Overview

Hype:

The Million Dollar Highway, a stretch of U.S. Highway 550 in southwestern Colorado, is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery and hair-raising driving experience. Winding through the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this iconic route connects the historic towns of Ouray and Silverton. Known for its steep cliffs, tight switchbacks, and lack of guardrails, the highway offers unparalleled views of rugged peaks, deep canyons, and alpine forests. Highlights along the way include the Uncompahgre Gorge, Red Mountain Pass, and remnants of the area's rich mining history. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply awe-inspiring vistas, the Million Dollar Highway promises an unforgettable journey.

Time: 1-2 hours

Length: 22.6 miles one way

Fees: None

Recommended Ages:

	0-3
	4-11
	12-19
	20-49
	50-69
	70+

Recommended Months to Visit:

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Maps

Closest City or Region: Ouray, CO to Silverton, CO

Coordinates: 37.805686, -107.671418

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Brochure

October 17, 2024 Trip Report

By Jeremy Dye

Trip Members

Jeremy Dye, Tara Dye, Savannah Dye, Madilyn Dye, Cooper Dye, Greg Dye, Laura Dye, Anthony Dye, Arianne Dye, Miller Dye, Kingston Dye, Ondylyn Wagner, Jaren Wagner, Killian Wagner, Calliope Wagner,

Story

Thursday looked like it would be the best weather, so we decided to drive up the million dollar highway to Silverton. The drive was super pretty and we stopped and took lots of pictures of the waterfall and all the old mining ruins along the way. 

We met up with everyone else at the San Juan county historical museum and the San Juan county historical society mining heritage center. The museum was huge and had tons of awesome stuff inside. We really enjoyed it. We finished up around lunch time.

There weren't a lot of great places to have lunch and it was kind of cold and drizzly so we went over to the railroad park because it looked like they had a pavilion there. We made lunch then did some window shopping along Main Street.

On the drive back to Ouray, our vehicle stopped at the Ironton townsite on the way, where we explored several old buildings. 

We also stopped at the Bear Creek Falls overlook and were amazed at the view from the platform. 

Pictures