Is the Million Dollar Highway worth it?

Is the Million Dollar Highway worth it? Everyone has different preferences, of course, but we'd highly recommend driving the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado if you get the chance. The 25-mile stretch of highway between Silverton and Ouray is one of the most gorgeous drives in the United States and features plenty of places to stop along the way.

What is the steepest grade on the Million Dollar Highway?

The pass is traversed by the Million Dollar Highway, U.S. Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton, which is part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway. The pass is known for being treacherous in the wintertime due to the steep 8% grade and switchbacks on the north side facing Ouray, though the entire road is paved.

What stops to make on the Million Dollar Highway?

Regardless where you start and stop, you can explore mining ghost towns, go camping, hiking, biking and fishing in San Juan National Forest and much more along the way. There are three main towns that make great stopping points when your driving the Million Dollar highway – Ouray, Silverton and Durango.

Why do they call it 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.

How long does it take to ride the Million Dollar Highway?

Driving time, with no stops, is around 45 minutes. Note that there are no pit stops along Million Dollar Highway: no gas stations, no restrooms, no services. There are, however, fantastic views. Along this stretch of highway, you'll travel over Uncompahgre Gorge and across Red Mountain Pass.

Is Million Dollar Highway hard to drive?

Driving the Million Dollar Highway is no easy task for the uninitiated. Despite being paved, this dizzying highway is carved from the sides of steep mountains and has zero guardrails. The biggest challenge for the driver? Focusing on the road when there's so much beauty around you!

What is the hardest highway to drive on?

What is the scariest road to drive on in America?

The Tail of the Dragon, which begins at the Deals Gap on the Tennessee/North Carolina state line, is a remote, long, twisting road with 318 curves, 11 bridges, and few guardrails. It begins in North Carolina at the intersection of Highways 28 and 129 and ends at the Tabcat Creek Bridge in Tennessee.