Ultimate Guide To Box Canyon Falls: Ouray, CO

In our opinion, Ouray is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in Colorado. There are so many epic attractions in Ouray that will keep you entertained during your visit. One easy hike that is just on the outskirts of Ouray is Box Canyon Falls. Tucked in a picturesque mountain valley, a stunning waterfall carves its way through the tall canyon walls. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Box Canyon Falls in Ouray, CO. 

Hiking Stats For Box Canyon Falls

Distance: (Lower: .3 miles) (Upper: .4 miles)

Elevation: (Lower: 26 feet) (Upper: 203 feet)

Difficulty: Easy

Type: Out & back

Permit: No, but there is a $7 entrance fee

Bathroom: In visitor center

Dogs: No

Box Canyon Falls is a very short hike, but worth the visit if you are in Ouray, CO. The trailhead is located near downtown Ouray. There isn’t much parking at the trailhead but since it is such a short hike, there is a quick turnaround of cars coming in and out. There is also an overflow parking lot located about ¼ mile from the trailhead that you can park at and walk down. 

Once you are parked, the visitor center is located right at the trailhead where you must purchase a ticket for each member in your party. The cost is $7 for adults (aged 18-62), $5 for children under 18, and $6 for elders over the age of 62.

There are also bathrooms, a small souvenir shop, and a museum located inside. 

Once you purchase your tickets you go out the door and head to the right. You can choose to either go to the more popular destination which is Lower Box Canyon or go up the stairs (left) to Upper Box Canyon. They are both really short hikes, so there should be enough time to do both!

Lower Box Canyon

To get to the lower Canyon, follow along the metal walkway that is flush against the canyon wall. You can see down to the waterfall from this point but to get down to the base of waterfall climb down the set of stairs. 

The falls can be tough too photograph just for the small rock platform. Many people get into the water to snap a great photo of the waterfall. But you are in Colorado after all, so the water will likely be pretty chilly.

Walkway & Stairs Down to The Lower Canyon

Upper Box Canyon

To get to the Upper Canyon you will find a set of stairs right outside the ticket office. The stairs and subsequent trail climb 200 feet, so while it’s short, it can definitely make you out of breath. 

Once you get up the stairs you will see a great view of the town of Ouray! There is a bridge at the top that crosses over the canyon below and looks over the waterfall. Beware if you are afraid of heights. 

If you walk to the other end of the bridge you will walk through a really neat tunnel. There is a trail that goes into town but this is where we decided to turn around and head back to the car.

When is the best time to visit box canyon falls

Box Canyon Falls can be visited all year round. The best time to visit the falls is during late spring-summer when the falls are flowing good. But late summer and early fall can be a decent time, but just expect less water flow.

Hikers can still visit Box Canyon in the winter, but the upper parking lot is closed during the winter months and is unsafe to drive on. Hikers can park down at the bottom of the road and walk up the road to the falls. Do be prepared for winter hiking conditions.

Takeaway

Box Canyon Falls is a unique sight in Ouray, CO. We highly recommend checking out both the Upper and Lower Canyon because they are both short hikes. The trail is short but with the stairs you still feel like you get a good workout.

If you enjoyed this short hike and are looking for a longer hike in the area, be sure to visit Ice Lake & Island Lake or Blue Lakes Hike. And just around an hour drive from Ouray is Telluride an epic mountain town and the historic town of Durango where you can ride on the famous Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.