7 Most Relaxing Activities in Colorado’s “Switzerland of America” for 2025

The Switzerland of America

Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, Ouray is one of Colorado’s most beautiful towns. From steaming hot springs to gentle trails, here’s your guide to the most relaxing things to do in 2025.

Soak in Mineral-Rich Waters at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool

Address: 1220 Main Street, Ouray, CO
Fees: Varies by age and time; typically $18-$26 for adults

Highlights:

• Sulfur-free natural hot springs
• Adult-only overlook pool (102° – 106°)
• Aqua yoga or sound bathing class 
• Rock wall climbing 
• Rolling fun key log

Picture soaking in warm, mineral-rich water while snow-capped peaks tower around you. The facility covers 4 acres and features 5 distinct pools.

The main source of the pool water comes from the Box Canyon where 100 GPM of 150-degree mineral water is gravity-fed over a mile. The water contains 17 minerals, including sulfate, calcium, and potassium.

Beyond simple soaking, you’ll find the Sage Spa inside the facility offering facials and mountain views, and two water slides for when you want to mix fun with relaxation. While there’s no hotel on-site, the connected Hot Springs Inn offers pool access with your stay.

Connect with Nature at the Perimeter Trail

Address: 1230 Main Street, Ouray, CO
Fees: Free

Highlights:

• 5.6-mile loop (4 to 5 hours to complete)
• Historic bridges and waterfalls
• Cañon Creek gorge
• Old miners’ Potato Patch

Starting at the Visitor Center, this 5.6-mile loop lets you unwind in nature without the strain of steep hiking. You’ll pass a few waterfalls along the trail: Lower Cascade Falls, Upper Cascade Falls, Box Canyon Falls, and Baby Bathtubs.

The trail crosses 6 historic bridges where you can rest and take in views of Mount Hayden and Whitehouse Mountain. The wide path features bench areas, best for catching afternoon sun or morning shade. You’ll even cross a tunnel.

‘Visit Ouray’, a new interactive trail map app with augmented reality features will help enhance your experience.

Baby Bathtubs Trail and An Ice Park

Address: 1.5 miles north of Ouray, CO, on Highway 550
Fees: Free

Highlights:

• Easy hike for any age group
• Rock and boulders along the stream bed
• 50 ice and mixed climbing routes at Ouray Ice Park
• Unique geology with different types of rocks

Located north of town on Highway 550, these natural rock pools offer a unique spot to relax. The trail itself is a slightly primitive forest, beginning off of the Amphitheater Campground Road.

It features smooth depressions, a small gorge, and a stream, sharing routes with a section of the Ouray Perimeter Trail. You’ll pass a registration box as it starts from the roadway. In some places, the side trails lead to the edge of the gorge where the views are great.

Nearby, you’ll find the Ouray Ice Park (the world’s largest ice climbing venue in winter) and Crystal Lake Recreation Area. Use walking poles. There are several places where loose gravel makes it a bit slick and the walkway can get relatively steep.

Enjoy the Views at the Box Canyon Falls Park

Address: 500 3rd Avenue, Ouray, CO
Fees: $5 to $7 (free for children below 3)

Highlights:

• Visitor center with geology exhibits
• Connects to Perimeter & High Bridge trails
• 285-foot waterfall inside a quartzite canyon

You’ll need to travel through town on Main Street heading south to reach this place. Take a 500-foot walk before you reach this natural wonder of thundering waterfalls with enough force to create a constant cooling breeze.

Box Canyon Falls is the culmination of Canyon Creek before it joins the Uncompahgre River near Ouray. It connects to both the Perimeter Trail and High Bridge Trail. At this geological formation, a 285-foot waterfall plummets into a narrow quartzite canyon.

The narrow rock walls tower over the falls by nearly 100 feet. Opens 9 AM to 5 PM in summer. Though it does remain open year-round, Box Canyon Road is shut during the winter season.

Explore the Ouray County Museum

Address: 420 6th Avenue, Ouray, CO (Former St. Joseph’s Miners’ Hospital)
Fees: $10 for adults

Highlights:

• History Programs at the Wright Opera House
• Research center with 2,500+ historical photographs
• Cedar Hill Cemetery tour ($20) per person

Housed in the former St. Joseph’s Miners’ Hospital, this building dates back to 1887, offering 38 exhibits in 27 rooms across three floors.

Beyond typical displays that explore thousands of artifacts reflecting the mining, ranching, and railroading history of Ouray County, there are smaller displays located in hall cases, alcoves, and the original hospital dumb waiters.

Food and drink are not permitted in the museum, but you can enjoy snacks at one of the many mom-and-pop businesses nearby. What’s new? Their interactive mining exhibit allows visitors to experience a simulated mine shaft.

Have a Picnic at the Rotary Park

Address: 784 Main Street, Ouray, CO
Fees: Free (Pavilion rental: $75/day)

Highlights:

• Half-day rock climbing excursions
• Restrooms and picnic tables 
• Wake surfing in the stream
• Dog walking spaces

Located at 784 Main Street, this park is right next to Highway 550. Features include spacious picnic areas (each with shelters and tables), a newly installed quarter-mile walking path, and a covered pavilion.

The Animas River Trail (weaves through the heart of downtown Durango) is a key highlight for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also connected to the Ouray Hot Springs Pool by paved paths. Watch people climb boulders or just enjoy a picnic in the playground.

Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee

Address: 520 Main Street, Ouray, CO
Fees: Based on purchases

Highlights:

• 30 handmade chocolate varieties made daily
• Locally roasted coffee from Telluride Coffee Roasters
• Famous “Scrap Cookies” made from chocolate leftovers

Nestled in a historic building at 520 Main Street, this local favorite combines relaxation with treats. The shop features cozy window-seat nooks that overlook Main Street, each with cushioned benches and small tables.

The menu includes 30 handmade chocolate varieties made on-site daily, locally roasted coffee from Telluride Coffee Roasters, and their famous “Scrap Cookies” made with chocolate-making leftovers.

New comfort additions include heated floors, sound-dampening panels, and a small reading library. It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring this charming mountain town.