Answer: The short answer is: yes, you can absolutely stay in Ouray and still run your SXS on the Alpine Loop — you just need to trailer it to a legal staging area outside town limits. Ouray does not allow OHVs or SXS to drive on city streets (unlike Lake City), but there are several practical places to park your truck and trailer, unload, and jump onto the trails legally.

Answer: Yankee Boy Basin is renowned for its stunning wildflower displays in July, with vibrant colors carpeting the alpine meadows. Visiting during peak wildflower season is undeniably spectacular, but it also attracts a large number of visitors, which can make the drive crowded and parking challenging.

Answer: Ouray and the surrounding San Juan Mountains are a prime area for UTV/ATV adventures, and Yankee Boy Basin is one of the most scenic destinations for half-day tours. Most rental companies are based in Ouray town, but some offer options to meet closer to trailheads or provide guidance on the route.

Answer: Day 8 – Driving from Aspen to Paonia via Marble and Kebler Pass is a beautiful journey, particularly in late September when fall colors are emerging. Marble is famous for its historic marble quarries and the charming small town feel. A short stop at the Marble Museum or a brief walk around the town can be a great photo opportunity. Kebler Pass is renowned for its aspen groves, and the road itself offers multiple pull-offs perfect for scenic photography. Since the road is unpaved but generally well-maintained, take your time and enjoy the views.

Answer: The Perimeter Trail in Ouray is a popular loop that offers fantastic views of the town, mountains, and waterfalls. It’s approximately 6–7 miles long and has moderate elevation gain. For families with younger children, it’s generally doable if you’re prepared to take it slow and carry your 5-year-old when needed.

Answer: Finding short-term RV parking in Ouray can be a bit tricky, especially with a Class C RV towing a trailer, but there are some options for a few hours while you unload and explore the area.

Answer: Visiting Ouray with young children requires balancing weather, trail accessibility, and scenery. Both midsummer and late September have pros and cons, especially when planning hikes for kids aged 2, 5, and 8.

Answer: Both Ouray and Telluride offer excellent Via Ferrata experiences, but they have distinct characteristics and appeal to different types of climbers and adventurers.

Answer: Visiting Ouray in mid-May can still be quite chilly, especially at higher elevations, and there may still be some snow lingering on trails. With toddlers, it’s wise to focus on activities that are accessible, safe, and engaging without requiring long hikes or strenuous outdoor activity.

Answer: Both Ice Lake and Blue Lakes are beautiful hikes near Ouray, but they differ in distance, difficulty, and logistics, which is important given your preferences and timeframe.

Answer: Your Ouray trip from August 21–27, 2025, sounds like a well-planned adventure with a mix of scenic drives, light to moderate hikes, wildlife sightings, and local dining experiences. Here’s a detailed breakdown and some highlights based on your report: