Ultimate Guide to the San Juan Skyway: A Local Expert’s Favorite Stops in Southwest Colorado

The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and charming towns in Southwest Colorado. As someone who has spent years traversing the hidden gems of Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride, I’m thrilled to share an insider’s guide to this breathtaking route. Here, you’ll find detailed, context-rich advice to help you imagine your visit and plan an unforgettable adventure through one of America's most scenic and adventurous byways. 

Start your journey in Durango; a town rich in history and brimming with outdoor activities.

Durango: The Gateway to the San Juan Skyway

Historic Downtown Durango Durango’s downtown is a vibrant blend of old and new. Start your journey at the former Denver and Rio Grande Railroad Depot and stroll along Main Avenue, where historic buildings house eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Strater Hotel, an iconic landmark that glimpses into the town’s Wild West past. Grab a coffee at Durango Coffee Company before hitting the road.

Outdoor Adventures in Durango For an active adventure, consider the Animas River Trail for a bike ride or walk. It offers stunning river views and provides access to local eateries and shops. If you find yourself in Durango from May to July, you should try Durango rafting down the Lower Animas River. As you wind through the town surrounded by its historic architecture and lively atmosphere, you'll encounter class III rapids at Smelter Whitewater Park, adding just the right amount of excitement. Your knowledgeable and friendly guide will provide insights into the area’s rich history while handling all paddle commands and navigation, so no prior experience is necessary.

Purgatory Resort: Something for everyone

Purgatory Resort is a summer paradise brimming with adventure and natural beauty. As you traverse the scenic San Juan Skyway, a stop at Purgatory is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

The resort transforms into an adventure hub offering diverse activities for all ages. Mountain biking is a top draw, with miles of trails catering to beginners and experts alike. The chairlift-accessed trails provide stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, ensuring an exhilarating ride down.

Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic trails to explore, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging treks. The lush forests and alpine meadows are home to diverse wildlife and vibrant wildflowers, making every hike a picturesque experience.

For a more relaxed adventure, the alpine slide is a favorite. Riders can control their speed as they descend the winding track, enjoying panoramic mountain views. Kids and adults alike will also love the ropes course, zip line, and bungee trampolines, providing hours of fun and excitement.

Purgatory's summer activities extend beyond adrenaline-pumping adventures. The resort hosts various festivals and events, including live music and food fairs, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The scenic chairlift rides also offer a peaceful way to take in the breathtaking landscape.

Molas Pass: As you drive towards Silverton, stop at Molas Pass. This high mountain pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s an ideal spot for photography, picnicking, and simply soaking in the beauty of the Rockies.

Silverton: Stepping Back in Time

As you continue along the Skyway, Silverton is your next stop. Nestled in a high mountain valley, this town feels like a step back in time. Registered as a National Historic Landmark District with its well-preserved buildings and old-timey charm, wander the dirt streets and explore well-preserved Victorian buildings. Visit the Silverton Museum to delve into the town’s rich mining history. For a taste of the old west, stop by Handlebars Food & Saloon for a hearty meal. Don’t miss the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour, where you can experience an actual mining operation and even try panning for gold.

Silverton is also a gateway to some of the area's best off-roading and hiking trails. Located near the Weminuche Wilderness, you will find Colorado's biggest concentration of 14ers. For those seeking adventure, the Alpine Loop is a thrilling 65-mile route that takes you through rugged terrain and past ghost towns like Animas Forks. Rent an ATV/UTV or take a tour and let a guide navigate the endless trails as you follow along. If you plan to stay in Silverton, check out Our Favorite Things to Do and See in Silverton

Million Dollar Highway

Driving north from Silverton, you’ll experience the canyon-clinging stretch of the byway called the Million Dollar Highway. It was named either because it cost so much to build or because of the amount of gold ore that remained in the roadway’s fill; this section of US Route 550 between Silverton and Ouray is known for its jaw-dropping scenery and hairpin turns. Drive carefully and take your time to appreciate the sweeping vistas of rugged peaks and deep gorges. Local tip: As you pass through the meadows across from Ironton, look for moose. 

Ouray: The Switzerland of America

Upon arriving in Ouray, it's easy to see why this town is called the "Switzerland of America" for its dramatic mountain scenery. Ouray’s natural beauty is complemented by its warm and friendly community. The town is named after a Tabeguache Ute Indian chief who, in the mid-1800s, promoted peace and friendship with white settlers.

For those looking to stretch their legs, Box Canyon Falls is a must-see natural wonder in Ouray. The roaring waterfall plunges 285 feet into a narrow, quartzite canyon. The park offers easy hiking trails and a suspension bridge that provides an exhilarating view of the falls and the canyon below. For a longer hike, the Perimeter Trail encircles the town and offers panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.

Ouray is also known for its ice climbing, with enthusiasts from around the world gathering here in the winter months to tackle the frozen waterfalls of the Uncompahgre Gorge.

Ouray’s Thermal Springs: Nature’s Soothing Retreat

Ouray is famed for its natural thermal springs. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool is a perfect place to bring the kids and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. With multiple pools of varying temperatures, these thermal waters provide a therapeutic and family-friendly retreat surrounded by stunning mountain views. If you want a unique therapeutic experience and can take the heat, check out the Wiesbaden, a hot springs vapor cave 109-degree soaking pool. All the springs of the Wiesbaden flow pure, straight from the source, and contain so many beneficial minerals without any added chemicals.

Ridgway: A Hidden Gem

Located just north of Ouray, Ridgway is a small town with big attractions. Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing-optional, natural hot spring resort that offers a serene and relaxing experience. The beautifully landscaped pools are perfect for unwinding in a tranquil setting.

