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Ouray dirt bagging (ice bagging?) question

Original Post
Ben Stabley · · Portland, OR · Joined Sep 2014 · Points: 207

I'm planning to go to Ouray for a week in January after the festival with a friend and do some ice climbing at the park. This will be our first time ice climbing, and first time visiting Ouray. We're planning to meet up with a few other experienced folks who have visited Ouray a few times.

We are hoping it'll be acceptable to drive there and sleep in my van, since we can't practically afford to stay in a hotel like the folks we're meeting up with. However, I'm a bit worried about getting harassed by the police or other authorities.

Are the powers in Ouray generally accepting of a temporary transient who does his best to be respectful and maintain a low profile? Are there any recommended, ideally free, spots to park overnight? Any other tips?

We're planning to hire guides for a few days, purchase park memberships, etc, so it's not as if we're leaches on the Ouray economy...just want to save a little money.

Thanks!

sean o · · Northern, NM · Joined Oct 2012 · Points: 48

I did this a few years ago, sleeping in my truck at one of the pullouts a few miles up Red Mountain Pass without any problems. You can get a cheap shower (and a nice warm soak) at the public hot springs on the lower end of town.

Bill Kirby · · Keene New York · Joined Jul 2012 · Points: 480
George W · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Sep 2015 · Points: 6

There are lots of dirtbags around here, so it's not unusual. Though, I can't speak to the cops typical behavior. If it's real cold, consider driving toward Ridgway/Montrose because the weather can be significantly different. Otherwise, I think you'll find a suitable pullout in the pass. Definitely go to Ourale house for a pint, or three. Hutch is an old dirtbag climber and has a wealth of info and funny history for those who fit in with his unique establishment. You have to like craft beer, don't ask for a Blue Moon ;)

Kevin Zagorda · · Glen Haven, Co · Joined Jul 2008 · Points: 600

I've seen people camping at pullouts along Camp Bird Road - much quieter than Red Mtn Pass.

Elias Jordan · · Mazama, WA · Joined Nov 2011 · Points: 136

Its very easy to car camp and sleep in the town of Ouray. Be friendly and low-key. If you're looking for a shower, feel free to message me.

-Elias

Ben Stabley · · Portland, OR · Joined Sep 2014 · Points: 207

Thanks all for your advice. I'm looking forward to the trip!

garrettem · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Mar 2008 · Points: 575

I would second staying on camp bird rather than red mtn. Much closer to climbing and town than most, if not all the pull offs on Red mtn.

Dave Burny · · buffalo, ny · Joined Mar 2013 · Points: 50

Enjoy, it's a fun place! Check out (even if just to hang after a climb) the hotel with a sauna basement (natural springs) pretty neat!

ColinM McKim · · Frederick, CO · Joined Feb 2012 · Points: 50

It's a bit of a drive, but there's plenty of free BLM land to camp on west of Montrose off 90. Warmer too than in the mountains.

Kevin Zagorda · · Glen Haven, Co · Joined Jul 2008 · Points: 600
Dave Burny wrote:Enjoy, it's a fun place! Check out (even if just to hang after a climb) the hotel with a sauna basement (natural springs) pretty neat!
The Weisbaden "Radon Cave"
Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Colorado
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