Box Canyon Falls - Ouray, Colorado
This dramatic waterfall is the culmination of Canyon Creek narrowing and spilling thousands of gallons a minute of water...
Due to the rugged and steep terrain surrounding Ouray and the continuous snowmelt from the high country, we are blessed with some spectacular waterfalls. The one most frequently visited, and enjoyed by all, is Ouray's very own "wonder of the world", the Box Canyon Falls & Park. The Box Canyon Falls & Park is located in the southwest corner of Ouray, reachable either on foot or by car. This dramatic waterfall is the culmination of Canyon Creek narrowing and spilling thousands of gallons a minute of water over and through a spectacular, boxed geological formation formed over hundreds of years.
At the Visitor Center you should first peruse the extremely interesting interpretive panels describing the formation of this boxed canyon and from there you can then enter the falls via the walkway and suspension bridge. You can also take the short, but steep, hike to the bridge above the falls to look down on the fury of the water as it plummets into the canyon and, as an added treat, enjoy a beautiful view of Ouray. There is a small admission to the Park. Fees are $3.00 for adults, $1.50 for children (5-12 years) and $2.50 for seniors (65+). Summer hours for this must-see park are 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
If you're looking for a great place for a picnic, there are a number of gazebos (some with grills) and picnic tables situated throughout the park that would be perfect for your family gathering or just for a peaceful place to get away with friends. This beautiful park was recently designated by the National Audubon Society as an important bird area. Don't miss seeing the Box Canyon Falls and enjoying the Park; it's an experience you won't forget.
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