Million Dollar Highway, Silverton: Address, Million Dollar Highway Reviews: 5/5
Million Dollar Highway
Million Dollar Highway
5
About
A six mile section of the San Juan Skyway with incredible views.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
727 reviews
Excellent
646
Very good
50
Average
20
Poor
6
Terrible
6
RichSGF
Springfield, MO311 contributions
Couples
If you ever get a chance to drive down the million dollar highway I highly recommend it exceptionally scenic with multiple turn outs some beautiful waterfalls some near in some further away from the road
One of my favorite spots to photograph is Crystal Lake which is about 15 minutes south of Ouray. Look for a red stone abandon building on your left if you’re heading south from Ouray. Across from there you’ll see a metal gate and a road that leads to the lake go to the middle or at the very end of the road and look back towards the mountains, sunrise is quite spectacular.
If you just look where most of the people pulled over you’ll get the general idea where you need to get out and walk but there are some hidden gems that you really have to be paying attention and be quick to spot
We can thank Otto Mears for building this incredible road and Chief Ouray for letting him do it!
One of my favorite spots to photograph is Crystal Lake which is about 15 minutes south of Ouray. Look for a red stone abandon building on your left if you’re heading south from Ouray. Across from there you’ll see a metal gate and a road that leads to the lake go to the middle or at the very end of the road and look back towards the mountains, sunrise is quite spectacular.
If you just look where most of the people pulled over you’ll get the general idea where you need to get out and walk but there are some hidden gems that you really have to be paying attention and be quick to spot
We can thank Otto Mears for building this incredible road and Chief Ouray for letting him do it!
Written July 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CPG3
Woodburn, OR120 contributions
Couples
We left the city of Grand Junction, on our way to Farmington, New Mexico. As we drove south, the stunningly beautiful San Juan Mountains loomed in front of us. As we entered them, the vistas were so beautiful that we just had to stop for pictures. eventually we reached the town of Ouray, which is a restored mountain village set between towering snow capped peaks. The town and its surroundings are breathtakingly beautiful. From Ouray to Silver City is a slow drive, but around every corner are more and more vistas that make it difficult not stop on every corner to drink in the beauty. If you are in South Western Colorado, don't miss this drive. It was awesome.
Written May 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Greenvilledan
Greenville, TX1,460 contributions
Couples
Wonderful drive, incredible scenery, but allow for extra time if you have to be somewhere on time.
The only problem was getting behind a slow driver ( the speed limits are already slow). It is very difficult to pass anyone.
We got caught behind people driving under the speed limits. There would be 10-12 cars creeping behind a slow driver.
The views were unbelievable and well worth the drive.
The only problem was getting behind a slow driver ( the speed limits are already slow). It is very difficult to pass anyone.
We got caught behind people driving under the speed limits. There would be 10-12 cars creeping behind a slow driver.
The views were unbelievable and well worth the drive.
Written August 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kevan j
Norman, OK1,140 contributions
We drove through here as part of our drive from Utah to Oklahoma. We had never been here before...and it was truly awesome and beautiful. The views started to amaze as we approached Ouray and continued to amaze all the way through Durango. The road is very windy in parts and usually does not have guardrails. However, it was not particularly scary and the views of the mountain, the valleys, the towns, and the old mining operations were awesome. It would have been dangerous if I tried to take in all the views while driving, so I pulled over frequently to get out of the car, enjoy the views and breath the fresh air. We also took lots of time to enjoy the towns of Ouray and Silverton. They were both quaint and have lots of history. Very nice indeed! I highly recommend this drive if you have the time to really enjoy it. I would note that we made the drive when the weather pleasant and when the skies were blue. There was snow on the mountains but no ice on the roads...if the roads were icy it would have been scary.
Written November 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AnitaJack
Sartell, MN69 contributions
Be sure to pull of road at viewpoints and "take it all in"! We stayed overnight in Durango, then started towards Ouray for our adventure. Stop in Silverton to hike up a short trail to see the Miner's Shrine. A 9 foot marble statue of Christ is there. Walk the historic main street. We found sales on Teva sandals and sweatshirts.
Written November 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
siglerk76
Warren, OH255 contributions
Family
We drove there with our four kids that from time to time pick their heads up from the devices and looked at the view, but me and my wife did not care, we loved it. It stretches for 50 miles but the best part is closer to Silverton and was the most breathtaking view of it all.
Drive slowly and enjoy the view, stop at any stop area that you want and have fun, don't rush the road.
It is a must see if you are in the area.
Drive slowly and enjoy the view, stop at any stop area that you want and have fun, don't rush the road.
It is a must see if you are in the area.
Written June 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Fred N
Spearfish, SD867 contributions
Couples
I usually travel on two wheels but ended up traveling the Million Dollar Highway via 4 wheels this time. It was Labor Day weekend and the traffic was heavy. The sights were excellent. Take the time to stop and take some pictures. We enjoyed one side trip to relax by a high mountain lake. Traffic moves quick and the road isn’t for the faint of heart. No highway rails makes you concentrate on driving rather than letting yourself get distracted. I will ride this road next summer. Safe travels.
