The most dangerous route in America, but also the most beautiful: would you dare to drive it?
This is everything you need to know about the most dangerous road in the United States of America.
The Million Dollar Highway, a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 running between Silverton and Ouray in Colorado, is often described as one of the most scenic - and dangerous roads - in the United States.
Weaving its way through the San Juan Mountains, this route clings to steep cliffs with dizzying drop-offs and very few guardrails. The narrow roadway, combined with sharp hairpin turns and high-altitude mountain passes, makes it a white-knuckle experience for even seasoned drivers.
Much of the danger comes from the road’s extreme terrain and unpredictable weather. Drivers ascend over three major passes—Coal Bank, Molas, and Red Mountain—all of which sit above 10,000 feet.
Snow, ice, and fog are all common even into late spring, and avalanches are a real threat during winter. Remarkably, the lack of barriers along cliff edges is intentional, as snowplows need space to push snow off the side.
Yet despite the risks, the Million Dollar Highway draws thousands of daring travellers each year to see the red slopes of Red Mountain.
While we know for certain that the road was originally created by Otto Mears as a toll way in 1883, there is some debate over the origin of the road’s name . One theory suggests it cost a million dollars per mile to build in the early 20th century. Others believe the name came from the gold ore allegedly used as fill beneath the pavement. And some say it’s simply because you’d have to pay them a million dollars to drive it again.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment