🏞️ Yankee Boy Basin: 🏔️ Ouray's Must-Do Mountain Adventure 🚙🌼

September 8, 2024

Last week we gave you a glimpse of one of our favorite hidden gems—Ouray, Colorado. Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, this tiny town packs big adventure. And this week? We’re taking you on a ride you won’t want to miss: the legendary Yankee Boy Basin trail. 🌼🏞️

🧭 Trailhead Tips & Must-Know Info Before You Go

Starting just south of Ouray’s city limits, the trail begins at a staging area right across from the trailhead. If you’ve got an off-road rig or you're riding along with someone who does (like us!), you're in for a treat.

🔧 Pro tip: The Hubs has figured out a much better way to load Julius (our trusty ride) to avoid the usual chaos. Always evolving!

🌄 From 8,000 to 12,000 Feet — And Every Breathtaking Inch in Between

This trail may only be 9 miles one way, but what it lacks in length it definitely makes up for in elevation and jaw-dropping views. Starting at just under 8,000 feet, we’ll climb to over 12,000 feet! Trust us—you’ll see why it’s a favorite. 😍

Best time to visit? Mid-July to September is prime time if you want to hit the very top. Plus, wildflowers 🌸 will be at their peak in mid-July!

🏕️ Angel Creek Campground: First-Come, First-Served Serenity

If you’re looking to stay the night, Angel Creek Campground is just a few miles in.

🛶 15 tent-friendly campsites🔥 Fire rings + tent pads🚽 2 vault toilets🚫 No trailers allowed (but there is trailer parking nearby!)

Perfect for tent campers wanting a front-row seat to the mountain magic. ⛺🌙

📸 Must-See Stops Along the Way

💧 “The Drinking Cup” – 3.5 Miles In

A natural spring hugs the rock wall here and gave this scenic stop its name. Bring your camera—it’s a beauty!

⛏️ Camp Bird Mine – 4.5 Miles In

Take a left and step back in time. This is more than a mine—it’s a story of gold, glory, and Gilded Age grandeur.

💰 Thomas Walsh struck gold in Imogene Basin🏠 You’ll spot where the mill, offices, and even the superintendent’s house once stood🪙 By 1902, the mine made $95,000/month—and Walsh shared the wealth, handing out $5,000 checks when he sold the mine!

Walsh’s workers were treated incredibly well for the era:✨ Electric lights🛏️ Enamel beds🍽️ China dishes📚 The latest magazines⏰ One of the first to offer 8-hour work days

🧊 Rock Overhang – 5.5 Miles In

Here’s where the shelf road gets real. A narrow stretch with a dramatic overhang—don’t worry, The Hubs used to drive a propane truck through here in winter. He even had to knock down icicles to fit!

🚻 Rest Stop + Ghost Town Vibes – 6 Miles In

Need a bathroom break? You’re in luck—there’s one here, plus a silver mine with one of the richest lodes in the world. 🪨 In 2023, it changed hands at auction, and the new owners plan to revive it. 🤞

👻 Behind the bathrooms lies the remains of Sneffles Ghost Town. Take a peek—it’s hauntingly cool.

⛰️ Out and Back = Double the Views

The magic of an out-and-back trail? Coming down feels like an entirely different ride. 🌄 Since parking was tight on the way up, we’re making more stops on the way down to soak in the scenery.

Watch our video for all of the views and a few highlights I didn't mention.

🎥 Ride With Us + Let’s Keep Exploring!

If you loved this ride (we sure did!), hit that Like button 👍, Subscribe, and stick around for more epic off-road adventures.

Until next time—keep the rubber side down and the mountain spirit high! 🚙✨