Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

My Thoughts: (and reasoning for creating this thread)
In the 'sport' of off-roading, in general, there are many different levels of interest. Some people are really, really into it, while their spouse may not be, and may either only go out with them occasionally, or perhaps never do at all, because they have no interest in it whatsoever.

With so many different people with all kinds of interests in life, this makes total sense. Everyone has things that they are 'into', and it doesn't mean one interest is 'better' than another or anything like that at all.

In a lot of cases, it might even make sense that people have completely different interests and spend time away from each other once in a while as they step out to get involved with whatever it is that they are into.

Being 'into' off-roading as I am, I know I'm biased, and my opinion may not count for much, but for those that aren't really into the whole off-roading thing at all (or at least not into it like their spouse or partner or friend or whoever), please understand, my primary interest in going to the FJ Summit in the first place was NOT necessarily the off-roading part, but rather, the PLACE where the event takes place (and now, it's the people we get to hang out with as well).

That's right. Long before we ever got an FJ Cruiser, and many years before they ever even started having the FJ Summit, my wife and I have been going to Ouray for vacation every summer for a week in July.

Actually, it all started one time when we were going on a planned 'loop trip' around Colorado. Ouray just so happened to be 'along the way' as we were headed south between Grand Junction and Durango. Once we got there (just a potty stop on the way south), we were so touched by the charm of this little town as well as the extreme beauty of the surrounding area that we decided to change it up a bit, by stopping early for the day and stay there over-night, instead of where we originally planned on staying further south.

When we got up the next day, it was amazing! We hated to leave, but we already had the rest of the trip planned, and decided to go ahead and get on the road. As it turned out, it was the last time that Ouray would ever be, for us, 'a stop along the way', and has, at least once every year since, become a prime destination.

We still like to do longer road-trips and see other things around the state, but Ouray has definitely been 'our spot' for a long time now. Even if we didn't even own a vehicle anymore, and had to take a bus or taxicab to Ouray, we'd still go there every year, just to be immersed in the beauty for a while, if nothing else.

There are enough places to go hiking from trailheads right in town that we'd never hike the same trail even if we chose a different trail every day while there for a couple weeks. Beyond that, once you drive even a couple miles out of town, you've already passed so many more trails that you'd be set up for another month.

Oh, and if you're not into that kind of thing either, there are lots and lots of other things to do right there in town...

Add-On Activities for Down-Time?
If you're wondering what else there is to do in Ouray during the FJ Summit, please consider the growing list in the OP...

TESTIMONIALS?
If you're not at all into the sport/hobby of off-roading, and have already been here for the FJ Summit in the past, please chime in and tell us what you liked about being here, and what those that haven't been here yet have to look forward to.

Looking for Alternative-Activities?
If you're not at all into the sport/hobby of off-roading, but are open to considering the possibility of going to an event like the FJ Summit (maybe because your 'significant other' really wants to go), please consider my thoughts below and chime in here in this thread to let us know your thoughts.

In years past, there have been a few conversations here and there leading up to the FJ Summit where people planned on getting together at the event to do other things while the others are out on the trail runs. If that sounds interesting to you, and you're into the idea of meeting up with others (perhaps less-interested spouses) for some shopping, or a spa day, or whatever, please chime in here. Ya never know what you might be able to come up with before you even get to town.



All that just to say, even if you aren't into off-roading at all, please don't let that aspect of this kind of event keep you from coming to this crazy-beautiful place.

To make sure that I'm not leaving out perhaps the most important point of this event, I should mention the vast array of great people from all over the country (and beyond); meeting other people for the first time and making new friends (some that last a lifetime), meeting back up with those that we've met before, and even those that traveled from the same region getting the chance to spend some good, quality time with each other in Paradise. :cheers: It really is an unmatched event.


If you're not 'into' anything I've mentioned above, that's fine. I'm not going to argue with you or try to talk you into coming here. I just want to make sure you know more of what this place and this group of people have to offer.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

word. pun intended


This is easy. Let them drive.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

This is easy. Let them drive.

Ummm... :notsigned:


:jester:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Thanks, mikey

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

An alternative point of view covered in my "lessons learned" thread.

Our first trip to Ouray was much different than the outdoors mecca you described. Honestly, I'll have to work hard to convince my wife that we ever want to come back. After being yelled at all day long for holding up the trail run from stopping to get photos of flowers, mining ruins, etc. I had one ticked off little lady in my rig. That coupled with the exorbitant prices on the hotel and gas kind of left me thinking that a trip there during a "non-event" would be better.

We have many of our own slices of heaven within 200 miles of Vegas, so convince me to come to Ouray. :cheers:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

An alternative point of view covered in my "lessons learned" thread.

Our first trip to Ouray was much different than the outdoors mecca you described. Honestly, I'll have to work hard to convince my wife that we ever want to come back. After being yelled at all day long for holding up the trail run from stopping to get photos of flowers, mining ruins, etc. I had one ticked off little lady in my rig. That coupled with the exorbitant prices on the hotel and gas kind of left me thinking that a trip there during a "non-event" would be better.

