Hot spring a-frames near Silverton

This historic mining town is set in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Unlike most other Colorado mountain towns, Silverton has largely escaped upscale development. A National Historic Landmark, the town is essentially frozen in time and its rich mining history and old west charm are still palpable. Silverton makes an excellent basecamp for hiking and off-roading adventures into the surrounding high country, and campers can find several national forest campgrounds nearby, as well as dispersed camping options. Several RV parks are located right in town.  

The Alpine Loop

Colorado’s Alpine Loop Scenic and Historic Byway traverses the mountainous landscape between Ouray, Lake City, and Silverton. A high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle is necessary to make the 65-mile loop, but several ATV and jeep rental outfitters can be found in Silverton. The route passes numerous ghost towns, abandoned mines, viewpoints, and dispersed camping areas. 

Along the Million Dollar Highway

This 25-mile stretch of highway from Silverton to Ouray is an attraction in itself. The road winds its way up Red Mountain Pass and then hugs a steep cliffside offering dramatic views at every turn. Several mining ruins can be spotted along the way, with numerous places to pull off and enjoy the views. The Million Dollar Highway also provides access to many of the San Juan Mountain’s most popular trails including one to Ice Lakes Basin and its South Mineral Campground, one of the area’s most scenic camp spots.

Ouray

Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is an old western town nestled into a narrow box canyon. It’s a bit more developed than Silverton and has a ton more camping, lodging, and dining options. Hikers can connect to the Ouray Perimeter Trail right from town for views of the city and then continue on to Box Canyon Falls, an impressive waterfall surrounded by towering cliffs.

June through September is high time in Silverton, when most snow has melted in the high country and trails, peaks, and backcountry roads are most easily accessible. The Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run brings hundreds of mountain running enthusiasts to the area in July, and wildflowers put on one of the best shows in Colorado in the Silverton Mountains late in the month. Winter draws hardcore recreationists for some of Colorado’s steepest lift-served, backcountry, and helicopter skiing.  

• Only a handful of national forest campgrounds sit near Silverton and most are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early in the day for the best chance at a spot. 
• Ouray’s Amphitheater Campground is one of the few national forest campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Sites book quickly but you may have luck if you check the reservation website for cancellations. 
• Dispersed campsites line both the South Mineral Fork Road and Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, but make sure you understand the rules before you camp. Always pack out all your trash and keep an eye on campfire restrictions.