The San Juan Mountains of western Colorado are one of the most magical mountain ranges I've visited. There is a little town sitting in the high mountains there that serves as a hub for adventure. Ouray, a town of a thousand people, is known as the Switzerland of America. No words can ever fully describe the majesty of mountains that surround this place. I’ve been to Ouray a few times and wanted to share the area with you! Maybe it will inspire you to travel there someday, or reminisce if you’ve already been.
I’ve stayed at a few lodging places there. The Riverside Inn was clean and cozy. They offer hotel style rooms, as well as cabins similar to the KOA cabins I’ve posted about. The KOA (Kampgrounds of America) was also a great stay. They even have a small stream running through the property which was super relaxing. Since Ouray relies heavily on tourism, there is no shortage of lodging facilities.
What is there to do in Ouray? Well, the area is full of activities, that’s for sure. There are jeep tours and rentals, and even snowmobile tours. I did the snowmobile tour once in April, and it was really great to get into nature as the seasons began to change.
The Uncompahgre River also is a wonderful place to sit by the river, hear the sounds of nature idling by, and relax in the warm Colorado sun. I found a pull off area and sat by the water for a few hours, and it was just what I needed. 
Hiking is also popular in the area. There are a wide range of trails for all abilities. I would recommend the Gray Copper trail. The photos below were taken on this trail, and I could have sat at the top of the trail forever. It was a great workout with no one else on the trail. It might be helpful to have some hiking poles as there was at least one area I had to use them due to steepness and loose rock. It’s considered a moderate or strenuous hike, depending on what web site you look at. I would plan on it being your only adventure for the day so you can have time to enjoy the views. There are old mining buildings which are neat to look at!
Ouray is certainly an adventure worth taking. Hiking, jeeping, river watching, stellar views. They have a hot springs, also, that is worth checking out. There is really nothing like those San Juan Mountains. You can take the Million Dollar highway to Silverton, see Durango, Grand Junction, and so much more depending on how much time you have to explore.
Safe travels, friends! And keep dreaming!