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Move over, Aspen!
There’s a hidden gem we at Travel Off Path are thrilled to reveal as one of the most underrated winter wonderlands right here in our own backyard.
That’s right — you don’t have to venture ‘across the pond’ for festive Christmas market-hopping with cup-fulls of holiday cheer.
As enticing as is to indulge in Europe’s festivities, oftentimes in storybook settings seemingly plucked from a Hallmark movie, in the wise words of one of Youtube’s earliest viral vids, “ain’t nobody got time for dat!”.
Colorado is one of the most centrally located states, and given easy access from Telluride, an ever-so-trendy mountain getaway, if you’re seeking a postcard winter brimming with serene alpine lakes, wondrous landscapes, cozy village vibes, and less crowds, the ‘Switzerland’ of Colorado awaits close by.
Plus, if we’re being honest here — it’s low-key one of Colorado’s most magical Christmas destinations (stick with us to see why December 6th should be circled on your calendar.)
Welcome To Ouray: Little-Known Town Feels Like A Slice Of The Alps
Cradled high in the San Juan Mountains, the little-known town mountainous village of Ouray may be Colorado’s best kept secret.
Rather than splurge your paycheck on a couple of nights in Aspen, or any of the state’s ritzy mountain towns for that matter, Ouray is a wallet-friendly escape amongst some of America’s most astounding natural backdrops.
Not only will you find yourself gawking at towering peaks, but Ouray is equally know for its vibrant waters, including an array of vivid alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls.
While you may not find pasty, sweater-clad yodelers as legend has it in the Swiss Alps, there’s no denying it’s rightfully earned the moniker of America’s “Switzerland”.
Find Winter Warmth In An Unsuspecting Place
Only enhanced come winter, Ouray becomes a textbook winter wonderland, a common phrase you’ll find often overused through February.
However, Ouray lives up to the hype. Better yet, don’t let the frigid average temps of 16 – 38 from December to March deter you from visiting.
Yes, you’ll need to pack layers of winter attire, but to maximize your trip, feel free to pack your swimwear too!
No, you don’t have to polar plunge in one of the gorgeous lakes, but many visitors rave about Ouray’s steamy hot springs — the perfect solution to taking in the scenery without shivering in your skivvies.
Fed by naturally heated mineral water, what soakers (no, those those kind) will truly appreciate is the fact that Ouray’s springs lack sulfar, so your picture-perfect soakin’ sesh won’t be ruined by the stench of rotten eggs.
No offense, Iceland…
These hot springs are the town’s claim to fame. The pools have been opened to the public around for nearly a century,and includes:
- a hot pool (triple digit temps)
- a family pool (closed Labor Day to Memorial Day)
- a lengthy lap pool for exercise (temps around 80 degrees)
While you’re relaxing in this wondrous winter haven, it’s the perfect spot to scope out your next move, whether it be grabbing a bite to eat in the picturesque town center lined down-home eateries, or braving the cold for an epic hike on the popular Perimeter Trail (be weary of slippery conditions) or level up your adventure for a climb up the icy canyon walls, a surprisingly popular activity.
If there’s one spot you have to visit if you’re around, it’s Ouray’s Yule Day celebration held December 6th — watch a festive parade, partake in an Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt, and take pics with The Grinch, and shop ’til you drop at the Christmas Bazaar.
Cozy Lodges & Rustic Luxury
Some mountain towns remain off the radar for a reason — that reason being nobody wants to spend their vacation in the town’s lone Motel 6 (I hold a grudge since they didn’t leave the light on for me…).
That’s not the case for Ouray, home to a surprising amount of accommodations a lot more palatable than Colorado’s household names.
There are an abundance of quintessential wooded cabins and cozy inns to rent throughout town and the outskirts, but best value pick here at Travel Off Path has to be the easy-to-remember Hotel Ouray.
This small, vintage 16-room hotel dates back to the 1800’s. It’s the kind of place you wish walls could talk.
Located smack dab in the town center, it makes for the perfect base with coffee runs and great dinner spot like Corkscrew Tavern & Pizza steps away.
Best of all, Hotel Ouray only accommodates ages 12 and older, so it’s almost like an adults-only stay since kids that age are glued to their screens anyway.
You won’t break the bank here at $130 throughout winter either. Try finding that in Vail…
But if you are the type to splurge on truly luxurious hotels, the following stays likely suit you best:
- Beaumont Hotel & Spa
- Western Hotel & Spa
- Imogene Hotel & Rooftop Bar
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Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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