Green Travel Fun in Ouray, Colorado

Wondering where you should stay in Ouray? When you're ready to retire for the day, seek respite at the environmentally friendly Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs. Located in downtown Ouray, Box Canyon Lodge offers many amenities, from free high-speed wireless internet to televisions with satellite service and DVD players. At the end of a long day of exploration and adventure, relax in one of the hot tubs, supplied by natural hot springs on site.

When it comes to getting a bite to eat, you've got many great restaurants to choose from. Back Street Bistro is a great place to start your morning, offering a full breakfast line as well as bagels, subs and pastries along with delicious coffee and espresso drinks. When it comes to lunch and dinner, you have many choices. Some restaurants have different hours during the winter season. And you have to take in Mouse's Chocolates for fabulous chocolates and cookies, and delicious coffee.

Places to explore abound in and around Ouray. Take a short hike up to Cascade Falls for a spectacular view of the city or explore the Box Canyon Falls, both located a convenient few blocks from the Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs. You can take a beautiful scenic drive on the Million Dollar Highway to Silverton, or a trip up to Ironton park for terrific hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

In the winter, Ouray is home to a world famous ice park located within the city limits. You can watch the climbers from several vantage points, including the top of the Uncompahgre Gorge. Or, if you want to try out this adventurous sport yourself, include ice climbing lessons as part of your vacation.

Interested in hiking? Try the Perimeter Trail which meanders through the basin above the Amphitheater. Gaining only 900 feet of elevation along its trail, this hike is great for those getting acclimated to Ouray's high altitude. For more information on hiking in the area, the Ouray Trails Group, which maintains over 76 gorgeous hiking trails, publishes a detailed map and guide to hiking trails that you can purchase locally. These trails range from easy for the inexperienced hiker, to extremely technical, so you can find something fun for any hiker.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing vacation or a chance to get away from home and try your hand at something new, Ouray is the place to be. From hiking to skiing, you can find fun activities any time of the year. Make the Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs your home as you explore this magnificent remote town.