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The Million Dollar Highway offers a breathtaking 70-mile journey through the heart of the San Juan Mountains. This well-marked route connects the historic towns of Ouray and Durango, providing stunning vistas whether you’re driving north or south. It’s the perfect drive for anyone eager to explore Colorado’s rugged terrain and rich history without straying far from comfort.
Start your journey in Ouray or Durango, then follow the highway past dramatic landscapes like Red Mountain Pass, Engineer Pass, and Coal Bank Pass, where alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and towering peaks provide unforgettable views. Each section of the highway reveals the area’s mining history, with old mines and ghost towns visible along the route.
Along the way, scenic overlooks offer plenty of opportunities to stop, take in the views, and capture the rugged cliffs and expansive vistas. Whether traveling from Ouray to Durango or vice versa, the Million Dollar Highway delivers a memorable experience for both history enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Exploring the Million Dollar Highway is simple, whether you’re starting from Ouray or Durango. The highway, known as U.S. Highway 550, connects both towns and offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. The route is well-marked and easily accessible, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Getting started is easy—whether you’re coming from Ouray or Durango, both towns offer direct access to the highway, making your scenic drive effortless and rewarding from the moment you start.
Durango, Colorado
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is about 15 miles south of Durango. The drive to the start of the Million Dollar Highway takes around 30 minutes, providing quick access to this scenic route.
Montrose, Colorado
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is about 37 miles from Ouray. The drive to Ouray takes approximately 1 hour, offering spectacular mountain views along the way.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is about 40 miles from Ouray. The drive takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, with scenic mountain vistas as you make your way to the Million Dollar Highway.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is about 40 miles from Ouray. The drive takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, with scenic mountain vistas as you make your way to the Million Dollar Highway.
Million Dollar Highway, located in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, is easily accessible via major highways. From Durango, take U.S. Highway 550 north to connect with the scenic route leading through the heart of the mountains. From Ouray, the highway heads south, offering dramatic views as it winds through the rugged terrain. U.S. Highway 160 and Highway 84 provide alternative access points to the highway, allowing travelers from surrounding areas like Cortez or Silverton to easily reach the start of the Million Dollar Highway. The drive from these routes takes less than an hour, making it an accessible and breathtaking journey.
Traveling along the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Durango is free and open to the public. There are no tolls or entrance fees required to drive this scenic route on U.S. Highway 550. The highway provides stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and is accessible year-round for all visitors.
If you plan to explore additional scenic routes or Colorado’s national forests, consider purchasing a Colorado State Parks Annual Pass. This pass offers access to all Colorado State Parks and recreational areas, which may be beneficial for travelers wanting to visit more parks during their trip.
Passes for Colorado residents are available at a reduced rate, and seniors, active military members, and veterans may be eligible for additional discounts at participating parks.
Family-Friendly
Children under 16 years old typically have free access to public lands and parks along the route, making it a great option for family road trips.
Camping
The Million Dollar Highway features a mix of campgrounds, including several first-come, first-served sites and a few that accept reservations. Popular options include Molas Lake Campground near Silverton and Amphitheater Campground in Ouray. These spots fill quickly during summer weekends from June through September, so early arrival or advance booking is recommended when possible.
Most campgrounds offer basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, but water access may be limited, so be sure to bring your own supply. At higher elevations, some sites may operate with reduced services or seasonal closures due to snow. Be prepared for cooler nights even in summer, and always check conditions before heading out.
Hotels
The Million Dollar Highway winds through scenic mountain towns like Ouray, Silverton, and Durango, each offering a unique range of lodging options. You’ll find everything from rustic cabins and cozy inns to upscale historic hotels and modern mountain lodges. Rates start under $100 for basic motels and climb into the higher range for luxury stays, especially during peak summer and fall foliage seasons.
Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” is great for hot springs resorts and charming B&Bs. Silverton caters more to adventurous travelers, with off-grid cabins and vintage-style stays. Durango offers the broadest selection, including well-known chains, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. Whether you’re after rugged charm or refined comfort, there’s a perfect base along the highway for every style and budget.
The optimal times to visit the Million Dollar Highway are during late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to early October), when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most dramatic. In spring, the snow-capped San Juan Mountains create a postcard-perfect view, while fall showcases a stunning display of golden aspens and vibrant foliage.
Summer (July to August) offers warm temperatures and fully accessible mountain passes, making it popular for road trips. However, visitor numbers peak during this season, particularly on weekends, which can lead to crowded viewpoints and slow traffic on the winding roads.
Winter (November to April), though visually striking with snow-draped landscapes, poses driving challenges. Snowfall and icy conditions often make sections of the highway, especially Red Mountain Pass, dangerous or impassable. Travelers are advised to check road reports and weather forecasts if visiting during this time.
The Million Dollar Highway, a breathtaking stretch of U.S. Route 550, winds through Colorado’s dramatic San Juan Mountains between Ouray and Durango. This 132-mile route (round trip) is famed for its jaw-dropping cliffside drops, hairpin turns, and sweeping alpine views. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic mining towns, cascading waterfalls, and some of the most scenic overlooks in the Rockies.
