Rock hunting with young children near Silverton/Ouray?

Question

Hi all, we'll be taking a daytrip from Durango to Silverton/Ouray around May 20th. Hopefully weather cooperates although I understand it may be a bit snowy. Any areas that we can safely wander with a 2.5 and 4.5 yr old to look for mineral specimens? Thank you

Answer

Visiting Silverton and Ouray in late May can still present some snowy conditions, especially at higher elevations, so careful planning is important when bringing very young children along for outdoor activities like rock hunting. Most of the established mining areas are steep and rugged, but there are some safer, lower-elevation spots where kids can safely explore and collect minerals.

Tips for planning a rock hunting outing with young children:

Focus on areas that are easily accessible from the town or main roads to minimize exposure to steep or slippery terrain.
Bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as temperatures can be chilly and the ground may be muddy or have patches of snow.
Pack snacks, water, and perhaps a small sled or carrier if you plan to carry the 2.5-year-old over rough ground.

Recommended areas for family-friendly mineral hunting near Silverton/Ouray:

Camp Bird Road near Ouray: Some lower sections along this road have accessible mineral deposits and old tailings piles that can be gently explored. Stay clear of steep cliffs or fenced-off mine entrances.
Silverton town vicinity: The outskirts of Silverton have old mine dumps and tailings where small quartz, pyrite, and other minerals can sometimes be found safely. Walking on flatter areas keeps it child-friendly.
Red Mountain Pass lookout areas: While higher up can still have snow, the lower turnout areas allow kids to safely inspect rocks without hiking far or on steep terrain.

Safety reminders:

Avoid any active mining areas or shafts—they can be extremely dangerous and are often fenced or posted with warning signs.
Keep young children close and supervise constantly, as even small ledges can be hazardous.
Consider visiting local rock shops or small museums in Silverton or Ouray, which sometimes allow kids to handle mineral samples and can be educational if outdoor conditions are poor.

With careful planning and choosing lower-elevation, accessible areas, you can have an enjoyable and safe rock hunting experience with very young children near Silverton and Ouray in late May.