In southwest Colorado, it’s amazing what all can be tucked into a box canyon. Herein lies Ouray, surrounded by craggy walls that seemingly can’t contain the options for shopping, dining and sightseeing.

It’s a sight to behold from Main Street: the jagged San Juan Mountains over the canyon, the backdrop of the “Switzerland of America,” as Ouray is called. What better place for a quick summer getaway?

Day 1

It’s a long, picturesque drive from the Front Range, and we’re hungry. We head straight to Maggie’s Kitchen, where customers have scrawled their names and their thanks upon the walls. How grateful we are, indeed, for these juicy, generous burgers.

That’s all the fuel we need and more for the jaunt over to Box Cañon Falls, about a half-mile from town. The 285-foot waterfall goes by a lofty moniker: “Ouray’s Wonder of the World.” A short path leads to the cascade through the canyon walls. Also don’t miss High Bridge Trail, with more splendid views overlooking the town.

We descend back to Main Street for more exploring. That’s the way to describe the shops — an exploration. The street is lined with art galleries and gift shops, including the highly curious Gator Emporium. There’s Ouray Mountain Sports for your adventure needs. There’s Khristopher’s Culinaire for that something in the kitchen you never knew you needed. There’s Columbine Mineral Shop, Ouray Books and The Sock Mine.

And there’s Ouray Alchemist, a must-see. It’s home to a re-created pharmacy of the Wild West.

Another must-see for “True Grit” fans: Ouray County Courthouse, the most prominent and probably most famous building in town. Yes, that’s the courthouse from the John Wayne movie. And if you are truly a fan, you will want to drive to Ridgway for more scenes from the movie.

We celebrate Day 1 with a brewery hop on Main Street: first to the locals’ hangout, The Mr. Grumpy Pants Brewing Co., and then on to Ouray Brewery, with a simple food menu of American fare and a scenic deck for catching the sunset.

Day 2

It’s a day full of adventure so we need something quick and filling for breakfast. Artisan Bakery & Cafe does the trick: hot croissant sandwiches for the road.

What road? The Million Dollar Highway, of course.

From Main Street, U.S. 550 heads south for a drive you won’t soon forget. That’s for the stunning scenery and for the mining remains recalling the 1800s era that gave the Million Dollar Highway its name. And that’s for the thrill — minor for some, major for others — along the steep drop-offs en route to Silverton.

It might take you an hour to drive from Ouray to Silverton, depending on how much you stop for pictures.

Another option: off-roading with a guide or on your own if you’ve got the vehicle and know-how, bound for such rugged wonders as Yankee Boy Basin or Imogene Pass, the second highest drivable pass in Colorado.

Or seek a nature experience by foot. Perimeter Trail in Ouray is memorable. The trail encircles the forested reaches above town for about 6 miles, showcasing waterfalls, wildflowers and breathtaking vistas. Several bailouts are situated along the loop so you don’t have to commit to the full length. After all, the hot springs are waiting.

Ouray Hot Springs Pool is ideal for kids, who delight in the games and in the slides, and adults, who have the soothing Overlook Pool to themselves.

The day started with the road that brought the town early fame, and it’s winding down with these equally historic mineral waters. It will end with “True Grit” fame: a splurge at The Outlaw, a restaurant that serves up steaks, pastas and cocktails in an old-timey dining room. Ask about John Wayne’s hat.