🧗‍♂️ Trip Report: My Experience at Ouray Canyon Fest

Nestled in the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America”—and for good reason. Towering peaks, alpine waterfalls, and narrow slot canyons make it a paradise for adventure seekers.

This August, I had the chance to attend the Ouray Canyon Fest, a multi-day gathering of canyoneers, instructors, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country.

📍 What Is Ouray Canyon Fest?

Held annually since 2009, Ouray Canyon Fest is hosted by the nonprofit Ouray Canyon Club. The 2025 event ran from August 6–10, offering:

• Canyon descents for all skill levels

• Workshops on anchor building, rope techniques, and rescue scenarios

• Beta exchanges and gear demos

• Community dinners, raffles, and networking with fellow adventurers

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned vertical junkie, the festival is designed to build skills, share knowledge, and celebrate the canyoning lifestyle.

🥾 Why Ouray Is Ideal for Canyoneering

Ouray’s terrain is wild and varied. Canyons like Bear Creek, Cascade Creek, and Corbett Creek offer everything from beginner-friendly rappels to advanced multi-pitch descents. The town itself sits at 7,800 feet, so every canyon starts with altitude and ends with awe.

⚠️ Hazards to Watch Out For

Canyoneering in Ouray is thrilling—but it demands respect. Here are some key hazards I learned to anticipate:

• Flash floods: Afternoon storms can turn dry canyons into torrents. Always check the weather and start early.

• Loose rock and unstable anchors: Alpine terrain means freeze-thaw cycles and erosion. Inspect every anchor and test holds.

• Cold water exposure: Even in summer, water temps can drop fast. Neoprene layers and dry bags are essential.

• Navigation challenges: Some exits are steep, exposed, or poorly marked. Beta and GPS backups are critical.

• Altitude effects: Hydration and pacing matter—especially for visitors not acclimated to 7,800+ feet.

  
  

The festival emphasized safety at every turn, with instructors reinforcing the importance of beta, teamwork, and situational awareness.

🧠 Ropes, Risks, and Reflections

Attending Ouray Canyon Fest wasn’t just about descending canyons—it was about ascending in skill, confidence, and community. From swapping gear tips to sharing sunset stories, the event reminded me that canyoning is as much about connection as it is about challenge.

If you’re looking to level up your canyon game, Ouray is the place. And Canyon Fest? It’s the heartbeat of the scene.