The Million Dollar Highway: Montrose to Silverton, Colorado
Once on the road leaving Montrose, we immediately ran into seasonal road work teams out repairing the damage snow and ice can do to our interstate roads. Several times we had to wait while cars took turns going north or south while teams worked on the other side of the highway. Once past these minor delays, we enjoyed the fruits of their labors – the roads to the south had already been repaired.
I’ve never found a definitive reason for the name Million Dollar Highway. Some say it was the cost per mile to build it, some say it is for the Million Dollar views (I would agree the views are worth it, but I am not sure that is the reason for the name.) There are as many stories as there are resources. Sometimes I think people just like a good story.
The Google lady REALLY wanted us to go through Telluride; we had to tell her “No Thanks” several times, and we were so glad we did. This was a day of spectacular mountain scenery that is every bit as awe-inspiring as Going to the Sun Road up in Glacier National Park.
First, the roads are clear in mid-May and passable, and the view is one series of snow-clad mountain peaks after another. The three-hour ride took us much longer because we had to stop so many times to get out and look in wonder at waterfalls, mountain views, hot springs, and old mines, one great wonder after another.
We landed in Silverton for lunch, and AdventureMan spotted the restaurant where we had lunch – Handlebars.
It was quiet when we got there and we were seated by the owner, who also spends time in Venice, Florida, so we had a good chat.
Soon after we ordered, a huge crowd arrived. We later figured out that the train from Durango had come in, probably doubling the population of Silvertown for the few hours before they had to board the train to return to Durango. Handlebars makes great hand-dipped onion rings, has a varied menu from chicken pot pies (made in house) to barbecue, to hamburgers, to salads – something delicious for everyone.
After lunch, we walked around Silverton and found the train, puffing away getting ready for the return trip.
Once back on the road, we are eager to get to Cortez. The landscape totally changes as we pass Durango, Mancos and Cortez en route to Kelly’s Ancient Echoes, where we will be staying.
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