Birding Ouray, Colorado with Beers at Ouray Brewery

Birding and Beers Goes to Ouray!

Join us for a high-elevation adventure as Birding and Beers heads to the mountain town of Ouray, Colorado! We'll spend the morning exploring town in search of elusive high-country birds—including the Black Swift—before capping off the outing with brews and hearty eats at a local brewery.

Birding
We’ll meet at 8:00 AM outside the back entrance of the Ouray Visitor Center. Ample public parking is available at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool & Fitness Center, located next door to the Center. From there, we’ll set out along the Uncompahgre River Walk Loop. After about an hour, we’ll begin heading south through the edge of Ouray toward our main destination: Box Canyon Falls, famed for its breeding population of Black Swifts.
Please note: Box Canyon Falls now requires an entrance fee, payable in person.

• $7 | Ages 18–62
• $6 | Ages 62–74
• Free | Ages 75+ and kids 3 and under

We’ll visit the Lower Falls to look for nesting swifts, and if time and energy allow, we may climb to the Upper Falls to complete the experience.

Trail Notes:
The walk from the Visitor Center to Box Canyon Falls is about 1 mile with a slight elevation gain (~200 feet). If you’d prefer not to walk, you’re welcome to drive and meet the group at the Falls. Expect some stairs at the canyon. Plan for total walking distance of about 3 to 3.5 miles for the full day, including the walk to the brewery.

Beers
After birding, we’ll stroll a half-mile back to Ouray Brewery on Main Street. The brewery offers classic American pub fare and a rotating tap list of local beers. We'll aim to wrap up the event between 12:00 and 1:00 PM.

What to Bring

• Binoculars (a must!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection
• Water and snacks
• A sense of fun and adventure

Restrooms are available at both the Visitor Center and Box Canyon Falls.

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We’re excited to spend a morning with you in stunning Ouray—where mountain birds and crisp brews await!

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