Outdoor Life: Ouray to Silverton, CO
Highway 550 from Ouray to Silverton is part of the San Juan Skyway and is nicknamed the "Million Dollar Highway." Initially, it was hand-carved by a Russian immigrant, Otto Mears, in the 1880s to transport mined ore. Today, it is one of the most scenic drives in the US. The 12 miles from Ouray south along the Uncompahgre Gorge to the Red Mountain summit is narrow, has hairpin curves, and has no guardrails. It's a gorgeous drive winding along the river, up and over Red Mountain Pass at 11,018 feet, passing waterfalls and mining ghost towns.
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Ouray, Colorado
At 7,792’ elevation, Ouray (pronounced yur.ay) was named after Ute Chief Ouray and is nicknamed “Switzerland of America.” Incorporated in 1876, this mountain town was busy with miners seeking gold and silver fortunes. At one time, there were over 30 active mines. Today, this quintessential mountain town boasts hot springs, waterfalls, breweries, history, insane curvy roads, and picturesque landscapes. To add more, the splendor of the aspens turning yellow in the fall is a bucket list item.
Ouray, Colorado
Fun Things To Do in Ouray!
*Trek to the slot 85-foot waterfall at Box Canyon Falls Park
* Visit the Wright Opera House constructed in 1888 for the miner's entertainment
* Hike the 7-mile Perimeter Trail around Ouray, starting at the Visitor Center
* Sit on the rooftop at Ouray Brewery for a beer
* Eat a burger at Maggie’s Kitchen and get a beer at Mr. Grumpy Pants Brewery
* Soak in the Hot Springs Pools
* Traverse the Via Ferrata
* Tour the Bachelor Syracuse Mine 1884
* Play a round of golf at the mature award-winning 18-hole course at Golfing Divide Ranch
* Hike to the Cascade Falls Park
Crystal Lake reflection in the morning
Red Mountains from iron ore
Silverton, Colorado
This 1874 historic town is a National Historic Landmark District nestled 9,318' high in the San Juan mountains. Hungry? Stop at Golden Block Brewery for the Gold Miner pizza and Little Molas salad! Check out the Hillside Cemetery, which was first buried in 1875. Of the 3,300 gravesites, only 1,200 are marked.
All aboard the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! Winding through the gorgeous San Juan mountains along the Animas River, all the while getting a taste of 1882 railroad history.
Exploring the Alpine Loop Animas Forks Ghost Town
Wander north of Silverton to the 1870s mining ghost town of Animas Fork. This bustling mining community once had 450 people, a hotel, a saloon, and a post office. By the 1920s, it was a ghost town. There are several buildings still standing, including a refurbished jailhouse. While the road to Animas Fork is gravel, it is 2WD accessible from Silverton. There are many 4WD roads in the area, so rent an ATV at Rock Pirates for all-day fun!
Animas Fork Ghost Town
The Duncan House was built in 1879! Nine buildings are still standing, and over 30 building foundations.
Find the Sunnyside Mill foundation & ruins at Eureka Ghost Town
Taking a drive through the beautiful mountains is fun. But playing in the many creek crossings is better!
Best Outdoor Photo Booth!
Find the abandoned truck for a cool photo (drive past Animas Forks, on hill on right)
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