Autumn Fall Colors Along the Million Dollar Highway
A Symphony of Fall Colors
Growing up, Teresa and I cherished the simple pleasure of watching the autumn fall colors turn brilliant shades of red, gold, and orange. Now, living in the Phoenix area, we find ourselves seeking out new destinations to embrace the beauty of autumn. This year, our journey led us to the San Juan Mountains in Colorado a region famous for its spectacular fall foliage.
Durango became our home base, offering convenient access to US 550, the gateway to Silverton and beyond. While the trees in Durango were still holding onto their summer greens, the colors of fall began to emerge as we climbed higher into the mountains.
One photograph we captured along the way perfectly illustrates the layered beauty of the landscape. We call it "Layers of Color." At the highest elevations, dark green pine trees dominate the scene. Descending the slopes, the pines yield to groves of Aspen trees, each one on its own unique schedule of transformation. This creates a stunning gradient of greens, yellows, and oranges, painting the mountainside in rich autumn hues.
The Iconic Million Dollar Highway
Leaving Silverton behind, we pressed on along the renowned Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile stretch of US 550. Known for its thrilling combination of sharp curves, steep cliffs, and jaw-dropping vistas, this route between Ouray and Silverton is often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the country.
Constructed in the late 1800s as part of a toll road serving local mining operations, the origin of the highway’s name sparks lively debate. Some attribute it to the priceless views at every turn, while others jest that only a million dollars could convince someone to brave its perilous route. Another legend claims the construction cost reached a million dollars per mile. Regardless of the true story, I’d say the incredible views are worth every penny.
Nature’s Masterpiece at Red Mountain Pass
Climbing higher beyond Silverton, the road winds toward Red Mountain Pass, the highest point of our adventure at over 11,000 feet. From here, the San Juan Mountains unfurl in a breathtaking panorama, drenched in autumn fall colors.
This photograph from this spot, titled "Fall Colors From Red Mountain Pass, Colorado," captures the essence of this unforgettable view. The explosion of colors set against the rugged peaks, leaves a lasting impression.
History and Beauty at Yankee Girl Mine
Atop the pass, the striking iron-red hues of Red Mountain command attention. This area is home to the historic Yankee Girl Mine, a significant site in Colorado’s mining legacy, and now stands as a testament to the region’s rich mining heritage. The mine was discovered in the early 1880s, during the height of Colorado’s silver boom. Yankee Girl quickly became known for its extraordinarily rich ore veins, some of the highest-grade silver deposits found in the region. This made it a significant contributor to the mining boom that helped develop nearby towns such as Ouray and Silverton.
The old mine headframe stands tall amidst the vibrant autumn foliage, a testament to nature’s resilience and the lasting imprint of history.
These relics of the past have always fascinated me. They seem to whisper stories of time gone by, their weathered form contrasting beautifully with the fleeting brilliance of the fall leaves.
An Unforgettable Experience
Taking in the fall colors from the vantage point of Yankee Girl Mine offers more than just scenic beauty — it feels like stepping back into another era. The combination of rich history and natural splendor makes this journey one to remember.
Choosing the San Juan Mountains as our autumn fall colors destination proved to be the perfect decision. The Million Dollar Highway lived up to its reputation, and the experience left us both grateful for the opportunity to witness such awe-inspiring landscapes combined with amazing autumn fall colors.