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Explore Box Canyon Falls

Ridgway, Colorado

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

0.5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Merritt McKinney

Overlooking the scenic mountain town of Ouray, Box Canyon features a pounding waterfall that feeds the town's hot springs.

Box Canyon Falls is located on the outskirts of Ouray, Colorado less than five minutes from downtown. The nearly 300 foot waterfall crashes through the canyon down to the town's hot springs. The park also features a bridge overlooking the waterfall, river, and the town of Ouray.

To get to Box Canyon Falls from Ouray, turn right off the Million Dollar Highway half a mile from Main Street onto Box Canyon Road. Follow the signs to the visitor center and parking area. Pay $4 at the visitor center and follow the signs toward the falls. There is a five minute walk to the scaffolding overlooking the waterfall.

From the visitor center, you can also hike to the top of the waterfall. Follow the signs "To Perimeter Trail" for half a mile. You will intercept the Perimeter Trail that loops Ouray which is a popular running trail for locals. Stay right and you will immediately encounter a bridge. Look down on your left at the waterfall or right overlooking Ouray. This is one of the best views of Ouray!

Box Canyon Falls is extremely accessible for all ages and skill levels and is well worth the admittance fee. Exploring the falls and bridge should take no longer than an hour so there is no excuse to miss Box Canyon Falls while in Ouray! 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall

Reviews

An amazing slot canyon similar to the Narrows but involves a powerful waterfall crashing from the mountains above. You can take an easy fairly level path into the canyon, or take a short strenuous hike to the high bridge that crosses hundreds of feet above.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Explore Yankee Boy Basin and the San Juan Mountains

Ice Climb the Ouray Ice Park

Lower Cascade Falls

Soak at Ouray Hot Springs

Mineral Creek OHV Trail

Backpack to Dragon's Back via Horsethief Trail