Ouray Perimeter Trail, I think I’d call this more of an adventure than a hike with so many natural sites along the trail. Bridges, aspen fields, unusual rocks, cliff drops, waterfalls, mining tunnels, and views! It’s approx. 5-6 miles of not knowing what to expect on the next corner. Great fun and a great hike.
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CASCADE FALLS
We started our hike on the Perimeter Trail at Cascade Falls. (you can also start across the street from the Visitor Center). Starting at the Falls was just the beginning of so many adventures to come.
Beautiful fall foliage and early morning dew left me mesmerized as we hiked through the forest high above the town of Ouray.
BABY BATHTUBS
Reaching Baby Bathtubs Trail, we found the Perimeter Trail goes right through this area, which wanders in and out of the most unusual rock formations formed from continuous water flowing down. Looked like a seriously perfect spot in the hot summer months!
We lost our way through the Baby Bathtubs but did find another Perimeter Signpost on a bridge leading us up and out of this area.
Wandering next across a high meadow with the most spectacular views of the higher peaks surrounding us.
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BEST VIEWS OF THE TRAIL HERE!
Just so unexpected at every turn, now hiking across a rocky field downward to a road, crossing it to find ourselves on a trail lined with Aspen trees.
REALLY, A YELLOW RIVER? Uncompahgre River
Coming upon a bridge that overlooked a mustard-colored river. This was more of a shock than a surprise! It’s a beautiful canyon setting but creepy too. Read here for an article on why the river is yellow. Telluride News
After the shock of the yellow river we are soon passing a historic old mine site then into the area of Box Canyon, (a popular paid venue and so worth it!), we did that on a different visit.
LEAVING BOX CANYON AREA
More surprises to come hiking across a bridge overlooking Box Canyon, through a tunnel of rock and dirt, and down a steep set of stairs.
What looked like a scary trail ahead on the cliffs turned out to be easy-going and spectacular.
Rounding a bend with sweeping views of the town of Ouray below us we found ourselves hiking up a steep road until reaching the trail again. Wandering down through switchbacks that lead back to town and the end of our adventure.
HIKED THROUGH TOWN BACK TO CASCADE FALLS
Just a super FUN hike! Full of mystery and curiosity. Highly recommend!
Good hiking shoes, water, and all the backpack essentials on this one even with it close to town. Its primitive in spots and some parts of the trail took a bit of skill. It encircles the town of Ouray on the mountainsides in rugged terrain.
TIDBITS
Rated: moderate/strenuous
5.9-mile loop
Elevations range from 7661 ft – 8413 ft
LOCATED
Town of Ouray, CO – VIsitor Center
NEARBY HIKES
https://crazyaboutcolorado.com/blue-lakes-colorado-best-hikes/
HIKES TO DO!
HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!
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Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you).
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