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    Million Dollar Highway

    4.8 (22 reviews)

    Million Dollar Highway Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Million Dollar Highway

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    Ironton town site
    Stephen P.

    Rightly considered one of the most scenic drives in Colorado. And though I'd be nervous driving it in super snowy conditions, it's no problem when the weather is clear. Great views, historic mining structures, and bookended by two of the best towns in Colorado. Although most designations of this route are only from Ouray to Silverton, it's very much worth also going a few miles south of Silverton to Molas Pass for some of the best wide open views in the area.

    View from Molas Pass
    Courtney K.

    Bottom Line: A scenic drive that is not nearly as scary the internet claims, at least not in decent weather in a sedan. My husband and I drove the Million Dollar Highway roundtrip from Durango to Ouray in early October and we really enjoyed the beautiful views including the stunning yellow leaves of the aspens and the snow covered peaks of the surrounding mountains. We stopped at Molas Pass and the Switzerland of America Lookout Point to take in the scenery. My husband and I debated if we should drive the Million Dollar Highway because we'd read many articles and watched many videos about how dangerous and scary it is. I drove, with my husband as the passenger, from Durango to Ouray and when we arrived in Ouray I earnestly asked, "What parts of that drive were supposed to be the scary?" I guess because I was focused on driving and not focused on looking over the edge or the hype of the dangers of the road I never noticed the scary parts. Of course I did this in a sedan, with some experience driving mountain switchbacks and in reasonably good weather. Since we made the trip on October 5 I was hoping for a snow-free experience but we did encounter some slushy roads near Red Mountain Pass (elevation 11,018) which admittedly I didn't love. Patience is important on the Million Dollar Highway. I decided to not try to estimate how long the drive would take because one you get stuck behind an RV, tractor trailer, scared driver, etc. or encounter some weather the pace slows down and you just have to be patient until, and if, you have the chance to safely pass. The only other drive I have to compare this to is the Road to Hana on Maui. I found Road to Hana to be much more intense than the Million Dollar Highway.

    Highway
    Michaella D.

    LOVE Million Dollar Highway! It's so pretty and scenic, year around. We been coming to Colorado for 30 years.

    Tracey B.

    Beyond breathtaking!!!! We came in October when the leaves are at full fall bloom with colors....just amazing! Stop off, take the pup out into the trails, and take lots of pictures!

    Incredible views! We stayed in Ouray and drove the million dollar highway multiple times. The road is well maintained, and well travelled. Be aware of the road conditions and drive accordingly. Watch for wildlife and site seeing tourists who aren't paying attention to the road!

    view from Bear Creek Falls, about 3mi into the drive leaving from Ouray
    Sullivan I.

    The 23-mile drive from Ouray to Silverton, CO features absolutely fabulous views on an incredibly nerve-racking road. It's completely worth it, though. My family goes on a lot of scenic drives and this was one of the best I've ever experienced, hands down. Lots of hairpin turns and fairly steep grades, plus big portions of it have no guard rail or shoulder between you and a drop-off. Takes about an hour if you're careful, which you absolutely should be since so much of the road is in shadow and therefore has a tendency to hold ice, but it's a stunning journey both directions. Keep an eye out for deer (possibly elk?) and abandoned mining equipment along the way. [visited 4/25/18]

    Dell L.

    This drive between Durango and Ouray is better than I expected. The scenery is fantastic. Allow time to stop for photos and just to breathe it all in.

    Brittany S.

    Having spent six months living in Switzerland, I ho-hummed at the thought of anything coming close to being half as beautiful as the real deal. However, it has been said that the "Switzerland of America"/Million Dollar Highway in southern Colorado is pretty darn close. Annnddd they were right. I've been "Swiss-sick" as I call it for the past two years since my time in Lugano. Yet, this beautiful stretch between Ouray and Durango had the ability to flutter my stubborn heart with its snow-capped mountains, valley "villages", abundant pine trees and serene winding roads. For an estimated 20 miles I was transported to Switzerland. Seriously. I even found one of my new favorite American towns along the way - Silverton, Colorado. I'd guesstimate that less than 1,000 people live in this western town tucked away in a valley along the Million Dollar Highway. If only I could add pictures directly into this review! Imagine the modern Dr.Seuss/Jim Carey version song: fa lo do ra me la te Welcome Christmas .lkldklfsf - forgive me, I can't remember the words, but the point is, this cheerful song would fit perfectly in this festive town during the month of December. Cute as a button, I tell ya. Do yourself a favor and leave plenty of time for stopping along the way for all those Kodak moments, hiking opportunities and picturesque waterfalls and streams.

