- U.S. Route 550 is known as Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway.
- According to reports, the road costs $1 million per mile and runs through the San Juan Mountains.
- Drivers will see small mountain towns and historic mines along the way.
Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway It’s only 25 miles long, but it is mighty. The narrow, two-lane highway, which connects the mountain towns of Ouray and Silverton, reportedly cost a million dollars a mile to build—and that was back in the early 1920s.
The high cost of the car becomes apparent as soon as you get on it. The road is directly cut into a steep cliff, and it runs over a deep gorge. On one side, sheer rock walls tower, and on the other, the canyon is unguarded.
The southbound route from Ouray leads to SilvertonIf you’re driving from Silverton north to Ouray, the road will hug the inside face of the cliff. The road is as awe-inspiring as it is perilous—it’s surrounded by impressive 14,000-foot peaks.
You’ll also pass Ironton, a ghost town known as a hot spot for moose sightings. And you’ll be able to see the remains of the historic Idarado Mine. The road will also take you past Ironton – a ghost city known as a hotspot for moose sightings – and the remains of historic Idarado Mine. Those who know where to look will find hidden hot springs, while the views of the mountains are endless.
The Million Dollar Highway can be used all year round, but there are times when it is closed to clear rockslides or avalanches. You’ll need tire chains if you want to travel during the winter season, which in the mountains can begin as soon as October.
The infamous highway is only a part of the larger San Juan Scenic BywayThe San Juan Scenic Byway, which runs 236 miles from Ouray to Silverton, is one of Colorado’s most scenic areas. After driving from Ouray up to Silverton on the Million Dollar Highway, the San Juan Scenic Byway then continues along the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad southward to the small town of Durango. The byway then heads west towards Mancos. Mesa Verde National ParkThe route continues north to the National Park, which is home to the largest collection of prehistoric ruins found in the U.S. the ski town of TellurideThe route loops back to Ouray after crossing Lizard Head Pass (10,222 feet).
The highway is a challenging route (and can be dangerous depending on the weather conditions). Campers and semi trucks use it frequently. The trip will be more enjoyable if you pay attention to traffic signs and directions, and stay aware of your surroundings.
