Starbucks was 62 miles down the road in Montrose. With drinks in hand we started down highway 550, also known as the Million Dollar Highway. Where did that name come from? Some say it cost a million dollars a mile to build. Others will tell you there is over a million dollars worth of gold in the fill dirt. Whatever the name it is one very scenic, and at times, very scary highway.
First stop was the town of Ouray. Incorporated in 1876, it was populated by miners chasing the dream of gold and silver in the San Juan Mountains. And these are real mountains, with many reaching up over 14,000 feet. After a short walk around town, we continued south out of Ouray for the scary part of the day. There are drop offs you don't even want to think about. Barb wouldn't look down for miles. The next walkabout was in the old mining town of Silverton. Both of these towns are well worth visiting and we will be back to spend more time.
The scenic part of 550 continues south toward Durango. Along the way were three passes over 10,000 feet and a lot of Kodak moments. For some reason I've lost how to post photos. Another short stop in Durango for a little adult refreshment and then east on highway 160.
First town of any size was Pagosa Springs. If you traveled with us in 2010, you may remember that's where we spent an unscheduled night after a deer took out the Honda. No fond memories there. Wolf Creek Pass took us up to almost 11,000 feet. From there it was a short drive into South Fork for three nights with a long time friend. BBQ dinner on the patio overlooking the Rio Grande River finished the day. 297 miles today.
Sorry about not getting this posted yesterday, I'll try to do better.
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