We have many of our own slices of heaven within 200 miles of Vegas, so convince me to come to Ouray. :cheers:

Man, I'm really sorry to hear about how you were treated poorly on the trail run. That's a bummer.

non-event times to go to Ouray? = there aren't many during the summer.

prices = unfortunately, that's part of going to a little tourist town like this. I can totally understand your point there though.

convince you? = Not trying to do that with this thread at all. It's only meant to act as an aid for people that want to come, but have a reluctant spouse/partner/travel mate or whatever. Just trying to give people a broader perspective of what 'a trip to Ouray' could mean for them than what is afforded by simply thinking of it as an off-roading event.

Again, I'm sorry you didn't enjoy your time in Ouray. Hoepfully, if you do ever get out this way again, we'll hook up and I'll buy you a beer. Till then, take care, and hope your travels (where they may take you) are enjoyable and more memorable in happier ways. :cheers:

I think the topic is things to do in Ouray other than trail ride which may be of interest to your spouse...

Generally, perhaps that's the idea.

...I agree that there are lots of nice things in Ouray. It's really a charming little town (Switzerland of America?). But if you and your spouse want to enjoy the town together, Vegas Nick may have the idea. Come at some time other than Summit. The town is packed, literally, at Summit. For a more leisurely experience, some other time is probably better. Personally, I enjoyed the large crowd, but I only had to cater to myself.

^^^^ valid point of view, indeed. It's just that my wife and I like the place so much that I'd never consider skipping out on our annual pilgrimage just because it's busy or whatever. Sure there are people there....for the same reason we are. Still, I know what you mean.

However, this thread is not a thread about 'How to have a nice, relaxing time in Ouray all by yourself'.

It's about people that want to go to the FJ Summit and hang out with a bunch of other FJ Cruiser owners and enthusiasts, but need a little help showing their partner some more about the place to help encourage them to 'go for it'.

subscribed... to get ideas for our 1st FJ Summit! Bev is already searching B&Bs over the KOA. Looking forward to sharing some good ideas from past attendees for the week away from the Texas heat! Thanks for starting the thread!!

You're very welcome :bigthumb:
One of the B&Bs that we've stayed at is on the south end of town on Main Street, and pretty close to Summit HQ. It's the 'Christmas House' B&B. If you're into that sort of thing (I can see how it would be a big turn-off to some...it didn't bother me, but I know my folks would go nuts over that kind of place), it's really neat.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Keep it on topic please.

Thank-you.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

I think the topic is things to do in Ouray other than trail ride which may be of interest to your spouse. I agree that there are lots of nice things in Ouray. It's really a charming little town (Switzerland of America?). But if you and your spouse want to enjoy the town together, Vegas Nick may have the idea. Come at some time other than Summit. The town is packed, literally, at Summit. For a more leisurely experience, some other time is probably better. Personally, I enjoyed the large crowd, but I only had to cater to myself.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

subscribed... to get ideas for our 1st FJ Summit! Bev is already searching B&Bs over the KOA. Looking forward to sharing some good ideas from past attendees for the week away from the Texas heat! Thanks for starting the thread!!

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Definitely a good idea thread. If I were going I'd be paying dire attention.

Went to a North Carolina meet and eat the other weekend. Told my wife we could hit the outlet mall on the way . Cost us an extra $400 or so essentially.

Careful planning is a good idea!

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

:bump:

Registered for our 1st Summit and got a cabin in town.... now I need some experienced talk here for (or from) the wives. I don't think the $20 woman's T-shirt that I pre-ordered at registraction will be enough for a happy face the entire week!

Anybody thinking :thinkerg: of a "Wheeling and Wine" activity that I read about earlier at another gathering (WTF in Texas maybe)?

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

I haven't registered yet and may miss the window yet again do to my company not being able to forecast my work out that far. That being said Mrs OC falls into the "scared to death, want to crawl into the fetal position" on any off roading. I've tried to show her on the views seen by many photos. That seems to look less scary and more like fun.

The other issue is camping. She was forced to camp her whole upbringing since her parents purchased a plot of land and decided to "improve" it. She is done with porta potties and tents. I'll see if she is interested, otherwise a long lonely journey from Houston. Maybe Ill promise a spa day in there...

:lol:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Sign up for the photo trails, or volunteer for the trail work. Very relaxed.

How about a thread for those that don't want to do the trails. Get a couple of groups together to go to Telluride for shopping :ladysman:. Or to go tour the mines, or even get a early start to drive a few to Durango to ride the train. The hot springs to get pampered a bit?

