6-Day Ouray & Silverton Off-Road Adventure Guide

Getting to Ouray takes a little time, but the journey is part of the adventure. If you’re flying, the most convenient airports are Durango, Montrose, or Telluride, each within a 2-hour drive. From Denver, plan on a scenic 6–7 hour drive through the Rockies.

Once you’ve arrived, settle into your Ouray stay and stretch your legs walking Main Street, browsing the shops and grabbing some dinner at the local Ouray Brewery.

Tip: Grab a spot on the rooftop for great views of the town and enjoy some elote dip.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yankee Girl Café before easing into a couple of beginner-friendly trails to get your wheels under you.

Begin with the Red Mountain Mining Area trail, where you can immerse yourself in the region’s rich mining history and pause to explore the relics at the Yankee Girl Mine.

If time allows, continue down the highway to tackle the Bandora Mine trail and the breathtaking Clear Lake.

Return to Ouray in the evening for a casual, satisfying dinner at Maggie’s Kitchen, and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure.

Fuel your morning with a cup of coffee at Ouray Ice House Coffee for the day ahead. Summer in the mountains often brings afternoon storms—and more people on the trails—so an early start today is essential.

Pick up your off-road vehicle and head toward the historic town of Silverton, soaking in the jaw-dropping scenery along the Million Dollar Highway, one of the most spectacular drives in America. From there, set out on the iconic Alpine Loop, a high-country route that connects Silverton to Lake City and back.

The loop can be driven in either direction, but we recommend climbing Engineer Pass first and returning via Cinnamon Pass. Don’t miss the lookout point on the way up Engineer—it’s unforgettable. At the end of Engineer Pass, you’ll drop into the charming town of Lake City, a perfect spot for a quick lunch before continuing on. As you make your way back over Cinnamon Pass, take the short detour to American Basin, where summer wildflowers explode in brilliant color.

On the return trip, we love stopping in Silverton for dinner—and we never skip a sweet treat at the Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory.

Today is the perfect day to catch your breath.

Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely brunch at Cassidy’s Café before unwinding with a day pass at Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa. Treat yourself to a private hot springs soak and a session in the natural Vapor Caves for the ultimate relaxation.

If you’d rather stay active, explore the trails and waterfalls at Box Cañon Falls Park, then reward yourself with coffee and a sweet indulgence at Mouse’s Chocolates.

In the evening, take in a movie, play, or exhibit at the historic Wright Opera House, and cap off the day with a drink at the seasonal Imogene Rooftop Bar.

Start early and grab a sandwich to go from Kami’s Sami’s and make your way to the breathtaking town of Telluride, choosing between Ophir Pass or the more challenging Imogene Pass depending on your skill and comfort level.

Once in town, enjoy a casual lunch at the beloved Brown Dog, famous for its wide variety of pizzas, then spend some time browsing Telluride’s charming boutiques.

Pro tip: Park above town at the lodge and take the scenic gondola ride down—it’s a quintessential Telluride experience.

Before heading back to Ouray, drive up to Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. Return to Ouray via the highway or the scenic Last Dollar Road, and cap off the day with dinner at Brickhouse 737.

Enjoy a leisurely start to your last day, then pack a picnic and set out for Porphyry Gulch—a short, scenic drive that leads to the sparkling waters of Bullion King Lake.

Keep an eye out for waterfalls along the way, and take your time soaking in the alpine beauty.

When you’re ready, return to Ouray for one last evening on the town to celebrate the week’s adventures.