The incredibly named Million Dollar Highway ( U.S. Route 550 ) runs between the charming towns of Ouray and Silverton, Colorado,United States.
Located in the southwestern United States, Highway 550 stretches between New Mexico and Colorado, serving as a vital link between the two states. However, there is one section of this route that is more famous than any other – the “Million Dollar Highway”
Construction of the toll highway began in 1883 under the leadership of entrepreneur Otto Mears.It is not surprising that 1 mile (1.6 km) of road cost a colossal sum of 10 thousand dollars at that time.But the Million Dollar Highway received its name later, in 1922, when it was completely remodeled while already in the hands of the state.
Although the entire stretch has been called the Million Dollar Highway, it is actually twelve miles (19 km) south of Ouray through the Uncompahgre Gorge to the summit of Red Mountain Pass, which is the road earns its name. This stretch through the gorge is difficult and potentially dangerous to drive, characterized by steep cliffs, narrow lanes and a lack of guardrails, the climb up Red Mountain Pass is marked with a number of switchbacks used to gain altitude, and from new, narrow lanes for cutting traffic, many directly on the slopes of the mountains.
The Million Dollar Highway is considered one of the most beautiful in the United States.
Access : Coordinates:
Highlights :
- Red Mountain Pass is the highest and most beautiful point on this road. The height of the pass is 3400 meters.
- There are several versions of the origin of the name Million Dollar Highway : The soil used for construction contains gold and silver inclusions worth at least a million dollars. / The cost of building 1 mile of road was $1 million. / The land for the construction of the road was purchased from their then owners for $1 million. / A certain lady, who drove along this highway in winter, said that even for a million dollars she would not go back until winter was over./
- U.S. Route 550 is a branch of U.S. Route 50, running from Bernalillo, New Mexico, to Montrose, Colorado. The stretch from Silverton to Ouray is often called the “Million Dollar Highway.
- The Million Dollar Highway passes through the small town of Ouray , the city claims to be the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado.”
Go next : The small towns of Ouray Silverton in southwestern Colorado. / Durango, Colorado / The San Juan Skyway Loop. / Telluride, Colorado.
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