Why do they call it the Million Dollar Highway?
Learn more about the history of Colorado’s scenic Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton.
Introduction
In the heart of southwestern Colorado lies a stretch of roadway unlike any other: the Million Dollar Highway, also known as U.S. Route 550. This iconic 25-mile highway winds its way from the charming town of Ouray to the historic enclave of Silverton, offering adventurers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains. When you’re in town for the Ouray International Film Festival, there are breaks in the schedule to allow for such a Million Dollar journey.
History of the Highway
In the late 19th century, the Colorado landscape was dominated by rugged terrain and untamed wilderness. Enter Otto Mears, a former gold miner turned entrepreneur with a knack for road building. Inspired by the challenges of transporting his grain across the mountains, Mears set out to carve a path through the wilderness, laying the foundation for what would become the Million Dollar Highway.
Mears, a resilient Civil War veteran, seized a controlling stake in a toll road company in 1882 with a bold vision to connect Ouray to Red Mountain Pass. Despite the harsh conditions and the challenges he faced, he persevered, charging travelers a few dollars for the privilege of passage. But for Mears, it wasn't just about profits; it was about forging connections between communities and unlocking the region's potential.
The origins of the highway's name are steeped in legend, with tales ranging from extravagant spending to weary travelers swearing off the treacherous route for a million dollars. Whether the road cost a million dollars of gold and silver or people would not travel the treacherous road again for a million dollars, one thing is clear: Mears constructed an iconic passageway connecting remote Colorado towns. Regardless of its origins, the Million Dollar Highway emerged as a lifeline for locals and a marvel for travelers, etching its name into the illustrious history of Colorado.
However, Mears' ambitions were subject to controversy. His tolls sparked an outcry among merchants and miners, leading to a transfer of ownership to the state government in 1887. Undeterred, Mears continued to expand the highway, linking it to Silverton and beyond, until financial woes brought his empire crashing down in the Panic of 1893.
The Journey
Embarking on your adventure from Silverton, get ready for a heart-pounding ascent over Red Mountain Pass, which soars to dizzying heights of over 11,000 feet. The narrow, winding road, with its sharp curves and steep drop-offs, will test your driving skills and courage. As you descend towards Ouray, the highway takes you on a thrilling ride through mountainous terrain, with a series of switchbacks aptly named the Million Dollar Highway.
Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of Colorado's storied past, from Silverton's Victorian charm to the ghostly remnants of Animas Forks, once a bustling mining community frozen in time. Scenic overlooks beckon travelers to pause at the landscape's awe-inspiring beauty, and opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring alpine lakes abound across the Million Dollar Highway. And, here lies another rumor for the road's name: the million-dollar views. Check out the “Switzerland of America” lookout point outside Ouray for a spectactular mountain view.
Yet amidst the splendor lies a challenge. Despite its scenic allure, the Million Dollar Highway is notorious for its hair-raising twists and turns, narrow lanes, and steep drop-offs. Drivers are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant of ever-changing weather conditions, particularly during winter storms, when the road can become treacherous. The road doesn't have guard rails, so snow plows can quickly push the snow down the mountains. But for those willing to embrace the adventure, the Million Dollar Highway promises an unforgettable journey through some of Colorado's most spectacular scenery. So, gather your courage, heed the call of the open road, and embark on an epic odyssey along this legendary highway. With each mile traveled you'll discover why the Million Dollar Highway remains an enduring symbol of the wild and untamed spirit of the American West. While the road is open year-round for travels, we suggest checking the road conditions before embarking on the Highway.
So, why is it called the Million Dollar Highway? We will let you decide for youself.
The beauty of the Million Dollar Highway.
The lack of guard rails on the Million Dollar Highway (Highway 550) between Ouray and Silverton, Colorado, creates a scary yet scenic drive.