Beautiful San Juan Skyway is in southwest Colorado. It forms a 236-mile loop that follows US 160, US 550, CO 62, and CO 145. The highways are two-lane paved roads suitable for all types of vehicles. Winter driving conditions can be hazardous and require extra caution. Portions may temporarily close for snow removal.
The San Juan Skyway scenic drive passes through millions of acres of the San Juan and Uncompahgre National Forests, offering views of cascading waterfalls in spring, fields of wildflowers ablaze with color in summer, mountain sides glistening a brilliant gold in autumn, and a wintry wonderland. The historic toll road, “Million Dollar Highway,” is traveled across along this route, winding through the Red Mountains, along the sheer sides of the Uncompahgre Gorge, and through tunnels above scenic waterfalls.
There are three wilderness areas accessed along the byway. These areas provide excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, or horseback riding in the wild San Juan Mountains. Numerous other trails found all along the byway range from short, gentle walking trails to more rigorous hiking trails leading deep into the national forests.
Campgrounds are in no short supply along this byway. Whether you’re searching for a highly developed campsite with the amenities of home or a small, secluded spot to pitch a tent, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. Many camping areas are situated along streams or lakeshores offering excellent opportunities for trout fishing.
The town of Cortez is located south of Dolores and is known as the “Archeological Center of the United States.” To the east of Cortez is the Mesa Verde National Park, showcasing the cliff dwellings once inhabited by the Anasazi Indians. Guided tours, a museum, camping, and lodging are available here. To the southwest is the famous Four Corners Monument where you can stand in four states at once.
Durango was founded in 1880 and served the once booming mining industry. Many restored historic landmarks line the streets of downtown. Also found here is the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad. Visitors can ride the train, from May through October, for a unique sight-seeing trip through the rugged mountains. The station is located downtown at the south end of Main.
The town of Telluride is a Victorian mining town founded in the late 1800s and is now an international ski resort. Butch Cassidy’s first bank robbery took place here. Located in the area are four-wheel drive roads that lead to other historic mining towns within the forest.