    On the 550 drive.
    Sharon P.

    This California girl doesn't often drive the "scenic mountain roads" but I had an opportunity to do just that. As a passenger winding through the San Juan Skyway, I couldn't help but hold my breath several times, the beauty of the mountains was in fact breathtaking but equally so were the roads and rail-less curves that seem to meander forever. White knuckles at times for me, but as you approach Durango you can't help but ponder what you just experienced. Add this drive to your bucket list...it's tempting to stop and take pics but please, please use caution; some of the roads are very narrow, stopping just isn't safe. I don't ever recall seeing anything as beautiful as this Million Dollar Highway...just wish I had more time to stop in the little towns. About 2 hours if you drive straight through, more time of course if you stop for photo opps or visiting towns.

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    4 years ago

    Stunning views and amazing scenery. Was clenching my fists the whole way but the risks are worth it. Recommend fully.

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    Review Highlights - Million Dollar Highway

    I also need to mention that not only is Silverton, Colorado a quaint little town worthy of walking around.....

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    San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours - Up near Ophir Pass!!!

    San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours

    4.8(70 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    My family and I booked a half-day jeep tour to visit Yankee Boy Basin with San Juan Jeep Tours…read more Before my trip to Ouray, I reviewed a few of the local tour outfitters, but after reading all the great reviews about San Juan Jeep Tours and finding out that they have been in business the longest - I was sold on this outfitter being the one. We arrived at 8:45AM for our 9AM start time and filled out our waivers and were directed to Keith's vehicle (an extended bed pickup truck with 3 bench seat rows). Our group consisted of 11 people (adults and kids) and we all fit within the seating without issue. Keith gave us a brief overview of the trip and we were off... Keith is a fantastic guide and made sure to stop at various spots along the tour to lend historical insights plus to allow the tour group to take photographs. About halfway up to the Yankee Boy Basin, the skies finally opened on us (had been a gray, overcast sky all morning). But Keith and the San Juan Jeep Tour outfit was prepared! Keith doled out ponchos to all of the tour group, plus put a tarp over the open seating area in about 45 seconds flat!!! Luckily the rain stopped about 45 minutes later, and the tarp came off... to showcase the absolute beauty of Yankee Boy Basin! The return trip to Ouray (from the Basin) took about 45 minutes and we were back where we started just before 1PM. Again folks... I cannot recommend this tour outfitter enough! Plus, if you can get onto a tour with Keith - you will be in for a treat! And please, please tip your tour guide(s) appropriately!

    We had a blast with Keith yesterday exploring the Ouray mountains. He explained the history of the…read morelocal mines, provided insight into the topography of the area, and gave us a super fun day. We went from an elevation of 8000 all the way up to 12000. The wild flowers were still out so that was a bonus. His personality made the ride fun. The only thing we thought might be nice was seatbelts. It's a bumpy ride. A fun day!

    Photos
    San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours
    San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours
    San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours

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    Alpine Scenic 4X4 Tours - It was cold and rainy, but we loved every second of our tour!

    Alpine Scenic 4X4 Tours

    4.9(45 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    Breathtaking views, knowledgeable guides, unforgettable adventure!…read more We booked the Alpine Scenic 4x4 Tour of Imogene Pass not fully knowing what to expect--what we got was one of the most memorable experiences of our entire Colorado trip! From the moment we hopped into the rugged, well-maintained 4x4 vehicle, we knew we were in for something special. Our guide (shoutouts to Joe) was not only an expert driver navigating the steep and narrow trails with confidence, but also a wealth of local knowledge--sharing fascinating stories about the mining history, geology, and unique ecosystems along the route. The scenery is absolutely unreal. Towering peaks, waterfalls, wildflowers, and panoramic views around every corner. Reaching the summit of Imogene Pass (over 13,000 feet!) felt like standing on top of the world. Alpine Scenic Tours was professional, fun, and clearly passionate about preserving and sharing the beauty of the San Juans. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just looking to explore the high country without the stress of driving yourself, this tour is 100% worth it. Pro tip: Dress in layers--it gets chilly up top!

