Red Mountain Pass, Colorado

A high mountain pass just a few miles out of Ouray, Colorado is Red Mountain Pass with an elevation of 11,018 feet. The pass is on the divide that separates the Ouray and San Juan Counties of Colorado. It is named after the nearby Red Mountain on the north side of the pass. From this viewpoint, the scenery is spectacular.

The Red Mountain Pass is just a few mile out of the small community of Ouray, Colorado. The Million Dollar Highway, U.S. Highway 550 travels over the top of this pass and is part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway. There are varieties of explanations regarding the source of the name for the "Million Dollar Highway." One version claims it is based on the value of the ore-bearing fill that was used to construct the road, and another says it refers to the high cost of building a road over Red Mountain Pass (11,008 feet) and the Uncompahgre Gorge. One thing no one will dispute is the million dollar views around every turn.

While you are in the area, take a side trip up to Red Mountain Pass and enjoy the panoramic views.