Million Dollar Highway: Camping, road trips & tips

What should you know before visiting Million Dollar Highway?

No toll roads expected for a car.

Many parts have drop-offs without guardrails. Slow down, keep to your lane and allow extra time.
Summer storms can trigger mudslides, and in July 2026 flooding closed Red Mountain Pass for two days. Check CDOT's COtrip before and during the drive.
The sources used give no length or weight limit for this stretch. Ask the Colorado Department of Transportation about restrictions for large motorhomes before you go.

The drive

The Million Dollar Highway is the canyon-hugging part of US 550 between Ouray and Silverton, within the 236-mile San Juan Skyway loop that starts and ends in Durango. The road winds along the mountainside near peaks that reach 14,000 ft and crosses Red Mountain Pass. The origin of the name is uncertain: one explanation is the building cost, another is gold ore left in the roadbed fill. On the way you pass through national forest, and the loop also touches Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park.

Planning

Base yourself in Ouray, Silverton or Durango and drive the stretch in daylight with a full tank. The state transport department advises checking road conditions before travel, especially in winter, and recommends COtrip. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms, and it stays cooler at altitude, so carry layers. Burn scar areas are prone to flooding after rain, even from storms miles away. Camping and overnight rules were not covered by the sources used, so ask the Forest Service or the towns.

FAQs

Where does the Million Dollar Highway run?

It is the part of US 550 between Ouray and Silverton in southwestern Colorado, over Red Mountain Pass. It belongs to the San Juan Skyway scenic byway, which loops from Durango.

Is it safe to drive in a motorhome?

The sources used state no size limit but warn of drop-offs without guardrails and sudden weather. Drive slowly in daylight, avoid storms and check COtrip. Ask the state transport department about restrictions for your vehicle.

Where do I check if the road is open?

The Colorado Department of Transportation runs COtrip and advises checking road conditions before travel. Closures can follow mudslides and flooding, as in July 2026. Check it before leaving and again along the way.