I feel like a broken record when I talk about weather in Colorado because it’s literally the same everywhere.

The gist - it’s chaotic. Prepare for winter in the summer and summer in the winter.

• Summer (July - early September): Warm days, chilly nights, afternoon thunderstorms basically guaranteed. Pack a rain jacket.

  • Fall (Late September - early October): Crisp mornings, golden aspens, highs in the 50s-60s °F. Probably the best time to exist here, period.

  • Winter (November - April): Cold, snowy, icy. Cute if you want a frozen waterfall vibe but definitely plan for real winter travel and be prepared to pivot plans in case of blizzards and road closures.

  • Spring (May - June): Mud season. Like, literal mud. Some trails are open, most 4x4 mountain passes are still closed, but things are cheap for the off season. Could be hot and sunny. Cold be a blizzard the next day.

Basically layers are key, and don’t expect any weather to stick around. 

If you want the best chance at clear trails and epic views, here’s the cheat sheet:

• July to early September: peak summer. Trails open, 4x4 passes clear, wildflowers out, but you will dodge afternoon storms.

• Late September to mid-October: peak fall. Golden aspens everywhere, crisp air, fewer people, 12/10 would recommend.

• June: lower elevation hikes are accessible, but high passes still snowed in.

• Winter: snowshoeing elopement goals if you’re into the frozen vibe and want the town basically to yourself.

Getting to Ouray isn’t convenient…but that’s kinda the point.

Closest airports:

• Montrose (MTJ) — about an hour drive

  • Grand Junction (GJT) — about 2 hours

  • Durango (DRO) — about 2.5 hours

  • Denver (DEN) — 6+ hour drive (aka: commitment)

• Driving tips:

  • Get ready for winding mountain roads. (It’s not bad, but it’s not your basic freeway either.)

  • If you’re renting a car, spring for the AWD/4WD if you’re doing anything fun.

  • Million Dollar Highway (between Ouray and Silverton) - scenic as hell but not for the faint of heart. No guardrails, lots of cliffs. Drive slow, breathe deep.

• Altitude is real: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. And then hydrate some more.

• Afternoon thunderstorms: Plan outdoor stuff for the morning whenever possible.

• 4x4 roads aren’t paved: If you’re renting, make sure you’re allowed to take your car off-road and check that tire tred!

• Limited service: Don’t expect perfect cell reception…but honestly, you’re here to unplug anyway so that’s really just the world doing you a favor.

Very :)

Dogs are welcome on most trails (Box Canyon is one exception), and there are a bunch of dog friendly patios around town.

There are quite a few dog friendly lodging options too - one being Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Spring which actually has it’s own hot spring for guests.

Choosing a location is less about "what's prettiest" (spoiler: everywhere is pretty) and more about how much effort you want to put in.

• Want easy access? Box Canyon Falls or Cascade Falls are super close.

• Want epic Jeep access? Yankee Boy Basin, Governor Basin, or Imogene Pass.

• Want a wildflower field? Yankee Boy in July is your best bet.

• Want snow? Come in late October through April.

If you’re overwhelmed (because honestly, understandable), booking a local elopement photographer will make your life about 4000x easier. We know what’s blooming, what’s muddy, what’s secretly better at sunrise, and obvs how to dodge the tourists.