The Million Dollar Highway, connecting Silverton and Ouray, is one of Colorado's unforgettable scenic routes. This thrilling high altitude road climbs up and over the San Juan Mountains. Snowfall and slippery conditions can only add to the excitement here along this hair-raising route. The lack of guardrails only adds another element of angst!
   The road began as a mining access route, as ore wagons brought out tons of rock, ladened with precious cargo, and hauled in essential supplies during the Colorado gold rush period. The large amounts of gold and silver transported over this route could suggest one of the reasons it's named Million Dollar Highway. But again, a modern marvel of road engineering and construction, may hint that costs may well have surpassed the million dollar mark. Beyond dollars and cents, the scenic views on this high altitude highway are priceless. This is one stretch of highway that should not be missed!

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