Yankee Boy Basin - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There’s no shortage of things to do at Yankee Boy Basin in Ouray County, Colorado. In the summer months, hikers and mountain bikers can explore the countless trails that wind through the area. For a more leisurely activity, there’s plenty of fishing to be had in the many streams and lakes. And of course, no visit to Yankee Boy Basin would be complete without taking a dip in one of the many natural hot springs. In the winter, the area transforms into a playground for skiers and snowboarders, with several lifts and runs to choose from. No matter what time of year you visit, Yankee Boy Basin is sure to have something for everyone.

Yankee Boy Basin is located in Ouray County, Colorado. The area was first inhabited by the Ute Indians, who named it "Tabeguache," meaning "the gathering place." The first Europeans to visit the area were Spanish explorers, who arrived in the 18th century. They named the area "El Rio de las Animas Perdidas," or "River of Lost Souls." In the 19th century, the area was settled by ranchers and miners. The town of Ouray was established in 1876, and Yankee Boy Basin soon became a popular destination for tourists. Today, the Basin is known for its scenic beauty and its abundance of wildflowers. Every summer, thousands of visitors come to hike, camp, and photograph the colorful flowers that blanket the hillsides.

The best time to visit Yankee Boy Basin is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and camping. The area is also very popular with photographers, as the beautiful wildflowers are in bloom during this time of year. 

1. The road is narrow and winding, so take it slow and enjoy the scenery.
2. Plan your visit for the offseason. Yankee Boy Basin is a popular destination for wildflower enthusiasts, but the crowds can make it difficult to enjoy the scenery. Fall and winter are quieter times to visit, and the views are just as stunning.
3. Get an early start. The best way to avoid the crowds is to arrive at the trailhead before sunrise. Not only will you have the place to yourself, but you can also enjoy the tranquility of the morning hours.
4. Stay on designated trails. Help protect the fragile ecosystems of the basin by sticking to designated trails and avoiding sensitive areas.
5. Leave your pet at home. Pets are not allowed in the Yankee Boy Basin due to the sensitive nature of the area.

1. Yankee Boy Basin gets its name from a legend about a young boy who got lost in the area while chasing a rabbit. He was eventually found safe and sound, but the name stuck.
2. The basin is home to several alpine lakes, including Blue Lake, which is one of the deepest lakes in Colorado.
3. Yankee Boy Basin is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in the state, including cascades that plunge more than 400 feet.
4.  Despite its remote location, the basin was a bustling mining community in the late 19th century, with more than 100 mines in operation at its peak.
5. Visitors can camp overnight in the basin at one of three primitive campgrounds or at a backcountry site with a permit from the Ouray Ranger District office.

In order to really explore Yankee Boy Basin and experience all it has to offer, you should plan on spending at least a full day there. Depending on how much ground you want to cover, you may even need two days.

To reach Yankee Boy Basin, Ouray County, Colorado, take Highway 550 northbound from Ouray. After approximately 3.5 miles, you will see a sign for the basin on the right side of the road. Take the turnoff and follow the dirt road for another 1.5 miles until you reach the basin.

The cost of entrance into Yankee Boy Basin is $5 per person. 

The Basin is open to the public from dawn until dusk.