Plan to spend four to seven hours completing the drive, depending on how often you stop to take in the views, snap photos, or explore the charming towns and hiking trails along the route. If you’re a fan of leisurely exploration, give yourself extra time to soak in each viewpoint or pause at local landmarks like Bear Creek Falls or Molas Pass.
Alternatively, bring along a picnic and enjoy your meal with a mountain backdrop, or simply roll down the windows and savor the fresh alpine air. Whether you’re chasing golden aspens in the fall or gliding past snow-capped peaks in spring, this route delivers a perfect balance of thrill and tranquility.
To avoid crowds along the Million Dollar Highway, plan your visit on weekdays and steer clear of holiday weekends when the route sees an influx of tourists from nearby towns and states. Starting your drive early in the morning—before 9 a.m.—can help you enjoy the winding roads and scenic pullouts with fewer vehicles around. Evenings, especially during peak seasons, tend to bring slower traffic as more travelers stop to catch the sunset views.
The busiest times are late spring and summer, particularly June through August, when the weather is ideal and all mountain passes are open. Fall foliage season, typically from mid-September to early October, also draws large crowds. If you prefer solitude, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons in early spring or late fall, keeping an eye on weather forecasts. For those wanting a quieter experience, explore side roads, lesser-known viewpoints, or nearby hiking trails off the main highway.
Red Mountain Pass
Red Mountain Pass, sitting at over 11,000 feet, is one of the most iconic and thrilling sections of the Million Dollar Highway. Named after the iron-rich peaks that glow crimson, this stretch offers dramatic views of jagged cliffs, deep gorges, and remnants of historic mining operations. The sharp curves and steep drop-offs demand cautious driving, but the scenery makes every twist worth it. In spring and summer, wildflowers blanket the mountainsides, creating a stunning contrast with the rust-colored peaks.
Box Canyon Falls
Just a short detour from Ouray, Box Canyon Falls is a hidden gem where rushing mountain water cascades through a narrow granite gorge. A network of trails and viewing platforms lets you experience the falls up close, with the roar of the water echoing dramatically through the canyon. For geology buffs, the towering rock walls and rushing waters provide a glimpse into the power that carved this canyon. It’s a must-see stop, perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the natural spectacle.
The Million Dollar Highway offers a prime chance to spot wildlife in their natural alpine and forested habitats. Keep an eye out for elk, mule deer, marmots, and even mountain goats navigating the rugged terrain. Early mornings and evenings are the best times for sightings, especially in quieter stretches of the drive. Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid feeding them—your quiet presence is key to preserving this incredible ecosystem.
This route is packed with jaw-dropping overlooks that offer sweeping views of jagged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and winding canyons. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just snapping shots on your phone, the landscape provides endless inspiration. Pull over at designated viewpoints like Bear Creek Falls, Red Mountain Pass, and Molas Pass to capture the changing light, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant wildflowers. Always park safely off the road before hopping out to take in the views.
Driving the Million Dollar Highway during sunrise or sunset is a truly unforgettable experience. As golden light spills across the San Juan Mountains, the peaks, forests, and canyons come alive with vivid color and depth. These magical hours offer stunning photography opportunities and a peaceful, almost meditative drive. Early mornings bring a calm atmosphere with fewer vehicles and the soft glow of dawn, while evenings bathe the red cliffs and alpine ridges in warm tones, creating a picture-perfect end to the day. Whether you’re chasing the light or simply soaking in the serenity, this is one of the best times to explore this spectacular route.
Extra Layers: Weather can shift dramatically across elevations on the Million Dollar Highway. Be prepared for wind, sun, rain, and even sudden snow at higher passes—regardless of the season. A fleece or insulated jacket, along with breathable layers, will help you stay comfortable throughout your drive and hikes.
Footwear: If you plan to explore scenic viewpoints or nearby trails, wear sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. Avoid open-toed shoes, as rocky terrain and alpine vegetation can be rough on exposed feet.
Daypack: Even on a driving tour, a small daypack is useful. Bring water, snacks, a map, and essentials in case you decide to explore a viewpoint or short trail along the way.
Portable Phone Charger and Cable: If you’re taking pictures with your phone, running out of batteries may result in missed opportunities. A DC car charger is best, so that you can charge your phone while driving.
First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and motion sickness tablets. The winding roads can be tough on the stomach, especially for passengers. If you’re allergic to bee stings, pack an EpiPen just in case.
Water Bottles: While you’re mostly in your vehicle, dehydration can sneak up at altitude. Bring at least one liter of water per person and refill whenever you can. Electrolyte tabs can help you stay hydrated, especially when hiking or walking at higher elevations.
Hiking Poles: Planning to hike around scenic spots like Ice Lake Trail or Engineer Pass? Lightweight trekking poles help with balance on steep or uneven terrain.
Headlamp: If you’re out past sunset or exploring a trail near dusk, a compact headlamp can come in handy, especially during fall or winter when daylight is limited.
Sun Protection: At higher elevations, the sun is intense—even on cloudy days. Pack sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, and a hat with a brim.
Plastic Bag: Keep one handy to collect your own trash—or any you spot on the trail or pullouts. Help preserve this stunning stretch of Colorado wilderness for fellow travelers.