Written September 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mixa's Travels
Oldsmar, FL2,867 contributions
Couples
At the Visit Durango - visitor center we got some good insight and guidance on driving the Million Dollar Highway.
First do it! The scenery is spectacular. Go early, allow time for stops along the way. The curviest part is on the way from Silverton to Ouray. Plan 2 hours to go about 60 miles (without stops). Remember cars, trucks and buses drive this road daily. Yes a lot of it doesn’t have guardrails on steep curves.
Don’t drive in rain, snow, sleet and don’t drink alcohol. It is awesome.
Thankfully my husband drove. I navigated and took pictures. Yes, there are some curved sections with minimal shoulders that are steep - straight down and no guardrails that are a bit scary. But again this road is traveled safely on a daily basis. On the way up we stopped at Andrews Lake, Molas Pass, Red Mountain and a waterfall. Since we were taking the train to Silverton we continued on to Ouray, a very quaint and charming town. Seeing dark clouds over the mountains at Ouray, we headed back but still got caught in rain. So little stopping on our return. Thankfully, we eventually drive out of the rain. Hopefully, the pictures give a little feel of the beauty.
Note: The Million Dollar Highway has totally different views and scenery than the Durango Silverton Train. Plus the Highway going to Ouray is very scenic. The train only goes to Silverton. We are glad we did both as it is like experiencing two different worlds of this beautiful scenic area. One of mountains and the other of canyons and the river.
First do it! The scenery is spectacular. Go early, allow time for stops along the way. The curviest part is on the way from Silverton to Ouray. Plan 2 hours to go about 60 miles (without stops). Remember cars, trucks and buses drive this road daily. Yes a lot of it doesn’t have guardrails on steep curves.
Don’t drive in rain, snow, sleet and don’t drink alcohol. It is awesome.
Thankfully my husband drove. I navigated and took pictures. Yes, there are some curved sections with minimal shoulders that are steep - straight down and no guardrails that are a bit scary. But again this road is traveled safely on a daily basis. On the way up we stopped at Andrews Lake, Molas Pass, Red Mountain and a waterfall. Since we were taking the train to Silverton we continued on to Ouray, a very quaint and charming town. Seeing dark clouds over the mountains at Ouray, we headed back but still got caught in rain. So little stopping on our return. Thankfully, we eventually drive out of the rain. Hopefully, the pictures give a little feel of the beauty.
Note: The Million Dollar Highway has totally different views and scenery than the Durango Silverton Train. Plus the Highway going to Ouray is very scenic. The train only goes to Silverton. We are glad we did both as it is like experiencing two different worlds of this beautiful scenic area. One of mountains and the other of canyons and the river.
Written July 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
860SusanB860
Rockwall, TX3,158 contributions
I had read many of the reviews regarding how dangerous this highway was to drive and almost backed out! I am so glad that I didn't.
The drive was not as bad as some of the things you read. Yes, there are steep drop-offs in places without guard rails. There are also some places with guard rails. There are many highways that have as much risk. As long as you drive the speed limit and have a driver that keeps eyes on the road, you won't have any issues.
We drove up from Ouray to Silverton recently on a beautiful sunny day. The aspens were turning at the higher levels and the scenery was beautiful.
I particularly enjoyed seeing lots of the old mine equipment and shacks left from years gone by.
This is definitely a must-see if in the area!
The drive was not as bad as some of the things you read. Yes, there are steep drop-offs in places without guard rails. There are also some places with guard rails. There are many highways that have as much risk. As long as you drive the speed limit and have a driver that keeps eyes on the road, you won't have any issues.
We drove up from Ouray to Silverton recently on a beautiful sunny day. The aspens were turning at the higher levels and the scenery was beautiful.
I particularly enjoyed seeing lots of the old mine equipment and shacks left from years gone by.
This is definitely a must-see if in the area!
Written September 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Megan M
Woodbury, TN231 contributions
Couples
Had a no plan day so we decided to drive from Ouray to Silverton just for this Highway. Why not!?!? It was beautiful. So many pull over spots to get pics. I can’t imagine driving it in the winter. It was sunny in the morning and we had the top down in the convertible. It was 50 degrees at 8am in July! It wasn’t as overwhelming as some made it seem lol. We passed semis, horse trailers, campers… and they were fine. There’s places to pull over if you’re going to slow so that’s nice. Def stop at the bridge overlook to take pics!
Written July 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
3HCH3
6 contributions
Planning to take my family visiting Colorado across the Million Dollar Highway. Is it still as scenic with snow capped mountains in July? Is it worth it this time of the year?
ColoradoGuy582
Canon City, CO22 contributions
Yes. Snow caps make good photos. Road would be clear, but busy tourist season.
FLSTC08
Owatonna, MN289 contributions
Planning a motorcycle trip the first week in June of 2021 and I'm wondering if this road is mostly clear of snow then?
ColoradoGuy582
Canon City, CO22 contributions
weather is unpredictable, but i'd guess you would be ok. it's a heck of a bike ride. watch for rocks on the road.
