When it comes to adventure, there is truly no better place to be than Colorful Colorado which features something unique to see and do around every corner. Do you enjoy water sports and hiking? Then you will want to check out one (or all) of our state parks. Are you a foodie? Our cities (and small towns) have plenty of incredible fare that you must try. How about shopping and cultural festivals? You see where we are going with this, right? While you can’t go wrong with much of anything in Colorado, there is one particular drive that is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. You’re going to want to head off the paved path and take this stunning, 4.5-hour drive on the Million Dollar Highway as soon as possible.
Click here for the Google Maps directions for the trip.
Spanning 25 glorious (and sometimes heart pounding) miles is the stunning Million Dollar Highway, a historic road that runs along the magnificent San Juan Skyway and boasts some of the most jaw dropping views — and can't-miss adventures — in the state.
Million Dollar Highway, Million Dollar Hwy, Colorado, USA
While the bird's eye views are reason enough to explore the Million Dollar Highway, it's the many nearby attractions that steal the show, beginning with the mines and tours around the town of Silverton.
Not sure which to visit? We recommend the pictured Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour, which not only gives an in-depth glimpse of the area's mining history but a chance to pan for gold, too!
Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour, 721 County Road 4A, Silverton, CO 81433, USA
Do you consider yourself to be a thrill-seeker? Then the next stop has to be Uncompahgre Gorge which is home to the fast-paced Uncompahgre River and Red Mountain Creek as well as steep canyon walls.
When it comes to outdoor adventures, you will never run out of things to see and do at Uncompahgre Gorge, a local favorite for rock and ice climbing (depending on the time of year), plus rappelling and hiking. If you are looking for something a bit slower-paced, Uncompahgre Gorge is also a great spot for photography.
Since the Million Dollar Highway passes through some of the most historic areas in Colorado, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of haunting ghost towns along the route, including Animas Forks.
Like many towns of its time, Animas Forks was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush and — also like many towns of its time — began to decline when the mines dried up. Despite several devastating fires through the years, many of Animas Forks' original buildings and homes can still be seen today.
As if you needed another reason to drive (and love!) the Million Dollar Highway, it also passes through stunning Ouray, AKA the "Little Switzerland of America."
Ouray may be deemed a small town (population: 998), but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm and countless things to see and do, including ample hiking and biking, a thriving arts scene, festivals and special events, and one-of-a-kind dining and shopping.
If the Million Dollar Highway is the most beautiful road in Colorado, the rugged Last Dollar Road near Telluride is a close second. While the surroundings are gorgeous, the 18-miles of unpaved mountain terrain are best enjoyed in an off road capable vehicle like the Nissan Frontier.
Last Dollar Road, Last Dollar Rd, Telluride, CO, USA
Tip: While the Last Dollar Road can be enjoyed year-round, our favorite time to visit is in the fall, when the leaves change into vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges.
Whether you are looking for an adventure that can be completed in 3 to 5 hours or something that takes an entire weekend, there is no better Colorado adventure than the Million Dollar Highway!
What are you waiting for? There is no better time than now to plan your epic Million Dollar Highway adventure! Who will you take? And will you partake in a half-day trip or something longer? Either way, let us know in the comments and check out our previous article to learn more about the charming town of Silverton.
