Uncompahgre Gorge, Ouray

The twelve miles south of Ouray on US 550 through the Uncompahgre Gorge to the summit of Red Mountain Pass at elevation 11,018 ft., describes the area. The scenery is outstanding and includes the mountain town of Ouray, referred to as the "Switzerland of America" because of its setting at the narrow head of a valley, enclosed on three and a half sides by steep mountains. Two miles south of Ouray is the Bear Creek Tunnel. Immediately to the south of the tunnel, there is a gravel lot for parking, if you are experienced enough for the Bear Creek trail. We stopped long enough to snap a photo of the tunnel and the view going south. This was the most difficult section of the road to build and was completed last. There are mountain curves and narrowing lanes and it's most dangerous in the rain. It is a place to be fully attentive. But is it also incredibly beautiful. The word 'Uncompahgre' means ‘hot water spring’.