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

While the wife was originally excited about the Summit when we started talking about it last year, we have since been offered a stay with friends in Seattle. I initially thought the Summit trip would get pushed back. After I suggested giving up a trail day for a trip to Telluride or somewhere else, we were back in business. I figure it is her vacation too. I'm more interested in the trip and the sights anyway. If momma ain't happy, ain't no one happy...:jester:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

I volunteer to host a Passion Party.


Sent from AutoGuide.com App

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Mine is coming with. As stated above, she was excited at first, now...who knows. I have offered to take a friend with me, but swears she wants to go. I'm hoping she makes friends there, and maybe finds something else to do one day. Her gifts are shopping and day drinking...lol.

Sent from AutoGuide.com Free App

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Thanks for the info !!!!!

I might have some traveling companions that are not interested in the trails, but are willing to go with me and have some fun

Perfect info for my situation !!!!

 

Thanks for the info !!!!!

I might have some traveling companions that are not interested in the trails, but are willing to go with me and have some fun

Perfect info for my situation !!!!

You're welcome. :cheers:

There are a lot of things to do in the area besides going on the trails. I've spent some time heading out on the highways out of town down towards Durango, out of Teluride past Ophir and Trout Lake and on both the highways toward Moab and Grand Junction. Lots of photo opportunities with older buildings, flowers, scenic views, etc.

Do some reading about the area and you'll find that there is a lot of history from mining to movies. There's a website all about the locations of the filming of the original True Grit.

Lots of little shops with everything from clothing to candy. Mouse's in Ouray is an awesome little shop with handmade truffles, different desserts, and they roast their own coffee out in the front of the shop in a big antique coffee roaster. Silverton and Teluride are nearby with even more shops. There are also some spas if the need to be pampered is there.

Drive down to Silverton and check out the narrow gauge train and the miner's memorial statue on the hillside.

Check out the architecture on the buildings around town.

Pack up a lunch and go have a picnic in the forest or one of the parks around town.

Go swim or hang around the Hot Springs.

Grab a beverage and kick back and just enjoy the beauty of the area and maybe toss in meeting a few new friends.

Yep. That was my whole reason for creating this thread.
Not sure if you noticed my second post or not, but that's where I stashed my own list. Since this was originally meant to be a conversation, and not just an info thread, I put the info in the second post. However, now that I think about it, I think it would make more sense to just move my list to the OP. So, I will do that this evening...

Ouray Colorado - Visitor Guide

You can view it online or order it if you need some reading for "the office". :rofl:

Thanks, James. Ya, I always get one of these every year. I will add this to the list. :cheers:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

There are a lot of things to do in the area besides going on the trails. I've spent some time heading out on the highways out of town down towards Durango, out of Teluride past Ophir and Trout Lake and on both the highways toward Moab and Grand Junction. Lots of photo opportunities with older buildings, flowers, scenic views, etc.

Do some reading about the area and you'll find that there is a lot of history from mining to movies. There's a website all about the locations of the filming of the original True Grit.

Lots of little shops with everything from clothing to candy. Mouse's in Ouray is an awesome little shop with handmade truffles, different desserts, and they roast their own coffee out in the front of the shop in a big antique coffee roaster. Silverton and Teluride are nearby with even more shops. There are also some spas if the need to be pampered is there.

Drive down to Silverton and check out the narrow gauge train and the miner's memorial statue on the hillside.

Check out the architecture on the buildings around town.

Pack up a lunch and go have a picnic in the forest or one of the parks around town.

Go swim or hang around the Hot Springs.

Grab a beverage and kick back and just enjoy the beauty of the area and maybe toss in meeting a few new friends.

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

You know Moose needs some Mouse !!!! :rofl:

 

Re: Uninterested & Less-Excited Spouses - Please Check In Here [RE: Ouray & FJ Summit

Ouray Colorado - Visitor Guide

You can view it online or order it if you need some reading for "the office". :rofl:

 

What about kids? I have a 7 and a 2 year old. Thrill on the hill had some activities for kids at the camp. Mine didn't come with me but if I go to summit they probably will. Anyone else bring little ones?

 

Great question!
Yes. There are definitely things for kids; both at the Summit and elsewhere in Ouray and the surrounding area.

At the Summit, there are usually some types of activities geared especially for them, including a 'kids raffle' so they don't feel totally left out when they see us winning all kinds of goodies for our rigs. I'm sure there are other things for kids too, and hopefully others will chime in.

In town, there's a great playground in the park just outside of the hot springs pool, and a water slide at the pool.

You can go watch the glass blower at work.

Geez, I know that's not much, but I know there must be more things for kids.
At worst, it's one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I don't think there's any age restrictions on appreciating the kind of beauty that they will get introduced to on some of the trail runs.

Also, just getting to meet and hang out with some of the other kids that will be there is always a good thing too...

 

Smoke pot..... It's legal, I'm just saying.

 

Thanks. Good to know. Might help convince the wife.

 

I'm bringing my wife, and my 11 and 9 year old kids. I'm sure there will be other kids there for them to play with based on everything I've read.