At a Glance
- Distance: ~850 miles
- Drive Time: ~13 hours
- Best Route: I-35 N to I-25 N to US-285 W to US-550 N
- Best Season: June–September
Planning the Austin to Ouray Road Trip
From Austin, I-35 north to Dallas, then north to I-40 west to Amarillo or straight through to I-25 north toward New Mexico and Colorado. From the Colorado border, connect to US-285 west and US-550 north into Ouray.
Flying into Denver and renting a car for the five-hour mountain drive is a popular option for Austin travelers short on vacation time. Either way, the canyon approach into Ouray rewards the journey.
Ouray's Appeal for the Austin Crowd
Austin's outdoor culture — hiking, live music, local food — translates directly to Ouray. Replace Barton Springs with a natural mineral hot springs pool. Swap Zilker Park for Box Canyon Falls. Keep the craft beer and excellent restaurants. Ouray fits the Austin mindset.
Summer highs in Ouray top out around 77°F — a 20-degree reprieve from the Texas heat that Austin visitors describe as transformative. The town also embraces dogs wholeheartedly.
The Lumberyard: Five-Star Condos in the San Juans
Five fully equipped, dog-friendly condos at 55 4th Avenue in Ouray — The Lumberyard sleeps up to 10 guests and earns a 9.9/10 on VRBO and 4.94 stars on Airbnb. Austin groups have rated it one of the best Colorado stays they've experienced.
Book direct at ouraycondos.com for the best available rate. No Airbnb service fee, same great property.