Planning a drive on Colorado’s famous Million Dollar Highway? You’re probably wondering exactly where this beautiful mountain road starts and ends. I get it. The name gets tossed around a lot, but nobody seems to give you the actual starting and ending points.
I’ve driven this route multiple times and talked with locals who know every curve. This blog breaks down the exact towns that mark each end of Highway 550’s most scenic stretch. You’ll learn the total mileage, what to expect along the way, and why people can’t stop talking about this road.
Why does this matter? Knowing the precise route helps you plan better. You’ll budget the right amount of time, book hotels in the correct towns, and avoid that awkward moment when you’ve already passed the “official” section. Let’s clear up the confusion.
Where Does the Million Dollar Highway Start and End?
I’ve driven this route more times than I can count. You’ll find the Million Dollar Highway runs between two historic Colorado mountain towns, each with its own character and elevation.
Starting Point: Ouray, Colorado (“The Switzerland of America”)
Ouray sits tucked into a box canyon at around 7,700 to 8,000 feet. The San Juan Mountains tower over you on all sides. It’s dramatic.
This is your northern gateway. From here, the road climbs through switchbacks toward Red Mountain Pass. You’ll pass hot springs, a charming downtown, and the famous Ouray Ice Park before the real climbing begins.
Ending Point: Silverton, Colorado
Silverton waits at the other end, perched at 9,318 feet above sea level. That’s over a thousand feet higher than where you started. The town fills a high mountain valley surrounded by peaks.
This southern terminus was once a booming mining town. Now it’s an outdoor activity hub. You’ll see:
- 19th-century Victorian buildings
- Snowmobile and ATV trails
- Backcountry skiing access
- Historic hotels and saloons
Many drivers don’t stop here. They continue south on U.S. 550 toward Durango, turning the trip into something bigger.
Extended Route: Part of the San Juan Skyway
The Million Dollar Highway is just one section of a much larger loop. The full San Juan Skyway stretches 232 miles through southwestern Colorado.
This scenic byway connects six mountain towns: Ouray, Silverton, Durango, Cortez, Telluride, and Ridgway. You’ll cross multiple mountain passes and see mining history everywhere you look. The full loop takes most people two to three days if you want to actually enjoy it.
Route Overview and Key Details
The Million Dollar Highway packs a lot into a short stretch of road. I’m talking about 25 miles that feel like you’ve crossed an entire mountain range. Let me break down what you’re actually dealing with.
Distance and Duration
The drive between Ouray and Silverton covers roughly 25 miles. Most GPS systems will tell you it takes 45 minutes to an hour. That’s if you don’t stop.
But you will stop. Everyone does. The views demand it. I’ve watched people turn this into a 2+ hour journey with all the photo stops, pullouts, and moments where you just need to take it all in. Plan accordingly.
Elevation Profile
You’ll climb to 11,018 feet at Red Mountain Pass. That’s the highest point on this section. The air gets thinner. Your engine might work harder.
Here’s what else you’ll encounter nearby:
- Coal Bank Pass is 10,640 feet
- Molas Pass is 10,970 feet
- Temperature drops as you climb
- Snow is possible any month of the year
These elevations mean cooler weather even in summer. I’ve seen frost in July up here. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, with wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, and snow-covered peaks most of the year.
Terrain and Driving Conditions
This isn’t your typical highway. The road is narrow. Really narrow. You’ll navigate hairpin turns and switchbacks carved into cliffsides.
The drop-offs are steep, and guardrails are rare. Some sections have none at all. It’s thrilling and nerve-wracking at the same time. But those exposed edges also give you unobstructed views of the gorges and peaks below. That’s the trade-off.
The Scenic Highlights Along the Route
You’ll find drama at every turn. The road climbs through scenery that changes by the mile. I’ve watched travelers pull over dozens of times just to take it all in.
Red Mountain Pass
This is the heart of the drive. At 11,018 feet, Red Mountain Pass commands your attention. The slopes glow rust-red from iron oxide.
- Historic mine ruins cling to impossible cliffsides
- San Juan peaks stretch in every direction
- The grade hits 8% with sharp curves
The switchbacks test your focus. But the views? Worth every white-knuckled moment.
Uncompahgre Gorge and Bear Creek Falls
Just outside Ouray, the earth opens up. The Uncompahgre Gorge cuts deep and is narrow. Bear Creek Falls drops 205 feet right beneath the highway bridge.
