Ouray Perimeter Trail

Trail Register

To begin, walk across the road to a large pink boulder, sign and tree. The trail starts on a wood edged path north of a planted berm. It climbs wood stairs in the hillside to Cascade Cliff.

Cascade Falls

The cliff path leads to Cascade Falls and Cascade Creek bridge. Cross the bridge, and continue uphill on Lower Cascade Trail. At the first clearing, ahead of you to the south are Ouray's signature views of Mt. Abram, 12,801', and Hayden Mountain, 11,475'. The southwest skyline shows U.S. Mountain, 13,036'. To the west are Whitehouse Mountain, 13,452', and Twin Peaks, 10,798'.

Bathtubs

Ascending this section, you will reach a shallow, often dry, crossing of Little Portland Creek with lots of little rock bathtubs (great for kids to play in).

Via Ferrara and Ice Park

Ouray's famous Ice Park is sought after by ice climbers from all over the United States. During the summer months, there is a via ferrata at the park that you will be able to see from the trail.

Tunnel

After crossing the suspended bridge over Cañon Creek's spectacular gorge, you'll pass through Ouray's historic water tunnel (The ceiling is low; watch your head.) Past the tunnel, steep stairs lead down the cliff along the gorge.

Overlook

Bridge overlooking town

From here, check out views to the north and east that include Ouray; Gold Hill and the Blowout, 10,587'; Cascade Mountain, 11,000'; the Amphitheater and Cow Mountain, 13,111'.) Walk north on Oak Street past 7th Avenue to the City's Maintenance Shop near Fellin Park. Cross the footbridge and return to the Visitors' Center where you began.

Ouray Hot Springs Pool

The trail returns to your starting point, passing the famous hot springs pool on the way.

Portland Mine Road

This historic mining road passes the old miner's Potato Patch. (They really grew potatoes here.) Hike across the Patch, following posts and cairns to a spartan, rocky upland of cactus and flowers in spring and summer. This is the trail's highest elevation (~ 8,500'). Enjoy the views! (Behind and to the east is the 3,000' gray Amphitheater wall; to the west is Hayden Mountain. Downhill is US 550 and the Uncompahgre Gorge.) Descend to the highway and cross carefully, listening and looking for traffic.