Mid-spring is an in-between time in Ouray. The winter sports season that drew throngs of ice climbers, snowshoers and cross-country skiers has melted away. And the backcountry trails are weeks away from being ready for four-wheelers and hiking poles.

It’s why Box Cañon Falls Park is so important.

Featuring a trio of trails and up-close views of a thundering 285-foot waterfall with Canyon Creek plummeting to eventually join the Uncompahgre River, the park serves as an important mud season econom...