After you turn onto Highway 62 and cross over the Uncompaghre River, stop off at the Ouray County Ranch History Museum to discover the ranching heritage of the 1800s. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, Ridgway State Park is a fantastic stop. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The reservoir’s clear waters are ideal for swimming and paddleboarding, while the surrounding trails provide excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, take advantage of The Big Cheese and The Squeaker at the Ridgway Area Trails (RAT). 

Telluride: A Mountain Paradise

A scenic drive over the Dallas Divide through Placerville will deliver you to rugged Telluride, a town renowned for its cultural festivals and outdoor adventures.

Historic Downtown Telluride Telluride’s historic downtown is a charming blend of rustic charm and modern luxury with its Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene. Stroll down Colorado Avenue, where you’ll find boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and historic sites like the Sheridan Opera House. The Telluride Historical Museum offers insights into the town’s colorful past.

Telluride Gondola For breathtaking views without effort, take the Telluride Gondola. This free, 13-minute ride connects Telluride with Mountain Village, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. It’s a convenient and scenic way to travel between the two areas, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and dining on either end.

Bridal Veil Falls: No trip to Telluride is complete without visiting Bridal Veil Falls. As the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, it’s a stunning sight. You can hike or drive up to the base, and the more adventurous can take on the Telluride Via Ferrata- a unique climbing experience with unparalleled views of Bridal Veil Falls and the Telluride Valley below. 

Telluride Summer Resort Activities offer a blend of adventure amidst the stunning beauty of the San Juan Mountains. Visitors can explore miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, suitable for all skill levels. The resort's golf course offers a unique high-altitude experience, with meticulously maintained greens and spectacular mountain vistas. For thrill-seekers, the resort features an exhilarating zip line and mountain bike park. Telluride Bike Park is a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of trails designed to challenge and excite riders of all skill levels. The park features meticulously crafted downhill and cross-country trails that weave through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain. Riders can use the lift-served access, ensuring more time on the trails and less time climbing. The park's diverse trail system includes flowy singletracks, technical descents, and exhilarating jumps, catering to beginners and advanced riders alike. With stunning mountain vistas at every turn and a commitment to sustainability and trail maintenance, Telluride's Bike Park provides an unparalleled biking experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and the thrill of mountain biking.

Telluride's vibrant weekend festivals unite music, culture, and community in a stunning mountain setting. Each summer, the town comes alive with events like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, where world-class musicians perform against the backdrop of the San Juan Mountains, creating an unforgettable experience. The Telluride Film Festival draws cinephiles from around the globe, offering a sneak peek at some of the year's most anticipated films. Art enthusiasts flock to the Telluride Art + Architecture Weekend, celebrating the town's rich creative spirit with gallery tours, art exhibits, and architectural showcases. Whether you're a music lover, film buff, or art enthusiast, Telluride's festivals make it a must-visit weekend destination for cultural immersion and outdoor adventure. If you come during a weekend festival, pre-arrange lodging and festival tickets. 

Winter transforms Telluride into a ski paradise with expansive terrain and reliable snowfall. 

Lizard Head Pass Lizard Head Pass, located between Telluride and Rico, is another highlight of the San Juan Skyway. The pass offers stunning views of the jagged Lizard Head Peak and the surrounding wilderness. It’s an excellent hiking spot, with trails leading into the high alpine terrain.

Cortez, Dolores and McPhee Reservoir: The Heart of Anasazi Heritage

The stunning McPhee Reservoir is the second-largest body of water in the state. This serene destination offers many outdoor activities, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. At McPhee Reservoir, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on its crystal-clear waters. Surrounding Dolores and Cortez, the San Juan National Forest provides ample hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, Phils World offers nearly 60 miles of mountain bike trail just outside Cortez. The trail consists of steep, short up-and-down pitches that dip in and out of arroyos over slick rock and ledges, with views of the Sleeping Ute, La Plata, and Mesa Verde mountains. The most popular trail in the system is Rib Cage, a fast, fun, rolling trail that will make you hoop and holler. 

The area’s rich history, influenced by Native American cultures and early settlers, is showcased in local museums and archaeological sites, such as the Anasazi Heritage Center. With its recreational activities, historical significance, and breathtaking scenery, Cortez, Dolores, and McPhee Reservoir are must-visit destinations for anyone exploring the beauty of Southwest Colorado. Are you looking to camp near Phils World? Check out Ramble at Mesa Verde National Park. 

Mesa Verde National Park: A Journey Through Time

Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Southwest Colorado, offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the region over 700 years ago. Renowned for its well-preserved cliff dwellings, such as the iconic Cliff Palace, the park showcases remarkable architecture and engineering skills. Visitors can explore these ancient structures on guided tours, learning about the cultural and historical significance of the area. Beyond the archaeological wonders, Mesa Verde’s rugged landscapes provide hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities, with panoramic vistas of mesas, canyons, and lush forests. A visit to Mesa Verde National Park is a journey through time, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Return to Durango with Lifetime Memories

The San Juan Skyway is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a journey through the heart of Southwest Colorado’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to Durango's cultural charm, Silverton's rugged history, Ouray's alpine beauty, Telluride's upscale allure, or the ancient heritage near Cortez, there’s something here for every traveler. Each stop along the way offers its unique charm and a variety of experiences that cater to adventure seekers and those looking to relax and soak in the beauty of the Rockies. This guide, crafted from years of local exploration, aims to provide you with the insider knowledge you need to make your trip unforgettable. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to discover the magic of the San Juan Skyway.