What is the best time of year to drive the Million Dollar Highway?
What is the best time of year to drive the Million Dollar Highway? Summer is a great time to do the San Juan Skyway road trip because the weather is typically sunny and warm. However, with the leaves turning yellow, a fall road trip through Colorado would also be a perfect time to do this drive.
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.
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!