The Million Dollar Highway Loop is an amazing ride in Southwest Colorado. Drive with care as this is a mountain road with hairpin curves and dangerous dropoffs. So, use caution and enjoy the magnificent scenery. The origin of the name Million Dollar Highway is disputed. There are several legends, though, including that it cost a million dollars a mile to build it, and that its fill dirt contains a million dollars in gold ore. First time you drive it, it's a real breath taker. Lots of sweaty palms. There are sheer drops virtually along the entire route and enough hairpins to make a whirling dervish dizzy. This road is famous for its stunning view and lack of guard rails. We started this route in Durango and followed historic Highways from the start.
From Telluride it’s a scenic ride to Dolores. In Dolores you can continue into Cortez or take the shortcut straight to Mancos and then back to the starting point in Durango.
Location: Southwest Colorado
Approximate Mileage: 225 miles
Estimated Riding Time: 5.5 Hours
Surface: Paved.
Attractions:
- Durango - Pinkerton Hot Springs
- San Juan National Forest - Molas Pass Overlook
- Ames - Lizard Head Peak Overlook
- Ouray - Bear Creek Falls, Uncompahgre River Overlook, Switzerland of America Lookout Point
- Ridgway - Red Mountain Pass, Million Dollar Highway Overlook, Ouray County Ranch History Museum
Motorcycle Rides, Colorado, Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Ridgway, Placerville, Telluride, Dolores, Cortez, Mancos