At a Glance
- Route Distance: Ouray–Silverton, 25 mi
- Elevation Gain: ~2,800 ft
- Season: June–September
- Difficulty: Strenuous
Cycling the Million Dollar Highway
US-550 south from Ouray through Red Mountain Pass to Silverton is a world-class cycling challenge — narrow shoulders, enormous truck traffic, and no guardrails on many cliff-edge sections require confidence and attention. The rewards are proportional to the demands.
Most cyclists ride from Ouray to Silverton in the morning and arrange a shuttle back, or do an out-and-back to the Red Mountain Pass summit at 11,018 feet. Start early to avoid afternoon RV traffic.
Other Road Rides from Ouray
The ride north on Highway 550 to Ridgway and into the Dallas Divide is gentler and equally scenic, passing beneath the iconic Sneffels Range with open valley views. This is a better option for recreational cyclists.
Combining road and gravel sections through the Cimarron Valley makes for a longer, quieter loop away from highway traffic.
Stay, Ride, Recover
The Lumberyard Condos is at the north end of Ouray — a perfect launch point for heading south on the Million Dollar Highway climb or north toward the Ridgway valley loop. Secure bike storage and full kitchen facilities round out the cycling-friendly amenities.
Book your cycling trip at ouraycondos.com.