You don’t need a passport to see Switzerland, at least not for the Switzerland of America. That title belongs to Ouray, a mountain town tucked into the rugged San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado. Complete with historic storefronts, waterfalls, scenic drives and steaming hot springs, this town makes for a charming weekend getaway.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Colorado or planning a long weekend in the mountains, here’s how to experience the Alps here in the Southwest.
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Ouray Hot Springs
Soak in the Hot Springs
Montrose Regional Airport is the closest to this town, about an hour’s drive. As you head south, you’ll quickly see why you made the drive as the peaks begin closing in around the highway. Soon, historic brick storefronts begin appearing beneath towering cliffs, with waterfalls trickling down the mountainsides behind them. Crisp alpine air carries the scent of pine through downtown while colorful flower baskets and cozy cafés give the streets an unmistakably European feel.
And perhaps there’s no better introduction to town than a soak in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center. Located right near downtown, the hot springs complex features multiple sulfur-free pools of varying temperatures, making it easy to alternate between relaxing soaks and cooler dips. Relax and revitalize or get active with waterslides, rock climbing or a round of volleyball during the summer months.
Shop Local & Try a Truffle at Mouse’s Chocolates
Small mountain towns are often made memorable by their local shops, and Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee is one stop visitors shouldn’t skip.
This cozy local chocolate shop has become a beloved Ouray staple thanks to its handmade truffles, fudge and caramel apples. Step inside and the smell alone is enough to convince you to order more than one treat. The truffles are especially popular, with rich flavors that somehow feel even more indulgent after a long day outdoors.
Along the historic streets, you will find locally owned boutiques, outdoor outfitters, art galleries and gift shops tucked beneath colorful Victorian-era buildings. Western artwork, handmade jewelry, mountain-inspired home décor and photography capturing the San Juan Mountains all add to the town’s cozy alpine character.
Travis Perkins Photography - Visit Ouray
Hiking
Hike the Perimeter Trail
For a closer look at Ouray’s natural beauty, lace up your hiking boots and tackle part of the Ouray Perimeter Trail. Widely considered one of the most scenic hikes in the state, this trail loops around the town while showcasing waterfalls, cliffs, wildflowers and dramatic canyon views.
One of the trail’s more memorable moments begins with a walk through a short cave tunnel carved into the rock before crossing a bridge near the roaring Cascade Falls. Depending on the season, hikers may also spot bright wildflowers and turquoise pools fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains.
The full trail spans roughly 6 miles, but even shorter sections offer incredible scenery. And unlike many Colorado hikes that require long drives into the wilderness, this one starts practically right from town.
Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Once you’ve seen the town, carve out time to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic scenic drives, the Million Dollar Highway.
Heading south from Ouray toward Silverton, the highway twists dramatically through the San Juan Mountains with steep drop-offs, sharp curves and panoramic alpine views around nearly every bend.
Along the drive, stop at the famous overlook featuring the “Switzerland of America” sign, where panoramic views reveal Ouray tucked into a narrow valley beneath towering peaks. It’s here that the town’s nickname makes complete sense. The combination of rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls and the cozy valley setting feels remarkably alpine.
If possible, make the drive near sunrise or golden hour, when the mountains glow deep shades of orange and pink and the entire valley seems to light up.
Travis Perkins Photography - Visit Ouray
Ouray Town
End the Day on the Rooftop at The Imogene
When evening rolls around, head to The Imogene Hotel to wind down with rooftop drinks and some of the best views in town. Equal parts boutique hotel and stylish gathering spot, The Imogene blends modern mountain luxury with the laid-back charm that defines Ouray.
The rooftop bar is the perfect place to toast the end of the day while the mountains fade into soft evening light. Order a cocktail, settle into the atmosphere and take in the quiet pace of a town that somehow still feels undiscovered compared to many of Colorado’s bigger ski destinations.
When You Go
Ouray: visitouray.com
Ouray Hot Springs and Pool: visitouray.com/ourayhotspringspool
Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee: mouseschocolates.com
Ouray Perimeter Trail: ouraytrails.org/city-ouray-trails/perimeter-trail
Million Dollar Highway: visitouray.com/million-dollar-highway
The Imogen Hotel & Rooftop Bar: theimogene.com