The third stop on our #coloradoroadtrip is Ouray, Colorado. On your way there, you’ll go through Montrose transitioning from highway 50 to 550. As this is a longer leg of the trip you may want to start in the morning and stop in Montrose for lunch. Sitting at an elevation of 5,807 feet there’s outstanding local options for your eatery needs. Long time locals Kim and Bill Volk own the Campfire Robber restaurant operating since 1994. This home made menu has favorites for everyone in your vehicle.
After your midday stop in Montrose, you’ll continue down highway 550 to Ouray, Colorado, 7,792 feet. Known as the land of steam and ice, Ouray has every adventure activity available for you. During the summer activities include 4x4 trails, Biking, Rock Climbing, Canyoning, Fishing, Ghost Town Hunting, Hiking, Hot Springs, Rafting, SUP-ing, Boating, Camping, Horseback riding, or Ballooning. Okay that’s a lot! (...and that’s just summer activities!)
4x4 Trails:
Is your car ready? Or do you need to rent? While it may be tempting to believe an All Wheel Drive Vehicle like a Subaru or SUV is 4x4 capable, the best advice is to stick with a Jeep or truck based SUV with a true 4 Wheel Drive system and sufficient clearance. Many of the trails and passes marked 4 Wheel Drive or 4x4 Only earned that designation.
Biking:
The Ridgeway Area Trail System offers trails at all levels including a trail through Ridgeway State Park and along the Uncompahgre. This is a great way to recover from all the time in the car.
Rock Climbing and Canyoning:
Up to 10 famous climbing areas will offer this high altitude adventure to offer a route best for you. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a 2,000 foot playground for advanced climbing. To obtain permits visit the National Park Service.
Fishing:
If you got hooked on fishing during the Salida leg, you’ll love what the Blue Ribbon Waters have to offer.
Ghost Town-ing:
Continue your historic journey around the area by visiting more famous ghost towns. The picturesque areas will be sure to ground you in Colorado’s roots. There are even ghost towns in the area only accessible by 4x4 trails. What a great picnic opportunity!
Hiking:
Box Canyon Falls is a hike that you want to miss in this area. Although the most well known, it’s not the only beautiful hiking opportunity nearby. Don’t forget to follow good hiking etiquette to keep these pristine trails pristine, safe and available for years to come.
Hot Springs:
While on this #coloradoroadtrip you’re experiencing some stops on the famous “hot springs loop”. From fancy pools, to natural springs, to vapor caves, you can have your hot springs experience that’s right for you.
On the Water:
Rafting, SUP-ing and Boating are all available adventures in this area to cool down this summer. Ridgeway reservoir offers motor boating activities, SUP-ing sensations, and there are 4 rivers in the area offering all types of class float trips for your family.
San Juan Mountains: Camping, Horseback, Ballooning
Located near the San Juan Mountains, of course you can get your camping in the area. There’s a hut system if your camping style is driven for a bit more security than your tent. Backcountry trails also offer a great place for your horseback adventure. One special thing that you might want to do here over the San Juans is Ballooning. You can really elevate your eyes on this spectacular summer activity that is sure to take your breath away.
For your inner foodie, be sure to check out the Colorado Boy Brewing Company for hand crafted beer and pizza to enjoy all the most tasty parts of the Ouray culture. This special playground in southern colorado is sure to bring out your childlike sense of adventure on your #roadtripaccrossamerica #coloradostyle
This is summer in Colorado, where you'll find beauty and wonder and no matter the destination. At Haglin Automotive, we are proud of our long heritage of serving the automotive public. Thank you for your trust over the years, and know we're here when you need us.