Denver to Ouray
 

We are thinking about a week to 10 day trip to this area this August. We have somewhere to stay in Denver and Ouray and could stop in between. Any suggestions for a loop if we fly in and out of Denver?

Which route do you prefer? Through Nathrop and Gunnison or through Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction?
Each route is 305 to 345 miles in about 6 hours.
If you get an early enough start you should have no problem getting there without an overnight stay.
You other option would be to take the morning California Zephyr from Denver to Grand Junction and then rent a car there.
The Glenwood Canyon view from the train is some of the best scenery you can see without looking at Interstate while driving.

We have been to Grand Junction on a previous trip, so I think the Gunnison route. If we don't need to be rushed, what would you suggest seeing/hiking, etc.?

a stop in gunnison/crested butte would be nice

now we are thinking of flying into Albuquerque, stopping in Sante Fe, Mesa Verde, Telluride and then Ouray, doing a day trip to Gunnison from Ouray.