As you can see Ouray County Road 7 is Breathtaking. It also leads to a campground and public land access to the Blue Lakes Trail-head. The land surrounding the road is private until you reach the cattle guard and National Forest sign. The photo above was taken from the road before we reached public land.
To reach Ouray County Road 7 from Montrose head South on 550. At the Ridgway Stop light turn right onto Sherman Street or Highway 62 (which leads you to Telluride). Head up the hill and go past the cemetery. You will see a brown National Forest Access sign right before the start of a bridge. Take a left before the Bridge. This is County Road 7.
From here it is a well maintained dirt road.

This Pond is on Private Land. Mount Sneffels is in the Background. This is a great spot to take a photo but make sure to stay near the road!
Take a look at the times stamp on the photos. It is accurate. Color is somewhat early, but spotty. We had a very dry summer.
I have not traveled much farther than the campground. The whole area is beautiful and worth extra time exploring or hiking. Blue lakes trail is fantastic and well worth the effort. Yet there is so many places to photograph before the campground I have a hard time choosing. Best of luck.
And enjoy the View!
Amy



































