or waterproof boots, towels, and a change of clothes. It's an ideal spot to cool off on a hot day and let kids explore the creek. Many families find it to be a highlight of their Ouray visit.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key recommendations: Ensure your dog is on a leash and be mindful of other hikers. They'll enjoy the water and the chance to stretch their legs in a beautiful natural setting.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Day-Trippers
Key recommendations: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared to take photos of the fascinating rock formations. It's an excellent stop for a quick dose of nature and a refreshing break.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Unique Geology
These formations are not just visually interesting; they create micro-habitats for small aquatic life and provide natural wading pools. The trail itself follows the creek, allowing you to witness the ongoing process of erosion and the beauty it creates. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about natural processes in a hands-on way, especially for children.
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer uniqueness of these rock features. They offer a stark contrast to the rugged mountain landscape of Ouray, providing a gentler, more intimate natural experience. The accessibility of these formations makes the trail a popular choice for families and those seeking a less strenuous outdoor activity.
Family Fun and Water Play
The trail's short length and moderate difficulty mean that even little legs can manage the hike. The reward of reaching the 'bathtubs' and having a natural playground waiting for them is a huge draw. It's often described as a perfect spot to escape the summer heat and let kids burn off energy in a beautiful natural setting.
Tips from parents often include bringing extra clothes, towels, and water shoes. The opportunity for creek stomping and rock hopping is irresistible for many children. It’s a place where memories are made, with the unique rock formations providing endless entertainment.
Connecting Trails and Extended Hikes
For those looking for a longer adventure, continuing on the Perimeter Trail from the Baby Bathtubs can lead you to different viewpoints, more challenging ascents, and a deeper exploration of the surrounding San Juan Mountains. This connectivity makes the Baby Bathtubs a great starting point or a pleasant stop on a longer trek.
Redditors often discuss combining the Baby Bathtubs with other sections of the Perimeter Trail for a half-day or full-day outing. This allows visitors to tailor their experience based on their fitness level and desired scenery, from gentle creek walks to more strenuous mountain hikes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit