RoadAtlas
Million Dollar Highway — United States — Mountain
North America

Million Dollar Highway

United States

Point-to-point
Silverton Ouray

In short: Million Dollar Highway is a 40 km / 25 mi mountain road trip in United States, typically driven over 1 day; 2 with hiking extension, best in late spring to early fall. Highlights: Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, Red Mountain Mining District.

Distance
40 km / 25 mi
Duration
1 day; 2 with hiking extension
Best Season
late spring to early fall
IconicModerateMountain

Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway is the dramatic stretch of US 550 between Silverton and Ouray, threading over Red Mountain Pass through steep alpine scenery, old mining country, and sheer canyon walls. Expect tight curves, dramatic overlooks, and one of the Rockies’ most memorable short drives.

Practical notes
Check CDOT current conditions immediately before driving and postpone for snow, ice, heavy rain, or poor visibility. From July 20 through late September 2026, expect alternating one-lane traffic and delays of up to 20 minutes south of Ouray, with possible 9pm–5am closures and an 11-foot width restriction. US 550 has steep drop-offs, limited shoulders, high altitude, and exposed curves; drive cautiously and avoid unsuitable trailers. Ice Lakes is a separate strenuous high-elevation extension requiring acclimatization, trail-condition checks, weather gear, water, and an early start—not a casual roadside stop.

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1Silverton over Red Mountain Pass to Ouray

Silverton · Red Mountain Pass scenic drive · The Avalanche Brewing Company

Day 2Optional Ice Lakes hiking extension near Silverton

Ice Lakes Trail · Molas Pass optional pre-route viewpoint · Handlebars Food & Saloon

Stops along the route

Silverton — Departure — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Departure
Silverton
Historic mining town with wooden storefronts and a frontier feel. A good place to fuel up before the climb.
Hotels
Ouray — Arrival — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Arrival
Ouray
The route ends in a pretty alpine town tucked into a narrow valley. Hot springs, mountain streets, and cliff views make a strong finish.
Hotels

Things to Do

Red Mountain Pass — Landmark — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Landmark
Red Mountain Pass
The route reaches its highest, most dramatic section here. Steep slopes and rugged red hills make this the signature crossing.
Red Mountain Mining District — Nature — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Nature
Red Mountain Mining District
Old mines and scarred slopes tell the story of Colorado's boom years. The landscape feels raw, colorful, and remote.
Idarado Trail Overlook — Landmark — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Landmark
Idarado Trail Overlook
A quick pullout with big canyon views near historic mining terrain. It is a classic photo stop on the drive.
Optional Ice Lakes hiking extension — Strenuous Hiking — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Strenuous Hiking
Optional Ice Lakes hiking extension
A separate second-day extension south of Silverton, not part of the 25-mile pass drive; attempt only with suitable fitness, acclimatization, weather, and trail conditions.
Red Mountain Pass Scenic Overlook — Scenic overlook — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Scenic overlook
Red Mountain Pass Scenic Overlook
One of the best viewpoints on US 550 for seeing the road carve through the mountains. Stop for photos and a look at the red volcanic slopes.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center — Hot springs — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Hot springs
Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center
A relaxing soak after the drive in a town famous for geothermal water. Great for easing sore shoulders after the twisty road.
Show 1 more
Box Cañon Falls Park — Waterfall — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Waterfall
Box Cañon Falls Park
A short walk leads to a narrow canyon and a powerful waterfall in Ouray. It is an easy add-on if you want a quick leg stretch.

Where to Eat

The Avalanche Brewing Company — Pizza and pub food — Million Dollar Highway — United States
Pizza and pub food
The Avalanche Brewing Company
Casual Silverton stop for pizza, burgers, and local beer. A solid place to eat before or after the pass.
Handlebars Food & Saloon — American pub — Million Dollar Highway — United States
American pub
Handlebars Food & Saloon
A lively Silverton saloon with hearty sandwiches and comfort food. Good for a quick meal in the center of town.
Maggie's Kitchen — American diner — Million Dollar Highway — United States
American diner
Maggie's Kitchen
A classic Ouray diner known for burgers, breakfast, and simple road-trip food. Convenient when you reach town.
Mineshaft And Co. Restaurant — American — Million Dollar Highway — United States
American
Mineshaft And Co. Restaurant
Relaxed Ouray spot with mountain-town staples and a full bar. A good dinner stop after a scenic drive.

Nearby and similar drives

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Million Dollar Highway drive?

The Million Dollar Highway covers 40 km / 25 mi from start to finish.

How long does the Million Dollar Highway take to drive?

Most travellers spend 1 day; 2 with hiking extension on the Million Dollar Highway, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the Million Dollar Highway?

The recommended season for the Million Dollar Highway is late spring to early fall.

Where does the Million Dollar Highway start and end?

The Million Dollar Highway runs from Silverton to Ouray.

What are the main stops on the Million Dollar Highway?

The Million Dollar Highway passes through Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, Red Mountain Mining District.

How difficult is the Million Dollar Highway to drive?

The Million Dollar Highway is rated moderate and is best handled with any vehicle.

Can I drive the Million Dollar Highway in a regular car?

Yes — the Million Dollar Highway is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.

Is the Million Dollar Highway safe to drive?

Check CDOT current conditions immediately before driving and postpone for snow, ice, heavy rain, or poor visibility. From July 20 through late September 2026, expect alternating one-lane traffic and delays of up to 20 minutes south of Ouray, with possible 9pm–5am closures and an 11-foot width restriction. US 550 has steep drop-offs, limited shoulders, high altitude, and exposed curves; drive cautiously and avoid unsuitable trailers. Ice Lakes is a separate strenuous high-elevation extension requiring acclimatization, trail-condition checks, weather gear, water, and an early start—not a casual roadside stop.

What scenic tier is the Million Dollar Highway?

The Million Dollar Highway is a iconic drive — Iconic road trips that anchor a region's reputation — postcard scenery, headline highways, and the routes most travellers want to drive.