Ouray, Colorado - Hot Springs

Not just another mining town, Ouray was named for a Ute chief whose nomadic ancestors had long traveled to this place to soak in its sacred waters.  Now, the Ouray hot springs are channeled by the town into a large pool with several temperature levels in which bathers from all over the world soak in relaxation.  Fortunately for Ouray and its many bathers, these waters contain little or no sulfur, so there is no sulfuric smell like many other hot springs.

While I was there, I met a British family, a Korean couple and a day camp class from Telluride.  Entry is $10 (you can leave and return all day), and they rent towels and bathing suits for a small fee.  Hot showers, hair dryers and a snack bar round out the offerings at the pool.  Upstairs is a fitness center.  For those who plan to return again and again, there are discount plans, like the 20-pass card available for $120, with no expiration date.

Not just another mining town

The view is spectacular, as Ouray is bounded on all sides by mountains soaring another 6000 feet (2000m) above the already-high town.  Soaking in the pool, I turned in a circle and snapped photos in quick succession - not a bad one in the bunch, including one of a sign telling all that Switzerland is 5000+ miles away.

Ouray calls itself "Switzerland in America," and while I have not visited in winter, photos of these mounains in winter show beaautiful alpine scenes. I understand the Ouray Ice Park is unique in the world of ice parks, and climbing the ice is free. (But don't look for me climbing ice walls anytime soon!) http://www.ouraycolorado.com/icepark

If you visit the Ouray's hot springs, save a little time to wander another block or so up the main street to visit the shops and cafés.  And do wander into Mouse's Chocolates for the best truffles this side of Brussels.  Belgian chocolate, and divine. (And yes, they ship 1-877-7WESHIP) http://www.mouseschocolates.com/