History & Heritage

Ouray County offers something for every history buff, from easy access to ghost towns to scenic ranches and world-class museums. Prior to the mining era of the 1860s to 1950s, Ouray was inhabitated by the native Utes. As mining grew, so did the ranching and railroad industries supporting it. Today, Ouray County celebrates its unique Western heritage with museums dedicated to mining, railroading, ranching and the Utes, as well as private collections and a beautiful historic fairgrounds that hosts the annual Labor Day Ouray County Fair & Rodeo.