If you love history, there is no better place to be than the Centennial State, thanks – in part – to our incredible past that includes everything from mining to the railroad and beyond! If you want to visit one of these historical spots for yourself and have an Only in Colorado kind of day, make plans to drive down one of Colorado’s oldest (and most beautiful) roads:
Welcome to the jaw-dropping (and steering wheel gripping) Million Dollar Highway!
Running from Silverton to Ouray, the Million Dollar Highway is a stunning stretch of U.S. Route 550 that is often called one of America's most beautiful drives.
Spanning 25 miles, the Million Dollar Highway may be a small stretch of the San Juan Skyway, but its beauty and history far surpass its relatively short length, as it was built in the late 1880s, making it one of the oldest in Colorado.
In addition to the stunning landscape, the Million Dollar Highway also boasts easy access to iconic Colorado mountain towns like - you guessed it! - Silverton and Ouray (pictured), making for a perfect day trip.
Please note: In addition to being one of the oldest roads in America, the Million Dollar Highway is also billed as being one of the most dangerous, as it is full of rail-less cliffs and sharp twists and turns, making it virtually impossible to drive during poor weather.