Colorado's Charming Town In The Rocky Mountains Is The 'Switzerland Of America'

Nestled 7,800 feet above sea level, a small town in Colorado has gained a reputation as the "Switzerland of America." That's because 150-year-old Ouray is surrounded by towering mountain peaks reaching to 13,000 feet and beautiful cliffs and valleys that rival its European counterpart. But unlike Switzerland or some of the most iconic landmarks to visit in Colorado that may spring to mind, setting it apart as a unique destination in the Centennial State.

It's that lack of ski resorts that seems to have preserved Ouray's Victorian charm and bustling downtown as well. Any time of year, the historic downtown district offers a true mountain-town experience featuring local artists, specialty goods, and outdoor equipment for those looking to explore the San Juan Mountains in the southern Rocky Mountains. But there's more to Ouray than shopping. Tourists and locals alike enjoy its hot springs.

Just like in Switzerland, Ouray offers relaxing pools heated by the earth itself. Four different hot springs in the city provide varied experiences. If you're looking for a quiet, relaxed, or romantic getaway, consider Wiesbaden Hot Springs, which features a luxury hotel. For a more family-focused hot springs experience, the Ouray Hot Springs Pool provides volleyball nets, a climbing wall, and waterslides.

Of course, there's more to Ouray than its unique downtown and thermal springs. Its remote and mountainous surroundings offer natural scenery that rivals Switzerland's can't-miss tourist attractions. Ouray prides itself on its three W's: wildlife, wildflowers, and waterfalls.

In the summer months, the mountains around Ouray are full of wildflowers along their biking and hiking trails. From behind the wheel, drivers can see the scenery from the Million Dollar Highway or via several Jeep tours that tackle the mountain passes. Plenty of waterfalls also await visitors here, including the 285-foot Box Cañon Falls just outside of downtown Ouray. Twin Falls and Bear Creek Falls are also popular viewpoints for those looking to explore nature around the city.

And, of course, with so much nature surrounding the city, wildlife is abundant. Participants in a TripAdvisor forum have shared stories of mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and mule deer. Bird watchers can look for black swifts at Box Cañon Falls during their nesting season, typically early June through early September. Altitude and seasons both impact animal communities, so different tours will likely provide different animal viewing opportunities. 

The beautiful, looming San Juan Mountains are, of course, the most iconic feature in Ouray that fuels its reputation as the "Switzerland of America." Its elevation and plentiful access to waterfalls don't hurt either. But the town itself has a unique history that feels like it was plucked out of a European fairy tale, offering mountainous vistas from anywhere in the town.

Historic inns and hotels line the streets. The Matterhorn Inn elicits Swiss sensibilities. Nearly the entire town of Ouray is registered as a historic district, and the architectural heritage is preserved in its facades and historic storefronts. So even if hiking or climbing aren't part of your repertoire, a stroll through Ouray or an overnight stay will provide a sense of Switzerland's wonder.

And, while Ouray may be the "Switzerland of America," it's not the only U.S. town to celebrate its similarities with the mountainous European country. America's "Little Switzerland" is a charming gem in the Midwest, and Oregon has its own "Little Switzerland" with mountain views and plenty of recreation. There's even an idyllic lake village farther west, often called the "Switzerland of California."