Looking for the best things to do in Ouray, Colorado, this summer? This guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip!
Ouray is a highly underrated town in Southwestern Colorado. Most visitors skip past in favor of the more famous Telluride.
But Ouray is a gem in its own right. There is a reason it was named “Little Switzerland of America!”
Summer in Ouray means mild temperatures, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and adventure activities like via ferrata.
Wind down in the evening in one of the town’s three hot springs.
Explore the city’s quaint downtown, and take a drive to remember on the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton.
Let’s start planning your Ouray summer trip today!
Best Summer Festivals & Events in Ouray (Summer 2026)
Ouray isn’t just about outdoor adventure.
Summer brings fun local events worth building into your Ouray itinerary:
- Ouray International Film Festival (June 18–21) – Four days of independent films, panels, and social gatherings in the scenic San Juan Mountains.
- Mountain Air Music Series (Thursdays in June) – Free outdoor concerts at Fellin Park, perfect for sunset picnics with live local music.
- Ouray Canyon Festival (August 5–9) – Adventure-focused canyoning events, evening socials, and gear demos for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Summer Fiesta at the Beaumont Hotel (July 26) – Local music, gourmet street food, and festive summer vibes in the historic hotel courtyard.
Summer Adventure Activities in Ouray
1. Hike Perimeter Trail
Perimeter Trail is a 6.5-mile loop considered one of the best ways to see Ouray!
Summer is ideal for hiking this trail because wildflowers are in full bloom and wildlife is active.
Portions of the trail are shaded, but much of the trail is exposed, so early morning or late afternoon is best.
The full loop takes about 3-4 hours, with moderate elevation changes.
I didn’t have time to hike the entire trail on my trip, so I stopped at some of the best stops like Cascade Waterfall Park and Box Canyon Park.
Tip: There is free Perimeter Trail parking across from the Ouray Visitor Center.
2. Box Canyon Falls Park
Box Canyon Falls Park is a quick and dramatic stop in town, perfect for families or anyone looking for a short hike.
The summer flow from the waterfall is strong but safe, and a viewing platform lets you feel the power of the falls up close.
You have two choices at Box Canyon Falls- you can hike either the upper or lower falls. Both are short hikes.
Plan to spend about 30 minutes at the park!
3. Via Ferrata
Via Ferrata is one of the most famous things to do in Ouray!
And it’s one of the most unique ways to experience the San Juan Mountains in summer.
This protected climbing route uses steel cables, ladders, and narrow ledges to guide you along the cliffs above the Uncompahgre Gorge.
You’ll be harnessed the entire time, making it accessible for beginners with a guide while still exciting for experienced climbers.
Summer conditions (typically June -September) offer the safest access, with dry rock and clear views of waterfalls rushing below from snowmelt.
Book a guided tour in advance, wear sturdy shoes, and plan for a half-day adventure!
4. Rock Climbing
Classic rock climbing is a great alternative to the Ouray Via Ferrata.
Taking a rock climbing tour through the San Juan Mountains provides a thrilling way to experience the gorgeous Colorado landscape from up above!
5. Ridgway State Park
Ridgway State Park is a lovely state park located about 15 minutes by car outside of Ouray.
It’s absolutely worth the 15-minute drive to soak in these mountain views. Most of the trails are flat, making it an accessible park for all travelers.
The park offers swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking on Ridgway Reservoir- perfect for cooling off on summer afternoons!
There are also scenic hiking and biking trails with views of the San Juan Mountains.
Arrive early on weekends, as parking and beach areas fill up quickly in peak summer.
Ridgway State Park also offers some of the most well-kept campgrounds I have ever seen. The bathroom is pristinely clean. Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis and costs $30/night.
6. Jeep Rentals
Jeep Rentals & Off-Roading in Ouray let you explore rugged backcountry roads that you can’t access in a standard vehicle.
Summer is peak season for routes like Imogene Pass or Engineer Pass.
The Imogene Pass connects Ouray to Telluride, and is one of the best things to do over the summer in both mountain towns!
Local rental companies provide guided tours or self-drive options, but experience with off-road driving is recommended. Go early to avoid crowds on popular passes.
7. Ouray Ice Park (Summer Version!)
Ice Park Gorge Hikes (Summer Version) provide a completely different vibe than the winter ice climbs Ouray is famous for.
Trails along the Uncompahgre Gorge and surrounding canyons offer moderate hikes with waterfalls and streams.
Summer conditions make it safer and more accessible, and it’s a quieter way to enjoy the dramatic cliffs that draw climbers in winter.
Plan a couple of hours for a full loop or shorter walks to waterfalls.
Summer Relaxation in Ouray
1. Million Dollar Highway
Sit back and relax- no hiking required on the Million Dollar Highway!
Driving the Million Dollar Highway is one of the most scenic experiences in the state.
It is one of the most scenic drives I have been on in my entire life!
The stretch between Ouray and Silverton is known for its cliffs, tight turns, and dramatic mountain views.
In summer, the road is fully accessible and lined with wildflowers and waterfalls fed by snowmelt.
Take your time, use pull-offs for photos, and drive during daylight hours for the best visibility and safety.
2. Hot Springs
Ouray is home to three different hot springs! Hot springs are natural water springs heated by the earth.
Just past the Ouray Visitor Center and approaching downtown, you will find the Ouray Hot Springs.
Your other hot spring options in Ouray are Weisbaden Hot Spring Spa, Vapor Cave, and Orvis Hotsprings.
I recommend Ouray Hotspings because it’s centrally located right in town. For families, there is a kids’ playground directly outside the springs.
Unlike natural soaking pools, this large facility offers multiple sections with varying temperatures, plus lap lanes and shallow areas.
I recommend visiting in the evening when temperatures are slightly cooler. It’s a great way to relax after a long day in the mountains!
There’s nothing like a relaxing soak at the end of a long day, surrounded by gorgeous alpine mountain views.
Best Things to Do in Ouray: Evening
1. Wright Opera House
The Wright Opera House is a historic gem in downtown Ouray that comes alive in the summer with live performances, concerts, and community events.
Originally built in 1888, the venue blends Old West charm with an intimate theater experience.
Tip: Check the schedule ahead of your trip, as shows are limited and can sell out quickly!
2. Ouray Brewery
Ouray Brewery is a must-stop in the summer for its rooftop patio with panoramic mountain views.
It’s one of the best spots in town to relax after a day of hiking or jeeping, with craft beers brewed on-site and a solid casual menu.
Go in the late afternoon or around sunset for the best atmosphere, when the surrounding peaks glow, and the weather is still warm.
Seating on the rooftop is first-come, first-served, so plan accordingly during peak summer weekends!
3. Stroll Downtown Ouray
Downtown Ouray is the heart of the town and one of the most scenic main streets in Colorado, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.
In the summer, it’s perfect for strolling between local shops, grabbing ice cream, and browsing outdoor gear stores before your next adventure.
Restaurants spill onto patios, making it easy to enjoy the warm weather with mountain views.
Plan to spend at least an hour here, especially in the evening when the light hits the surrounding cliffs.
Conclusion
Ouray in the summer blends adventure with small-town charm, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend or a stop on a larger Colorado road trip!
From adrenaline-filled activities like the Via Ferrata to laid-back afternoons at the hot springs or brewery, there’s something for everyone.
I can’t wait to go back!
