Climbing
Ouray: Switzerland of America
Ouray, Colorado · 3 days · Challenging
About This Trip
Nestled in a box canyon at 7,800 feet, Ouray is the San Juan Mountains at their most dramatic. Three days of via ferrata traversals, slot canyons, summit climbs, and options for every skill level.
Highlights
- Ouray Via Ferrata — cliff traversal on iron rungs and cables
- Mount Sneffels summit (14,158 ft) via steep scree ridge
- Box Canyon Falls — waterfall cutting through a 20-foot-wide slot
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison — one of America's most dramatic gorges
- UTV rides and canyoning on arrival day
Day-by-Day Plan
Day 1
Arrival & Acclimation — UTV, Canyoning, or Rafting
- UTV ride through mountain passes — scenic, low-effort acclimation
- Canyoning descent in the San Juans — ropes and waterfalls
- Whitewater rafting on nearby alpine rivers
Day 2
Summit & Technical Day — Sneffels or Via Ferrata
- Mount Sneffels (14,158 ft) — steep scree, exposed ridge, incredible 360° views
- Ouray Via Ferrata — iron rungs traverse the cliff face above town
- Box Canyon Falls Park — waterfall through a narrow 600-ft canyon
Day 3
Black Canyon of the Gunnison or Final Float
- Black Canyon overlooks and steep inner canyon hikes
- Second day of rafting on alpine rivers near Ouray