Ariane N
Milpitas, CA28 contributions
I'm planning to spend my birthday this November in Colorado. We will be arriving Denver airport 11/18 at 9:40pm and will be there until Nov. 24 at 5:30pm. Places we are interested in are Estes Park/ RMNP (not sure about this one because of fire), Durango (for Winter Train), Ouray/ Telluride (Ski) and Glenwood Springs (for Yampah Spa). Is this too much to do from 11/18-11/24? This is our first time visiting Colorado and I am not a seasoned winter condition driver. I do have reservations for an all wheel SUV.
1. Should I go straight to Estes Park the night we arrive (Nov. 18)? Is the road safe to drive?
2. I would like to do the train in Durango, but is hesitant because of having to go through the Million Dollar Hwy. How is weather up there during late Nov? I was also wondering if Durango to Ouray via car vs. Durango Train has the same views or different experience?
3. If I had to cancel any of my destinations d/t weather or time restrictions, which one should I cancel? (Estes/ RMNP, Durango, Ouray, Telluride) Any recommendations on closer alternatives?
4. I wanted to keep Glenwood springs because It's the only Spa I can find that's interesting and provide scrub/ massages. Any recommendations?
So far our itinerary is Denver> Estes/ RMNP> Durango> Ouray/ Telluride> Glenwood Spring> Denver. I think I may have a case of FOMO! LOL!!! But I'm open to any suggestions and safety advice y'all might have. Thanks in advance!!
Tuxtails
Savannah, GA437 contributions
Hello! It definitely depends on the weather! I was just out there end of August and went to Pagosa Springs, Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Glenwood Springs back to Denver. Beautiful drive. My son lives there and did most of the driving in his 4 wheel drive. Glad we drove from Durango to Ouray though, instead of the other way. Some parts of Million Dollar can be scary looking over the edge! I heard the train ride is very scenic. We camped outside Silverton at South Mineral. Awesome place, even if you just drive back there. Plenty of hiking there also. Ouray is a beautiful location too.
If you have time when you go back to Denver, there are things to do in Boulder. Nice trail that goes along Boulder Creek and the scenic Flatirons.
RMNP will be a great trip for you in the future, it takes days to explore. I've been there in Spring, Summer and Fall. September is my favorite time there.
Enjoy your trip! No matter where you go in Colorado, it will be great.
Gengle
Durant, Oklahoma19 contributions
Hi. My wife and I are leaving for this trip next Tuesday, the 15th. It shows perfect weather. However, I know it fluctuates quite a bit. Can you give me a range of temps? Like from leaving Durango in the morning, to higher elevations? Thanks in advance.
Tempusfugit2015
Roslyn, NY288 contributions
Rent a all wheel drive would not be surprised to have icing conditions over night at this time of the year
If you keep to the speed limit you should be ok and the awd
We did this trip in july
Durango is low altitude but from just below silverton to ouray its a constant climb
Stop for lunch in silverton
Great place on the left side of main street w bison and venison burgers
Forgot the name but it has lots of taxidermy inside
Tessa H
Boulder, CO34 contributions
What is the closest spot to get on the Million Dollar Highway from Boulder CO?
Ursus_Polaris
Trondheim, Norway239 contributions
Ouray I guess
I have a 34 foot Class A RV. Is this stretch of Highway too much to drive? I will be towing a car but I have many years experience driving.
Rbusse
Green Cove Springs, FL87 contributions
I would not take the RV on this route, especially towing a vehicle.. Take your towed vehicle for this breathtaking ride.
I'm heading out for a motorcycle trip and was planning on taking the Million Dollar Highway north from Durango. What's with the Chip and Seal work going on?
kyso1690
Pewaukee, WI23 contributions
Yeah that chip n seal thing sucks. The roa!!! is scary but exciting to drive the way it is. They just started it while I was there. Just prepare to stop. I was stopped twice for like 15 minutes. If you ride it before they start early at sun up or later in the evening when they stop, you should be able to ride strait through. But use extreme caution. A must do road tho.
How is the drive from Durango to Silverton. We are planning a trip to Silverton and will be pulling a trailer with a RZR on. Going to drive trails in Silverton.
Elisha R
20 contributions
If we drive this route in a certain direction, can we avoid being in the lane along the drop off? Meaning, if we drive from Silverton to Ouray, would we always be in a lane that's up against the mountain and not alongside the drop offs?
Thanks!
Runningcoach
Eagle Mountain, UT39 contributions
You can drive and avoid the drop-off side of the road but it will force you to take a very long and circuitous route to get back to your starting point. I would recommend that you just drive a bit slower than normal and as the driver, do not plan on sightseeing while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Million Dollar Highway
- We recommend booking Million Dollar Highway tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 2 Million Dollar Highway tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Million Dollar Highway:
- (7.36 mi) The Avon
- (7.35 mi) The Alma House Inn
- (7.54 mi) Villa Dallavalle Hotel / Inn
- (7.62 mi) The Wyman Hotel
- (7.50 mi) Grand Imperial Hotel
- Restaurants near Million Dollar Highway:
- (7.53 mi) Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory
- (7.41 mi) Avalanche Brewing Company
- (7.65 mi) Kendall Mountain Cafe
- (7.58 mi) Handlebars Restaurant & Saloon
- (7.51 mi) Golden Block Brewery