    Steve did a terrific job as our guide on the jeep tour through the San Juan Mountains! He was very…read morethorough providing us with the history of the minds, and pointing out various wildflowers, as well as wildlife during the drive. Steve is an excellent driver. We felt so safe with him as our driver. Highly recommend this tour for couples and families.

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    Alpine Scenic 4X4 Tours
    Alpine Scenic 4X4 Tours
    Alpine Scenic 4X4 Tours - San Juan mountains.

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    San Juan mountains.

    Box Canyon Waterfall and Park - View of the canyon sky from inside box canyon

    Box Canyon Waterfall and Park

    4.6(78 reviews)
    0.8 mi

    Truly magnificent. The lower trail is easy for all levels, it has stable footing and minimal…read moreelevation changes, yet still offers beautiful views of the creek, and waterfalls along steel walkways and short trail. There are also stairs to near bottom of the waterfall. The high bridge trail is much more challenging, although one can opt to only climb the stair portion for a better view of Ouray and a little cardio. At the top of the stairs there is a small shelter, if you're feeling the altitude at this point it's a good idea not to continue further, as the trail continues to climb and there are no stairs/structure. There is a cable above the trail in sections for stability, and cables below some sections for safety. I'd guess the top of the stairs is a little less than half way to the high bridge. The bridge is a very sturdy structure, over a steep narrow gorge, the views of Box Cañon, the creek, waterfall, and town below are breathtaking. There is a hallway-like tunnel on the far side of the bridge, which is part of the perimeter trail. It's low in some spots but walkable, and offers some shade and cooling after the climb. The trail was drub when we went, it would be significantly more challenging/difficult with any moisture or icy conditions.

    I had an awesome time visiting box canyon waterfall while in Ouray! I came with my husband and…read moretoddler children. They absolutely loved it! Great for all ages. The waterfall was a lot bigger than I thought it would be. It was super loud inside of the canon which made it all the more exciting. Check out both the lower and upper box canon falls trails. The lower falls trail gets very close to the waterfall, we were getting wet from the spray we were so close. The upper trail has a great view of Ouray and a fun bridge to cross that leads into a tunnel. It is $7 for each adult, but super seniors, military, and children under 4 are free! No dogs allowed in the park. I don't think the dogs would want to come anyway with the metal bridges and aggressively loud waterfall. If you are in Ouray in the summertime this needs to be on your itinerary!

    Photos
    Box Canyon Waterfall and Park - Bridge to tunnel

    Bridge to tunnel

    Box Canyon Waterfall and Park
    Box Canyon Waterfall and Park

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    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Museum lobby

    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

    4.6(17 reviews)
    60.7 mi

    Simply amazing. I would stop by the visitor center and museum first before exploring the pueblos…read moreand other locations that make up this national monument. The visitor center and museum have a lot of artifacts and information about how scientists research the artifacts and structures of the Pueblo peoples. It helps put into context the other sites that are part of this national monument. It kind of made me feel like an archaeologist when I identified some potsherds later on my hikes and could identify which Pueblo Era they came from. Definitely worth a stop!

    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and Visitor Center are a worthwhile destination or a…read moreshort diversion, if you are in SW Colorado. Inside, there are educational movies about the history of the Puebloan Indians who inhabited the plains 1200 years ago, and then suddenly left about 1300. There are numerous exhibits about these people, their tools, their cooking implements, their arrow heads, basketry, housing, etc. It is well laid out and then there are descriptions of several deserted Pueblos within an hour or two of the visitor center. Your national park pass will get you entrance, or a small fee if you don't have one. With the Federal workforce cuts, staffing is minimal, so be patient and respect the work these Rangers do for us every day. Wish I had visited this site before I went to Mesa Verde National Park last year as it added an additional perspective to the way some of our SW native Indians lived.

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    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Exhibits

    Exhibits

    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Exhibit- life sized

    Exhibit- life sized

    Canyons of the Ancients National Monument - Cooking Pottery exhibit

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    Cooking Pottery exhibit

    Million Dollar Highway - landmarks - Updated May 2026

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