San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway And The Million Dollar Highway
Introduction
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a breathtaking drive through the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, USA. It is a 233-mile loop that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country. The Million Dollar Highway is a part of this byway, which is a two-lane road that runs for 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray. The highway is known for its hairpin turns, steep cliffs, and gorgeous views of the mountains.
The History of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway was designated as a National Scenic Byway in 1987. The byway takes you through some of the most historic and scenic areas of southwestern Colorado. The route was once used by the Ute Indians and later by Spanish explorers, miners, and traders. Today, the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a popular tourist destination that takes visitors through charming mountain towns, national forests, and historic mining sites.
The Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a section of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway that runs from Silverton to Ouray. The highway got its name because of the cost to build it in the late 1800s. The highway is known for its steep cliffs, narrow lanes, and sharp turns. It is not recommended for large vehicles or those who are afraid of heights. However, the views from the highway are unmatched, and it is a must-see for anyone visiting southwestern Colorado.
Silverton
Silverton is a former mining town that is now a popular tourist destination. The town is located at an elevation of 9,318 feet and is surrounded by majestic mountains. Silverton is known for its Victorian architecture, historic buildings, and charming downtown area. Visitors can take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which is a historic steam train that takes you through the mountains.
Ouray
Ouray is a charming mountain town that is known as the "Switzerland of America." The town is surrounded by towering mountains and has a quaint downtown area with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Ouray is also known for its hot springs, which are a great way to relax after a day of exploring the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway.
Telluride
Telluride is a former mining town that is now a popular ski resort. The town is located at an elevation of 8,750 feet and is surrounded by stunning mountains. Telluride is known for its Victorian architecture, historic buildings, and world-class skiing. Visitors can take a ride on the free gondola, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the town.
Durango
Durango is a charming town that is located at the southern end of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway. The town is known for its historic downtown area, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which is a historic steam train that takes you through the mountains. Durango is also a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and rafting.
Things to Do
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Some of the popular things to do include:
- Scenic drives
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Rock climbing
- Hot springs
- Historic sites
- Skiing
Conclusion
The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway are a must-see for anyone visiting southwestern Colorado. The byway takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country and offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, historic sites, or simply a scenic drive, the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway has something for everyone.