Driving the Million Dollar Highway in Spring
The Million Dollar Highway is one of the most dramatic drives in America, and spring is arguably the best time to do it. The road is clear, the waterfalls are raging from snowmelt, and the traffic hasn't ramped up to summer levels yet.
The Route
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of US-550 between Silverton and Ouray, but most people drive the full 70-mile route from Durango to Ouray and back. It takes about two hours one way without stops — but you'll want to stop.
Heading north from Durango, you climb through the San Juan National Forest, pass over Coal Bank Pass (10,640 feet) and Molas Pass (10,910 feet), drop into Silverton, then continue over Red Mountain Pass (11,018 feet) before descending into Ouray.
Why Spring?
Snowmelt turns every drainage into a waterfall — cascades pouring off cliffs that don't exist in summer. The high passes might still have snow walls on either side of the road. And aspens are just starting to bud, giving everything a soft green tint.
The road is typically fully open by mid-April. Check CDOT for current conditions before heading out.
Stops Worth Making
Molas Pass has a pullout with views of the Grenadier Range. Silverton is worth at least an hour for lunch and walking the main drag. Ouray has hot springs, ice cream shops, and Box Canyon Falls.
Tips
No guardrails in many sections. Take it slow, use pullouts for faster traffic, and enjoy the views.
Our townhome Timberline is right across from Purgatory — it makes a great base camp for day trips up the highway.
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability at purgatory.pretzinger.com
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability and book direct — save 10-15% vs Airbnb/VRBO.
