Perimeter Trail Extension and Trailhead Project Moves Ahead

The $87,000 project includes three components.  OTG will construct 0.4 miles of new trail on the west side of Ouray.  The new trail section will climb to a scenic ledge before dropping to the new trailhead at the City Shop on Oak Street.  The second portion of the project is the construction of a 32’ steel and wood bridge over a ravine on the new trail section.  The bridge will include a bench allowing hikers to stop and enjoy an impressive view of Ouray to the south.  The final piece of the project is the construction of two new trailhead kiosks with parking, including updated maps, interpretive material and guidance for hikers.  The kiosks will be located at the new trailhead on Oak Street and the current trailhead east of town, across from the Visitor Center.

As always, the local community and OTG membership continue their tradition of generous support of projects that improve the Ouray area hiking experience.  OTG has received grants from the City of Ouray, Western Colorado Community Fund, San Miguel Power Association, and the Hermitage Fund of the Telluride Foundation.  

The Hermitage Fund was created in remembrance of the Reverend Sylvester Schoening, “Father Syl," a Catholic priest who was a pastor in Colorado, spent his retirement living on Wrights Mesa, and enjoyed the outdoors in Ouray.  The Hermitage Fund donations are earmarked specifically for the bridge, which will bear a plaque honoring the memory of Father Syl.

Construction will begin in April and May, and we hope to have this exciting new trail section open to the public by mid-summer 2023.