Three Top Tips for Fun Family Adventures in Ouray

By: Marie Hall

Photo By: Dawn Glanc

Ouray, Colorado is a beautiful and exciting place to have your next family adventure. With a treasure trove of outdoor activities to enjoy, endless hiking and off-road trails to explore, and plenty of historic sites to discover. But, to ensure your trip is both memorable and safe, it’s essential to prepare adequately for the unique terrain and climate of this stunning destination. 

Here, we dive into three key safety precautions to keep in mind when exploring Ouray.

Be aware of the High-Altitude

Photo By: @Psilly_runner

Ouray sits approximately 7,800 feet above sea level, and many of the adventures found here can take you even higher. At such elevations, the air is a little thinner, which can lead to altitude sickness – especially in children. To mitigate the risks, allow your family a day or two to adjust gradually to the altitude before doing anything overly strenuous.

Though this certainly shouldn’t put you off visiting this incredible landscape, the signs of altitude sickness are well worth being aware of. Headaches, nausea, or dizziness are signs you should take it down a notch and descend to a lower elevation for a while. Keep everyone well hydrated and apply sunscreen if you’re hiking out on foot. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so it’s widely recommended to be off any high-altitude trails by the early afternoon.

Preparing for an Off-Road Adventure

Photo By: @Jeep.Ouray

Off-roading is a thrilling and popular activity in Ouray, but you’ll need to pick the trails which match both your family's experience and your vehicle's capabilities. Some trails, such as Imogene Pass, require advanced driving skills, so it may be better to team up with another family or a tour company if you are nervous.

It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before setting off, and ride with at least one other vehicle for additional safety. You should also protect the environment by sticking to the designated trail, and have a kit of essential supplies in the car, just in case. A first-aid kit, extra water, a fire extinguisher, and some form of emergency communication device – such as a satellite phone – are all good items to keep somewhere handy.

Respect Wildlife and the Environment

Photo By: @Magee1968

Ouray’s natural beauty is home to a wide range of adversary wildlife and delicate ecosystems. Always observe animals from a safe distance, to avoid startling them or forcing them to flee, and don’t pick wildflowers or displace any other natural objects. You should also discuss the importance of the Leave No Trace principles with your family before you venture into the wilderness.

When exploring, it can be tempting to push through vegetation to discover a new view point, but this can disturb habitats and is ill-advised. Instead, stay on the trails and teach your children about the importance of protecting these natural wonders.

A Memorable Adventure

A trip to Ouray is a wonderful opportunity to breathe in the fresh mountain air, immerse yourself in stunning scenery, and enjoy a slower pace of life. With thoughtful preparation and respect for the environment, your family is sure to have a memorable and safe experience here.

Author bio: Marie Hall
As an outdoor enthusiast and avid hiker, Marie is always exploring new places where she can find hidden gems and breathtaking vistas. Having visited over 50 countries so far, she enjoys sharing her tips with others who share her love for travel.