Do you love to be outdoors? Are you out hiking through forests or climbing a mountain nearly every weekend? If so, there’s one Colorado town that might just be heaven for adventure lovers. In fact, it’s considered one of the best towns for hikers in America! If you’re considering a move and love to hit the trails, this cool town should definitely be on your radar. Even if you’re weren’t planning to relocate, a visit here might just convince you to rethink it!

Welcome to Ouray, Colorado - also known as the "Switzerland of America."
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Ouray was originally a mining town that was incorporated in 1884. The mines eventually ran dry and the area was abandoned by the nearby Denver & Rio Grande Railway, both of which employed many of Ouray’s residents, yet the town managed to survive the test of time.
Library of Congress Archives / Item ID: LC-DIG-ppmsca-18005
Pictured above is a birds-eye view of Ouray, circa 1901.
While there are countless reasons to love Ouray, our favorite is the incredible scenery and nearly endless recreational opportunities.
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And we're not the only ones who love the landscape - Ouray was recently recognized on a national level in a review of the best towns to live if you love the outdoors, especially if you’re a hiker.
Photo by Matt Payne of Durango, Colorado / Getty

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According to Apartment Therapy’s list of the top places to live if you love hiking, Ouray is among the best of the best. The town’s 8,000-foot elevation and its location in the San Juan Mountains are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, especially since there are several hiking trails that begin right in town.
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Other towns recognized included Scottsdale, AZ, Brevard, NC, Bellingham, WA, and Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN.
Whether you are a novice or an expert, you are guaranteed to find a hike to love in Ouray, which features a whopping 76 trails in and around the town.
Flickr/JustTooLazy
Pictured below is a view from the grueling (yet oh-so worth it) Bear Creek Trail; a 12.4-mile out-and-back trek.
Flickr/JustTooLazy
The terrain around Ouray is varied, so whether you're looking to go chasing waters, summit a mountain peak, or just take an easygoing stroll, you'll find the perfect trail.
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Even if you’re not an avid hiker, Ouray has plenty to offer. Though home to less than 1,000 residents, you’ll find tons of shops, restaurants, and even an incredible hot springs in town!
Flickr/Paxson Woelber
What's not to love about this charming mountain town?!

Not sure where to hike first? Why not try The Secret Garden Hike In Colorado Will Make You Feel Like You’re In A Fairytale!

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