- You can park and walk to the viewing platform
- The roar of water fills the air
- Mist catches the light on sunny days
It’s one of those stops you don’t plan but never forget.
Historic Mining Towns and Ghost Sites
Silver brought thousands here in the 1880s. Now silence rules these slopes. Guston, Red Mountain Town, and Ironton once buzzed with life.
- All were once filled with miners and merchants
- Today, you’ll find weathered wood and rusted metal
- Animas Forks near Silverton is the best-preserved ghost town
Walk through 19th-century buildings that survived over 140 winters. History feels close here.
Crystal Lake and Ironton Park
These alpine spots offer quiet beauty. Crystal Lake mirrors the peaks above it. Ironton Park spreads wide and green between mountains.
- Early morning brings elk and sometimes moose
- Photographers love the reflected light at sunset
- Perfect spots when you need a break from the road
I recommend stopping here. The peace resets you.
History of the Million Dollar Highway
Otto Mears built the original road in the 1880s. He needed a way to move ore down the mountain. Gold and silver mines were booming. Wagons paid tolls to use his narrow dirt path.
The 1920s brought major changes:
- The road got paved and widened for automobiles
- It became part of U.S. Highway 550
- Engineers blasted through rock that wagons once circled around
Now here’s where it gets interesting. Nobody knows for sure how the highway got its name. You’ll hear four different stories. Each one makes sense.
Some say it costs a million dollars per mile to build. Others claim the fill dirt contains a million dollars’ worth of gold ore mixed in. The prettiest theory? The million-dollar views earned the name.
Must-See Stops and Attractions Nearby
The highway connects you to three mountain towns worth visiting. Each one offers something different. I always plan extra days to visit them:
- Ouray highlights: Visit Box Cañon Falls, soak in Ouray Hot Springs, or try the Via Ferrata, known for climbing, hiking, and winter ice climbing
- Silverton attractions: Stroll the National Historic Landmark district, ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, or take Jeep tours into the Alpine Loop
- Durango base: The largest nearby town features a historic downtown, dining options, and river recreation, often the start or end point for the full San Juan Skyway loop
Safety and Driving Tips
This road demands respect. I’ve seen confident drivers turn cautious within the first few miles. You need to prepare before you go:
- Winter conditions: The highway stays open year-round, but it brings snow, ice, and avalanches from October to April. Summer (June-October) offers the safest conditions.
- Driving guidelines: Slow down to 10-15 MPH on sharp curves, use pull-outs for passing, and always check Colorado DOT conditions before you leave
- Vehicle considerations: Passenger cars, RVs, and trailers can make the drive, but larger vehicles need extra caution on the 8% grades and tight switchbacks
Conclusion
So, where does the Million Dollar Highway start and end? Now you know it runs from Silverton to Ouray, covering 25 miles of unforgettable mountain scenery. You’ve got the exact route, the key landmarks, and what makes this stretch so special.
You’re ready to plan your drive with confidence. No more confusion about which part is the “real” Million Dollar Highway. You know where to start, where to finish, and what to watch for along the way.
Got questions or tips from your own drive? Drop a comment below. I’d love to hear about your experience on this incredible road. And if you found this helpful, share it with anyone planning a Colorado road trip. Safe travels out there.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Million Dollar Highway start and end?
The Million Dollar Highway runs from Silverton to Ouray in Colorado, covering approximately 25 miles along U.S. Highway 550. Some people extend it to include Durango, but the official scenic stretch connects these two historic mining towns through the San Juan Mountains.
How long does it take to drive the Million Dollar Highway?
The drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour without stops. However, most people spend 2-3 hours because the views are incredible and there are several pullouts worth stopping at. Plan extra time for photos and enjoying the scenery.
Why is it called the Million Dollar Highway?
There are several theories. Some say it cost a million dollars per mile to build in the 1920s. Others claim the roadbed contains a million dollars’ worth of gold ore. The most likely explanation is the spectacular million-dollar views along the route.
Is the Million Dollar Highway dangerous to drive?
The highway has narrow sections, sharp curves, and steep drop-offs without guardrails. It’s not dangerous if you drive carefully and stay alert. Avoid driving in bad weather, especially snow or ice. Take your time and you’ll be fine.
What’s the best time to drive the Million Dollar Highway?
Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best conditions. Summer provides clear weather and full access. Fall brings beautiful aspen colors. The road can close in winter due to snow and avalanche danger.
