You'll see some once-in-a-lifetime
mountain views, but driving the 
Million Dollar Highway isn't for the faint of
heart. It's steep, winding and there are often no guardrails to protect you
from an immediate drop-off. Add a few wide RVs traveling this road, and it makes
for a pretty exciting drive through the San Juan Mountains.
There are several mountain passes along
the route, usually allowing you to pull off the road for a rest stop. Each of
them will provide you with views of spectacular mountain peaks, lakes and
forest wilderness. As you take your drive, you’ll also be able to see the old
abandoned Longfellow Mine and the Idarado Mine. And as if that wasn't enough to
catch your interest, you should visit the quaint Victorian-era mining towns of
Silverton and Ouray.
In Ouray, you can take a jeep tour
through the mountains or enjoy a relaxing soak in the local hotsprings.
Stopping in Silverton would give you a chance to see the
"narrow-gauge" steam train railway that connects Silverton with
Durango. Silverton, as the name suggests, built its reputation on the mining of
silver, and like Ouray, the town also has lots of opportunities for hiking or
jeep treks. Maybe you fancy your chances with a spot of gold-panning at Ouray?
The town was established because of its gold mines, and the second largest gold
mine in Colorado, Camp Bird Mine, is still in operation today!
We can help you get the best guided
tours of the local mines, or arrange for a jeep rental if you want to
experience the fun of going off-road on your own.
Quick Facts:
-- The Million Dollar Highway is just
the nickname used for a portion of US Route 550, which actually starts down in
New Mexico.
-- ‘True Grit’, a well-known western
movie from 1968, was filmed partly in Ouray.
