Photo credit: www.travelandleisure.com

Exploring Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway

U.S. Route 550 is famously referred to as Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway. This remarkable road, constructed at a staggering cost of approximately $1 million per mile in the early 1920s, meanders 25 miles through the stunning San Juan Mountains, connecting the quaint towns of Ouray and Silverton.

As you embark on your journey, the steep price tag of the highway becomes evident. The road is strategically carved into the cliffside, soaring above a deep gorge, which allows for breathtaking vistas that truly justify the expense. On one side, towering rock walls stand sentinel, while the opposite side plunges dramatically into a narrow canyon.

Traveling southward from Ouray to Silverton places drivers on the outer edge of the road, while those heading north will find themselves closer to the cliff face. The scenes along this route are nothing short of spectacular, framed by majestic peaks that soar over 14,000 feet.

Highlights of the Drive

As the highway climbs towards Red Mountain Pass, reaching an elevation of over 11,000 feet, travelers are treated to views of the three distinctive Red Mountain peaks. Their reddish color, attributed to iron ore deposits, adds to the dramatic landscape. Along the way, you’ll encounter Ironton, a ghost town that has become a favorite spot for moose sightings, as well as the remnants of the historic Idarado Mine. For those in the know, hidden hot springs offer a chance to unwind amid nature’s beauty, complemented by panoramic mountain views at every turn.

Year-Round Accessibility

The Million Dollar Highway is accessible throughout the year, although it may be temporarily closed to manage rockslides and avalanches. Winter drivers should be prepared, particularly from October onward, and are advised to equip their vehicles with tire chains and a four-wheel drive.

Part of the San Juan Scenic Byway

This famed highway is a segment of the larger San Juan Scenic Byway, a picturesque loop spanning 236 miles through the southwestern region of Colorado. Following the Million Dollar Highway from Ouray to Silverton, the byway extends south alongside the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Durango. The route then veers west toward Mancos, leading travelers to Mesa Verde National Park, renowned for its rich collection of ancient ruins. The scenic drive continues north toward the ski destination of Telluride, crossing Lizard Head Pass before looping back to Ouray.

While the Million Dollar Highway is often recognized for its challenges, including potential hazards influenced by weather conditions, it remains a favored route for campers and semi-trucks alike. With attentive driving and adherence to traffic regulations, this scenic drive can be a rewarding experience that showcases the stunning beauty of Colorado’s mountainous landscape.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com