Erin McIntyreâ OurayCounty Plaindealer Ouray County Sheriff Justin Perry and Ouray Police ChiefJeffWood intercept drivers headed up County Road 361 near Senator Gulch in August. Officials launched a public education campaign to talk with drivers about trails etiquette after increased conflicts, accidents and damage on high country roads, which experienced more visitation.
Covid
No. 4 top story of 2020: Tourists flock to Ouray, outdoors amid pandemic
Top 10: Tourists flock to Ouray and the backcountry amid pandemic
With the pandemic shutting down many options for travelers this summer and fueling demand for outdoor activities, the county and surrounding backcountry experienced huge visitation.
After businesses suddenly closed and travel initially slowed after the pandemic hit in March, visitation surged over the summer and into the fall. Visitors filled up campgrounds, hotels and four-wheel drive roads. Stores in Ouray reported sales this su...
