Mount Ouray Out-and-Back

Dogs Off-leash

Features Views · Wildflowers

At 13,971 feet, Mount Ouray is just 29 feet shy of the venerable 14er distinction. If you're looking for an epic Colorado peak climb without the crowds, then you've come to the right place!

However, like many 13ers, the route to the top of Ouray isn't a designated or signed trail. While the climb is fairly well traveled, and you'll likely spot sections of visible trail and some cairns, prospective climbers should be experienced in navigation off-trail in high-alpine terrain. Expect all of the dangers that come along with a Colorado peak climb—exposure, afternoon thunderstorms, and the like.

There's a restroom at the trailhead, and dispersed camping nearby.

Drive Marshall Pass Road to the trailhead. There is a bathroom and a good amount of parking, plus good options for camping nearby.

The trail starts on a logging road, but you turn off really quickly onto a singletrack dirt path. Look for the cabin early into the trail, and shortly after, on the right-hand side, you'll see the trail. It's not marked in any way.

After hiking for a while with gradual elevation gain, the forest opens up a bit, but there are many downed logs to maneuver around. About a mile in, you should see a cairn on your left. I think this is the better trail option. There are cairns placed intermittently on the faint trail as you make the climb to the ridge.

Follow the ridge through fields and rocks, following a faint trail when you can see it. The trail usually stays true to the ridge or just left of it. The rocks get bigger as you start the approach to the summit. You can follow the path that stays on mostly Class 1+ terrain, or rock hop your way along for a Class 2 adventure.

The summit soars to 13,971 feet and provides a spectacular 360° view.

One of the best parts of this trail is getting to hear and see all of the cute little pikas scurrying about along the ridge. This ridge is known for being pretty windy, and there are many wind shelters at the summit, but plan your gear appropriately.

If you've got the time, energy, and a decent weather report, you can make the day a two-fer and unite the couple by taking the ridge to Chipeta Mountain, as Chipeta was Chief Ouray's wife.

Pikas, mountain goats, elk, moose, and more.

Ouray was a Native American chief of the Tabeguache band of the Ute tribe, that was located in western Colorado. Because of his leadership ability, Ouray was acknowledged by the United States government as a chief of the Ute and he traveled to Washington, D.C. to negotiate for the welfare of the Utes.