Perimeter Trail Ouray Colorado
A spectacular 6.5-mile loop encircling Ouray, Colorado, offering stunning mountain vistas, waterfalls, and the iconic Box Canyon Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden aspens & fewer crowds
Perimeter Trail Ouray Colorado
Best Time
Golden aspens & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A spectacular 6.5-mile loop encircling Ouray, Colorado, offering stunning mountain vistas, waterfalls, and the iconic Box Canyon Falls.
"The Ouray Perimeter Trail is a must-do for its incredible views and natural beauty!"
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail has varied terrain; good hiking boots are essential for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderately challenging hike, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Box Canyon Falls
Along the Perimeter Trail
Witness the dramatic 250-foot falls cascading through a narrow gorge. A must-see feature of the trail.
High Bridge Views
Over Box Canyon
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains from this iconic bridge.
Cascading Waterfalls
Various points on the trail
The trail offers glimpses of several beautiful waterfalls, adding to the natural splendor of the hike.
Town Overlooks
Various points on the trail
Enjoy picturesque overlooks of the charming town of Ouray nestled in the valley below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail has varied terrain; good hiking boots are essential for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderately challenging hike, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Download Offline Map
Cell service is unreliable. An offline map ensures you won't get lost. :iphone:
Check Weather Daily
Mountain weather changes fast! Be prepared for sun, rain, or even snow. :cloudwithrain:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail has varied terrain; good hiking boots are essential for grip and comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this moderately challenging hike, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Download Offline Map
Cell service is unreliable. An offline map ensures you won't get lost. :iphone:
Check Weather Daily
Mountain weather changes fast! Be prepared for sun, rain, or even snow. :cloudwithrain:
Look for the Mural
Spot the 'Full Tilt' brewery mural from the trail for a fun town landmark. :beer:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ouray Perimeter Trail for its absolutely breathtaking scenery, diverse terrain, and the iconic Box Canyon Falls. Many highlight the stunning mountain vistas and the charm of Ouray visible from the trail. Some find the elevation gain and rocky sections challenging, and recommend proper footwear and preparation.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ouray Perimeter Trail is easily accessible from town. A common starting point is near the Ouray Visitor Center, across from the hot springs. You can also find trail access points throughout Ouray.
Parking can be found in Ouray, particularly near the Visitor Center and hot springs. During peak season, it's advisable to arrive early or consider walking from your accommodation.
Yes, Box Canyon Falls is a key feature along the Perimeter Trail, and you can access the trail from the falls area.
The trail itself is for foot traffic only. Access roads and parking in Ouray may have limitations for larger vehicles, so check local parking regulations.
Ouray is typically reached by car. The scenic Million Dollar Highway (US-550) connects Ouray to Durango and Silverton. The nearest major airports are in Montrose (MTJ) and Grand Junction (GJT).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ouray Perimeter Trail is a public trail and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to access and hike.
The trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking in winter can be hazardous due to snow and ice.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to access Box Canyon Falls Park, which includes access to the falls and some sections of the Perimeter Trail.
Absolutely! You can access various points of the trail and hike shorter segments if you don't want to complete the full loop.
No permits are required for hiking the Ouray Perimeter Trail. It's a public access trail.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Ouray Perimeter Trail is considered moderately challenging. It's a 6.5-mile loop with approximately 1,600 feet of elevation gain, featuring steep sections and uneven terrain.
Most hikers complete the 6.5-mile loop in 3 to 5 hours, depending on their pace, fitness level, and how often they stop for photos.
Expect stunning panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Wilderness, and the town of Ouray. You'll also see waterfalls and unique rock formations. 
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Ouray Perimeter Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy hiking boots. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Don't forget sun protection like a hat and sunscreen.
📸 📸 Photography
The high bridge over Box Canyon Falls offers incredible views. Other great spots include overlooks of Ouray, cascading waterfalls, and areas with vibrant fall foliage.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views of the dramatic mountain scenery.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near Box Canyon Falls and within town limits. Always check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Keep an eye out for the 'Full Tilt' brewery mural visible from the trail, and the dramatic geological formations of Box Canyon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Key tips for families:
* Start early: Beat the heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms.
* Pack plenty of snacks and water: Essential for keeping energy levels up.
* Wear sturdy shoes: Proper footwear is crucial for safety on uneven terrain.
* Consider a shorter hike: Focus on the Box Canyon Falls area or a section with easier access.
* Engage kids with the scenery: Point out waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the town views.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
+1Tips for runners:
* Trail running shoes: Essential for grip and ankle support on uneven surfaces.
* Hydration pack: Crucial for carrying water on this challenging route.
* Pacing: Be mindful of the steep climbs and technical descents. It's not a flat, fast course.
* Consider the direction: Some runners prefer to ascend the steeper sections first or last, depending on their strategy.
* Check conditions: Especially in spring and fall, be aware of potential snow, ice, or mud.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1Beyond the falls, the trail provides breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and the town of Ouray. The fall foliage season transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of color, ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Look for waterfalls, unique rock formations, and the charming architecture of Ouray visible from various points on the trail. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most flattering light for capturing the dramatic scenery. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ouray Perimeter Trail
+1Many hikers choose to start their journey near the Ouray Visitor Center or the Box Canyon Falls Park. The trail is well-marked for the most part, but having an offline map on your phone is always a good idea, as cell service can be intermittent in the mountains.
Key features along the trail include the iconic high bridge spanning Box Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. You'll also encounter numerous smaller waterfalls, sections that wind through aspen groves (especially stunning in the fall), and several overlooks providing panoramic views of Ouray nestled in the valley.
+1 It's a hike that truly showcases the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the unique character of Ouray, often called the 'Switzerland of America'. Best Times to Experience the Perimeter Trail
Spring (April-May) can be a mixed bag. While the snow begins to melt, some higher sections of the trail might still be snow-covered or muddy. It's a good time for those seeking fewer crowds, but checking trail conditions beforehand is crucial. Winter (November-March) offers a completely different, serene experience for the adventurous. The trail can be covered in snow and ice, making it suitable only for experienced hikers with proper winter gear and avalanche awareness. Many sections may be impassable or dangerous.
For the best balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, consider visiting during the late spring or early fall shoulder seasons. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends throughout the year. Early mornings are also a great time to start your hike to avoid the midday sun and potential afternoon thunderstorms common in the summer.
Photography Opportunities on the Perimeter Trail
+1Beyond the falls, the trail provides stunning panoramic vistas of the San Juan Mountains. As you ascend, you'll gain perspective on the charming town of Ouray, often framed by towering peaks. Look for cascading waterfalls that dot the landscape, especially after spring snowmelt or summer rains. In the fall, the vibrant colors of the aspen groves create a magical atmosphere, perfect for landscape photography.
Don't forget to capture the unique geological formations and the textures of the rocky trail itself. For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow on the mountains. Midday sun can be harsh but offers clear, sharp views. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a telephoto lens for details or wildlife. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or capturing the motion of waterfalls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit