LOCATION: Durango, Colorado in SW part of state
WEATHER: Cold and rain/snow. Highs in 50s in valley. 30s in mountains
We took a drive on what is called the Million Dollar Highway. It goes north from Durango to Silverton and Ouray, about 75 miles. It was built in the mid-1800s for the mining companies. There are 3 theories as to how it got its name:
1. It cost $1M to build
2. After the road was built, they realized that the rocks that were used contained millions of dollars in gold and other minerals
3. Someone who drove the frightening highway said, "I wouldn't drive that highway again, for a million dollars".
I would go for #3. The highway climbs to 10,000+ feet with sheer drop-offs, rocks on the road from avalanches, no guardrails, and impossible double-switchbacks like this one....
To add to the excitement, it had snowed about a foot overnight, so the snow plows were out, and there were signs warning of icy roads.
We drove through snow and low clouds. It was really beautiful.
There were only a few cars on the road, and we all crept at about 30 mph. We drove past elk herds, beautiful mountain lakes, and ski resorts.
Ouray is a beautiful Victorian mountain village. It is called the "Little Switzerland of the USA". This is the view from downtown.
We had smoked trout dip for lunch at the Ouray Brewery. We plan to return for a week or so, once it warms up. (There is another easier route we can take with our camper.)
There are many hot springs in the area. This bubbling rock reminded us of Yellowstone.
DINNER: Time for leftovers......I stretched the leftover fajita mix with onions, mushrooms and red peppers, and served it with slices of grilled polenta. Sprinkled on some cheddar cheese and tortilla chips, and ...voila!
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