Mount Ouray Peak
Mount Ouray rises to 13,971 ft in Sawatch-Range within the Sawatch Range range.
It is named after a famous Ute Indian chief known as Chief Ouray. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, Mount Ouray is a popular destination for mountaineering enthusiasts.
Covering an area of approximately 80 square miles, Mount Ouray boasts a challenging terrain that attracts experienced climbers. During the winter season, the mountain experiences a varied snowpack range, with depths ranging from 10 to 20 feet. This makes it an appealing destination for winter sports enthusiasts, such as backcountry skiers and snowboarders.
The mountain's snowpack contributes to the runoff of several creeks and rivers in the area. One notable example is the Cochetopa Creek, which receives water from the melting snow on Mount Ouray. This creek is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and is home to various species of trout.
Mount Ouray holds historical significance, as it is named after Chief Ouray, who was a prominent leader of the Ute Indian tribe. Chief Ouray played a significant role in negotiations between the Ute people and the United States government, advocating for peace and fair treatment of his people. The mountain's name serves as a tribute to his legacy.
With its impressive elevation, diverse snowpack range, and the involvement of Chief Ouray in its naming, Mount Ouray in the Rocky Mountains stands as a captivating destination for mountaineers and nature enthusiasts alike.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Sawatch-Range range.
Snowpack near Mount Ouray
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Independence Pass | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Beaver Ck Village | 2 in | → |
| Nohrsc Park Cone | 1 in | → |
| Vail Ski Area Phq | 4 in | → |
| Nohrsc Hayden Pass | 1 in | → |
| Mccoy Park | 1 in | → |
| Castle Creek Near Aspen, Co | 2 in | → |
| Cochetopa Pass | 1 in | → |
| Elliot Ridge | 1 in | → |
| Loveland Basin | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Michigan Creek | 1 in | → |
| Vail Ski Area Mid-Mtn | 2 in | → |
Streamflow near Mount Ouray
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Rio Grande Near Monte Vista | 59 cfs | → |
| Pinos Creek Near Del Norte | 6 cfs | → |
| Arkansas River Near Wellsville | 215 cfs | → |
| Tomichi Creek At Gunnison | 19 cfs | → |
| Cochetopa Creek Below Rock Creek Nr Parlin | 5 cfs | → |
| Leavenworth Creek @ Mouth Nr Georgetown | 11 cfs | → |
| San Francisco C At Upper Sta | 1 cfs | → |
Weather Forecast
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Mount Ouray
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Mount Ouray.
Ski areas
- Steamboat Ski Resort
- Solvista Basin At Granby Ranch
- Keystone Resort
- Sandia Peak Ski Area
- Breckenridge Ski Resort
- Eldora Mountain Resort
River runs
- Pass Creek
- Salida Town Run (Stone Bridge To Salida Ww Park)
- Salida Whitewater Park
- Salida To Rincon
- Arkansas River Segment 3
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