Red Mountain Pass: Stunningly Terrifying

Often referred to as the “Million Dollar Highway,” the Red Mountain Pass is a 25 mile stretch of scenic highway that’s part of U.S. 550. You will find this scenic route along the San Juan Mountains (American Alps). It is situated between Silverton and Ouray, about 20 miles north of Molas Pass. The pass also happens to be the highest section of road throughout the drive, reaching 11,018 ft above sea level at its summit. 

I have driven this million dollar highway a handful of times, mostly during the summer. But a couple of years back, we took it home after a trip to Durango to ride the Polar Express. It was winter and a snowstorm had just dumped lots of fresh white powder. We thought since the storm had passed that the drive would be smooth. After waiting an hour or so in Sliverton for them to finish blasting for avalanche danger, I gripped the truck handle all the way down the windy road. Finally letting out a breath at the bottom. It was one of the most beautiful sights, and similarly terrifying.

Insider Tip: Whether you decide to brave this route, we highly recommend a visit as there are so many fun things for kids to do in Durango.

Those few who are daring enough to venture on this treacherous and daunting road will experience some of the most stunning views in the entire country. The narrow road is in fact very steep in various places and without any guardrails and other protection at some points, making it very dangerous to travel on. Especially during the winter and at night. This provides a huge rush and If this hasn’t already deterred you. And you’re up for the challenge, here’s more on what you can expect when traveling on the Red Mountain Pass.

What to Expect

Should you decide to start this route clear back in Telluride, it’s a 62-mile drive to the summit. But one that’s well worth it. The alpine views along the way are incredible. And as visitors travel past the three main peaks, they become easily mesmerized by the red color of the mountains due to the iron oxide deposits that are in the rock. Just remember to be on your guard for the 1,000-foot freefall that’s just off to the side of the road, and not much from keeping you from driving off of it. 

There’s the Red Mountain Town ghost town and a number of waterfalls and hot springs. You’ll travel past the remnants of an old mining facility that’s neat to see. Be on the watch for avalanches if you’re traveling during the winter. To add more dazzling effect to your visit, Autumn is arguably one of the best times to visit. The fall colors against the red mountain landscape is breathtaking to say the least.  

Tips for When Visiting 

For those of you that plan on taking the Red Mountain Pass to witness some of the most beautiful scenery that the Centennial State has to offer. I have a few suggestions that will help you get the most out of your visit. And that will also help keep you safe in the meantime. 

•  4 WD vehicles are strongly encouraged 
• Drive this adventure during the day (Preferably start out at first sunrise)
• Try to avoid taking this route when it’s dark or wet out. If you do, drive slow
• Take your time. Be willing to pull over at the scenic overlooks. Get off the beaten path.
• Have a second driver with you so that everyone can take turns enjoying the views 
• Spend a few nights at a town or two along the way    
• Anytime season that you visit will be beautiful, but fall has amazing foliage colors that await you

Places Worth Visiting 

San Juan National Forest 

The San Juan National Forest is 1.8 million acres of mountains, canyons, meadows, and even deserts. The area offers hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and camping opportunities. Also, be sure to stop by and pay a visit to the pristine Haviland Lake.  

Molas Lake

In order to get there, take the highway up Molas Pass. Once you get there you’ll notice an amazing overlook of Molas Lake and Animas River Gorge. Though you can’t actually swim in Molas Lake, it’s still a gorgeous 25-acre lake that provides trails, forest, and other activities for you to enjoy in the area. If you plan on camping there, you will be excited to know that it’s one of the most scenic campgrounds in the entire state. 

Animas Forks 

Animas Forks is an old ghost town that was once a bustling mining town in the late 1800’s. You’ll find this town just to the northeast of Silverton. The rickety old buildings and homes are pretty cool to see against the picturesque scenic backdrop.  

Box Canyon Waterfall

The 285 foot Box Canyon Waterfall that’s located in Ouray is a land feature that is certainly the climax of Canyon Creek. There are also three main hiking trails that are located in the park. Each one will take you to fabulous views.  

Uncompahgre Gorge

To the south of Ouray, you’ll come across the Uncompahgre Gorge, a steep mountain canyon that has rugged cliffs and a river that runs through it far below. Just remember to drive slowly and have your camera ready when you get there. 

Camping in Red Mountain Pass 

The Red Mountain Pass makes for a wonderful day trip. But I’d strongly encourage you to turn this scenic road trip into one that lasts for a couple of days. That way you can enjoy more of what the surrounding area has to offer. There is also no better way of doing that than by snatching up a campsite so that your family can enjoy an evening underneath the stars and nestled closely together around a roaring campfire. 

There are a number of paid campgrounds that you will find throughout the drive that have a handful of amenities. There’s also free primitive camping along the route as well. They don’t require reservations. But if you’re visiting on the weekends, be sure that you have a couple of spots picked out. Here’s a couple of them for you to look into.  

• Campsites close to Ouray and Ridgeway   
• Campsites close to Silverton 

Red Mountain Pass is in fact open all throughout the year. But it does close occasionally due to the massive amount of snowfall, rockslides, and avalanches that happen in the area. So if you’re planning on driving it during the winter, make sure that you find out ahead of time whether there are any road closures. Also take a look at the weather forecast before you visit. Here’s a road conditions map to help you out.   

Have you driven Red Mountain Pass? Would you do it again? Tell us in the comments below!