This past summer, our family embarked on a six-night road trip through Southern Colorado, starting with 2 days in Ouray with kids. Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray is affectionately known as the “Switzerland of America” for its stunning alpine scenery. Just 5.5 hours from Denver, it was the perfect kickoff to our family adventure.
Ouray surprised and delighted us with its small-town charm, walkable downtown, natural hot springs, and incredible outdoor activities. From exploring waterfalls to venturing on an exhilarating Jeep tour, this stop had something for everyone. Here’s how we spent our two unforgettable days in Ouray with our kids (ages 8, 6, and 4).
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Where We Stayed: Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs
We stayed two nights at the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs, and it couldn’t have been a better fit for our family of five. The Box Canyon Double Queen Suite was spacious, cozy, and just right for us. The highlight? Its prime location, within walking distance of many attractions, including the famous Box Canon Falls.
The hotel also features several wooden hot spring tubs with varying temperatures. After long days of adventuring, soaking in these natural hot springs was the perfect way to unwind. Even the kids enjoyed the experience, making it both fun and relaxing for the whole family.
After a full day of adventure, we returned to the Box Canyon Lodge to relax in the hotel’s hot spring tubs. The naturally heated water and serene mountain views provided a soothing end to an action-packed day. The kids enjoyed hopping between the different temperature tubs, making it a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs Website
Day 1: Evening at Box Canon Falls
After checking in, we headed to Box Canon Falls, just a short walk from the hotel. This breathtaking park is one of Ouray’s crown jewels, featuring a roaring 285-foot waterfall that cascades through a narrow quartzite canyon.
History of Box Canon Falls
Box Canon Falls has been a cherished landmark since the late 1800s. It became a city park in 1920 and has since been preserved as a natural wonder. The falls are fed by melting snow from the San Juan Mountains, making them particularly powerful during the summer months.
Exploring Box Canon Falls with Kids
The trail to the falls was a manageable adventure for our family, even for our 4-year-old. The path to the base is an easy walk, while the hike to the bridge above is slightly more challenging with some rocky terrain. It’s not overly steep, and there are no dangerous drop-offs, but we kept our kids close and didn’t let them run ahead.
The view from the bridge was worth the effort, offering an awe-inspiring panorama of the roaring waterfall below framed by the towering canyon walls. This spot provided the perfect backdrop for family photos and a unique perspective that our kids found absolutely fascinating. We spent about two hours exploring the park, marveling at the geological formations, and snapping plenty of family photos.
That evening, we walked to Gold Belt Bar & Grill on Main Street for some pizza. This casual, kid-friendly spot offered delicious food and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect end to our first day in Ouray.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Baby Bathtubs, and a Thrilling Jeep Tour
Morning at Cascade Falls
Our second day began with a short drive to Cascade Falls, a stunning waterfall located on the edge of town. While it’s possible to walk there, driving allowed us to save energy for the rest of the day’s adventures.
The hike to the base of Cascade Falls was quick and easy, even for our youngest. The kids especially loved feeling the cool mist from the waterfall and the gentle roar added a sense of adventure to the short walk. The falls are the first in a series of seven cascading waterfalls that descend from the cliffs above. The thunderous sound and cool mist were invigorating, and the kids loved standing near the base to feel the spray.
Exploring the Baby Bathtubs Trail
Next, we headed to the Baby Bathtubs Trail, another family-friendly hike. This slightly longer trail was still manageable for our kids and led to a series of shallow pools carved into the rocks by flowing water.
The “bathtubs” were a hit with the kids, who loved splashing around and hopping from rock to rock. It was a refreshing and interactive experience, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Afternoon Jeep Tour to Yankee Boy Basin
The highlight of our time in Ouray was an unforgettable Jeep tour with Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures. Our friend Geoff, an expert guide, took us on a thrilling adventure to Yankee Boy Basin, a high-alpine valley surrounded by towering peaks and colorful wildflowers.
Yankee Boy Basin is known for its dramatic scenery and rich mining history. Once a bustling hub during the late 19th-century mining boom, this high-alpine valley played a crucial role in the region’s economic development. Today, remnants of old mining structures and equipment can still be seen, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past while surrounded by breathtaking peaks and wildflowers. The bumpy ride along the shelf roads offered heart-stopping views, and while Jamie (my wife) was nervous at times, she braved the heights like a champ.
One of the kids’ favorite moments was when Geoff handed them tools to crack open rocks and search for minerals. They were thrilled to find some shiny treasures to take home as souvenirs. This hands-on experience added a unique and educational element to the tour.
Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures Website
The Million Dollar Highway
On our way out of Ouray, we traveled along the Million Dollar Highway, a scenic stretch of road between Ouray and Silverton.
History of the Million Dollar Highway
Constructed in the late 1800s, this highway was originally a toll road built to serve the mining industry. Its name is rumored to come from the cost of its construction or the amount of gold ore that remains in the roadbed.
The drive offers jaw-dropping views of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and towering peaks. Jamie was nervous about the sheer drop-offs but braved the drive like a pro. We stopped for the afternoon at Silverton before taking photos at Molas Pass and headed to Durango and Mesa Verde for our next adventures.
Tips for Visiting Ouray with Kids
- Stay Close to Town: The Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs is a great option for families, offering easy access to major attractions.
- Stroll Downtown for Souvenirs and Great Eats: Ouray’s Main Street offers charming shops with unique souvenirs and plenty of family-friendly dining options. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there’s something to satisfy everyone.
- Stay Hydrated: The high altitude and summer heat can be draining. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the kids.
- Don’t Miss the Jeep Tours: If you want to experience the true essence of Ouray, a Jeep tour is a must. Ask for Geoff at Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures for a fantastic experience.
Why Ouray with kids is Perfect
Ouray’s stunning natural beauty, family-friendly activities, and walkable downtown make it an ideal destination for young families. From the roar of Box Canon Falls to the adventure of a Jeep tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re planning a trip to Southern Colorado, make sure to spend 2 days in Ouray with kids. It’s a destination that will leave your family with memories to treasure for a lifetime.
