by Kathryn Retzler
Ouray, Colorado
LONG KNOWN AS THE GEM OF THE ROCKIES for it’s
breathtaking setting, Ouray
is fast becoming renowned for its world-class winter sports. The
Ice Park Festival, held annually in January, has been covered by
“National
Geographic” and major sports networks. “Climbing Magazine” features an
International Ice Craft Invitational Exhibition here this year. The
Iron
Dog Challenge Sled Dog Races, also in January and sanctioned by the
International
Sled Dog Racing Association (ISDRA), annually draws racers from the
United
States and Canada.
Nordic skiing, a locals’ favorite sport for over a century and an activity that may be enjoyed by the entire family, attracts visitors from around the world who enjoy groomed trails and moonlight skis. Equipment can be rented locally. Hiking and snowshoeing offer incredible photo opportunities. Rotary Park offers ice skating and Ouray’s own version of ice hockey, “broom ball.” Kids enjoy sledding on the “Children’s Ski Hill” in Ouray.
From the Ice Park, whether you’re watching, competing, or just visiting, it’s an easy walk to Box Canyon Falls, where the waters have thundered through this steep crevice over the millenniums. Cascade Falls at the north east end of town is a comfortable hike, and for ice enthusiasts, an irresistible draw. All three are free.
Leisurely soaks in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, open daily all year, relax and rejuvenate after a day of snow sports or leisurely shopping. For kids of all ages, there are float rentals, too. Downtown Ouray provides year-round shopping, dining and comfortable accommodations, many with hot springs pool passes and half-price ski passes for nearby Telluride.
Plan to dine in one of Ouray’s fine restaurants. At the Outlaw, you’ll find a warm, Western atmosphere and hand-cut steaks. The Buen Tiempo, at the Beaumont Hotel, has great Mexican food and margaritas. The Bon Ton, beneath the St Elmo Hotel, provides fine dining in a mellow room reminiscent of Victorian Ouray. In addition to the best pizza in town, the Historic Western Hotel, on 7th Street offers American cuisine. Look for “the face on the barroom floor” immortalized by singer T.O. Locker. All of these have a full bar and are open for dinner. If you like Cajun food, and cooking in the style of New Orleans, don’t miss La Papillon Bakery and Grill on 7th. Try one of Jody’s po’boys. They’re delicious! Then step next door for some homemade candy or truffles. (We recommend the truffles! Sinful.) Or stop in at Ouray Candy for chocolates or a quick lunch. And regardless of the time of day, take time off for coffee and a little book browsing at Diversions on 6th Street (a half block east of Main-on the “upside” of Sixth.) Check the ads in this issue for the hours of operation for these establishments.
There’s no need to leave town for evening entertainment. Downtown Ouray has its own first-run movie theater, now. On weekends, take in a show with Suzanne’s Broadway to Branson (above Cecilia’s, next to the Post Office). In nearby Ridgway, just a few minutes drive, the Sherbino Theater (see page 10) offers live entertainment and open mike nights. When the moon is full the Nordic Council and Ouray Hot Springs Pool sponsor a “Moonlight Ski and Soak.” Glide through the snow under a full moon above Ironton Park a few minutes south of town, then come back for a hot soak bathed in moonlight!