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Million Dollar Highway
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There's some debate over the origin of the "Million Dollar" name. In Jamie Jensen's Road Trip USA: California and the Southwest, there are several explanations. One possibility: it cost about a million dollars to pave the route back in the 1930's. Another: an early traveler swore he would never travel the curvy, steep road again, "even if you paid me a million dollars!". The third is probably the best: the road was paved with gravel from nearby gold and silver mines. Later, it was discovered that the rock was still rich in ore, possibly worth a million dollars or more. |
After making a quick climb from Silverton to Red Mountain Pass, you're in for a quick drop in altitude, thanks to several sharp switchback curves that demand a speed of 15 mph or less.
These curves begin the drop into Ouray.
Stop at a scenic overlook for this view of one of the three Red Mountains (the peaks aren't named, just numbered 1, 2, and 3). The turnout also provides a great view of the remnants of the old Yankee Girl Mine.
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The Yankee Girl Mine was the site of the first successful strike in the Red Mountain area, back in 1882. For more on the history of the area, and some great pictures of the nearby mines, visit the Red Mountain Project's website. |
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Day 6
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