This is a very drive-able route for experienced RV drivers
. Though the entire stretch has been called the Million Dollar Highway, it is really the twelve miles south of Ouray through the Uncompahgre Gorge to the summit of Red Mountain Pass which gains the highway its name and reputation.
Which way do you drive a Million Dollar Highway?
You have two options when driving the Million Dollar Highway loop.
South to North or North to South
. If you’re taking the North to Southern route, you’ll more than likely start in Montrose or Ridgway and end somewhere along the way, like in Durango. For us, we took the Million Dollar Highway North to South.
Should I drive the Million Dollar Highway?
The Million Dollar Highway and San Juan Skyway road trip is
a must-do if you want to travel through the Rockies of Colorado
. It takes you through most of Colorado’s San Juans, a rugged and remote section of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Where is the million mile highway?
The Million Dollar Highway stretches for about 25 miles (40 km) in
western Colorado
and follows the route of U.S. 550 between Silverton and Ouray. It is part of the San Juan Skyway.
Where does the Million Dollar Highway start and end?
Highway 550 runs from northern New Mexico all the way up to southern Colorado. But the section from
Silverton, Colorado, to Ouray, Colorado
— the section high in the mountains — has been dubbed the Million Dollar Highway.
Are trucks allowed on the Million Dollar Highway?
Vehicle Restrictions – The Million Dollar Highway (US 550) is a well maintained, paved asphalt road. Therefore,
most passenger vehicles can traverse the pass
. 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended and motorists should travel with chains or snow tires.
How long is the Million Dollar Highway?
The official length of the Million Dollar Highway is
25 miles between Ouray and Silverton
, which cross Red Mountain Pass. However, it’s often touted at 70 miles, including the full trip south to Durango.
Why is Highway 550 called the Million Dollar Highway?
The Million Dollar Highway is the portion of U.S. 550 that goes from Ouray to Silverton, so called because
it cost a million dollars to build all the way back in the 1880s when Otto Mears, Colorado’s pioneer road-builder, built it as a toll road
.
Why is Red Mountain Pass called the Million Dollar Highway?
The canyon-clinging stretch of spectacular roadway between Silverton, Durango and Ouray is called “The Million Dollar Highway” either
because it cost so much to build, the amount of gold ore that remained in the roadway’s fill or the figurative price for those amazing San Juan Mountain views
.
Why are there no guard rails on the Million Dollar Highway?
When drivers enter the Uncompahgre Gorge on the north side of Red Mountain Pass on U.S. Highway 550 near Ouray, there is danger above with falling rocks and ice, and the road narrows with no guardrails or shoulder in some sections
to help keep vehicles from plunging 1,000 feet over the side of the road
.
Is Highway 550 open between Durango and Silverton?
Highway 550 North from Durango is
closed less often
. Closures are relatively infrequent on both passes however. For road closure information by telephone, please call (303) 639-1111 from Denver or out-of-state. For inquiries from within Colorado but outside the Denver area, please call toll free 1 (877) 315-7623.
How scary is Red Mountain Pass?
Those few who are daring enough to venture on this treacherous and daunting road will experience some of the most stunning views in the entire country. The narrow road is in fact very steep in various places and without any guardrails and other protection at some points, making it
very dangerous to travel on
.
What is the best part of the Million Dollar Highway?
South of Ouray
This deep, steep canyon is one of our favorite points on the Million Dollar Highway. Wind through switchbacks and marvel at the sharp cliffs and river forging below. The rugged peaks here are beyond description; you’ll want your camera handy.
How much did it cost to build the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado?
The Million Dollar Highway was originally built as a narrow wagon road in 1882 by two men, Otto Mears and Fred Walsen. This road cost approximately
$10,000 per square mile
at the time. That’s approximately $250,000 adjusted for inflation.
What is the speed limit on the Million Dollar Highway?
Though this stretch of road is only 25 miles, it takes about 45 minutes to drive in dry conditions, if you stick to the posted speed limit of
25 mph
(and 10 mph around many of the hairpin curves) and don’t make any stops.
What is the highest elevation on the Million Dollar Highway?
Red Mountain Pass is the highest point, at a shade over
11,000 feet
, on the Million Dollar Highway. Views are terrific along the entire stretch.
Is the road from Ouray to Silverton open?
Road open: noon-1 p.m.
What state is Wolf Creek Pass in?
| Wolf Creek Pass | Elevation 10,857 ft (3,309 m) | Traversed by US 160 | Location Mineral County, Colorado , United States | Range San Juan Mountains |
|---|
What state is Red Mountain Pass in?
| Red Mountain Pass | Location Ouray / San Juan counties, Colorado , U.S. | Range San Juan Mountains | Coordinates 37°53′56′′N 107°42′43′′WCoordinates: 37°53′56′′N 107°42′43′′W |
|---|
What is the scariest Mountain Pass in Colorado?
Red Mountain Pass
is notoriously tough to drive during the winter and features tricky 8 % grade sections. Named after the price some say it’d take them to willingly drive it, the Million Dollar Highway often tops lists for most dangerous drives in the world.
Is US 550 Open in Colorado?
SOUTHWEST CDOT UPDATE:
US 550 Red Mountain Pass is now open
. Avalanche control operations have been completed.
What is the highest pass in Colorado?
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
– 14,130 ft (Asphalt) Clear Creek Co. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in Colorado, the United States, and the entire of North America. It stretches for 28 miles and reaches a dizzying height of 14,130 ft.
