Ouray (Ice/Mixed) Climbing

For good reason, you'll see more ice climbers in Ouray than any other place in the world. There are more accessible ice routes here than anywhere else I can imagine. The locals have created an artificial climbing ice world by tapping into a penstock and dripping the water over the cliffs of the Uncompaghre Gorge. There are literraly hundreds of possible lines here, and an infinite number of variations.

The Uncompaghre Gorge is to ice climbing as Rifle is to rock climbing. A crucible where you can test your technique, tools, huevos and patience. That's right, the place is so popular you'll want to have a thermos of coffee handy for the waits. For those wanting adventure, head up the Camp Bird Road to the routes up there. You'll find classics like the Skylight, Birdbrain Blvd and the Ribbon.

For a great apres-dinner activity (You did eat at the Buen Tiempo, didn't you?) hike up the road to the "real" Box Canyon. It's an Indiana Jones-esque labrynth of granite slots, thundering waterfalls and suspension bridges that is wonderfully weird and spooky at night. For best effect, don't bring your headlamps, don't tell anyone where you're going and be sure to under-dress and wear smooth soled shoes.

Best of Ouray: Ice

Best Breakfast: Sunroom at the Vic, but you've gotta be staying there or Backstreet Bistro.

Best Breakfast if you're not staying at the Vic: (The Groundskeeper is gone!)

Best Hotel: The Vic (Duh!) but the Riverside is a very close second and the Weisbaden has those cool vapor caves.

Best Dinner: The Buen Tiempo (sadly, closed) or Bon Ton.
 Best Dinner Value: Botomless Pasta Bowl Night at Bon Ton on Thursdays.

Best Bar: The Silver Eagle.

Best Guide Service: San Juan Mountain Guides or Peak Mountain Guides.

Best Shop: Ouray Mountain Sports.

Best Beer: Mr. Grumpy Pants, AKA Ourayle House, AKA Hutch's.

Eds. note the additions in italics were suggested by doligo.