Uncompahgre Gorge, Uncompahgre Plateau Travel Guide

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Explore the rugged beauty of the Uncompahgre Gorge near Ouray, Colorado, with scenic drives, hiking, and stunning canyon views.

The Uncompahgre Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Uncompahgre River and Red Mountain Creek, is located just south of Ouray, Colorado. This natural wonder offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a glimpse into the region's geological history.

A brief summary to Uncompahgre Gorge

Ouray, Colorado, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Uncompahgre Gorge.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550) for scenic views of the gorge, but be cautious of the steep drop-offs and changing weather conditions.
Visit Bear Creek Falls, a waterfall that dramatically cascades into the Uncompahgre Gorge, with a convenient pullout along Highway 550 for viewing.
Hike the Ouray Perimeter Trail for panoramic views of Ouray, the gorge, and surrounding waterfalls.
Consider experiencing the Ouray Via Ferrata, a unique climbing route with steel cables and rungs, for a thrilling adventure within the gorge.
In winter, visit the Ouray Ice Park, located at the northern end of the gorge, to watch or participate in ice climbing.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Uncompahgre Gorge on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Uncompahgre Gorge, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From the center of Ouray, head south on US-550 S for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto County Road 361 and continue for about 2 miles. Look for a parking area on the right side of the road, which is the main access point to Uncompahgre Gorge. Parking is free, but check for any signs regarding overnight parking restrictions.
Public Transport

Take the local shuttle service from Ouray to the Uncompahgre Plateau area. Check the shuttle schedule in advance as services may be limited. Upon arriving at the shuttle stop near US-550, walk approximately 1 mile down County Road 361 to reach the parking area for Uncompahgre Gorge. Be prepared for some elevation changes along this route.
Walking

From Ouray, follow the well-marked trails leading towards the Uncompahgre Gorge. The Ouray Perimeter Trail offers access to the gorge and provides scenic views. Be prepared for some elevation changes along this route.

Discover more about Uncompahgre Gorge

The Uncompahgre Gorge is a striking canyon carved by the Uncompahgre River and Red Mountain Creek, situated near Ouray, Colorado. The gorge offers a combination of natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.The gorge's formation is a result of the erosive power of the Uncompahgre River and Red Mountain Creek over millions of years. The steep cliffs that define the gorge offer views, and several waterfalls cascade into the canyon, including the notable Bear Creek Falls. The gorge's northern end flows into a box canyon, home to the Ouray Ice Park, a world-renowned ice climbing destination.Access to the gorge is primarily via U.S. Highway 550, also known as the Million Dollar Highway. This route itself is a scenic drive, cut through steep cliffs high above the river. The gorge provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying the surrounding Uncompahgre National Forest. The Ouray Via Ferrata, a climbing route with steel cables and rungs, allows visitors to traverse the gorge walls.The Uncompahgre Valley, in which the gorge is located, has a rich history dating back over 10,000 years. The Ute Indians used the valley as winter camps, and Spanish traders entered the area in the late 1600s. The town of Ouray, near the gorge, was founded during the area's mining boom in the late 19th century. Today, Ouray is a center for outdoor recreation and a gateway to the Uncompahgre Gorge.