Ouray to Silverton - More Cute Colorado Towns

The trip south from Montrose to Durango, Colorado covers some of the most beautiful countryside in the U.S. The segment from Ouray to Silverton was the highlight of the trip for me. Billing itself as "The Switzerland of America,"


the town of Ouray is another candidate for cutest Colorado mountain town:


After leaving Ouray, the mountain road known as the "Million Dollar Highway" continues to climb, first passing through more aspen and evergreens:


over the top of Red Mountain Pass:


and down into the valley where Silverton lies. Silverton is still some 9300 feet above sea level.

You can make the drive in a mere 10 minutes by watching this YouTube video.


Of course, Silverton is another candidate for cutest Colorado mountain town:


Just how pretty is the drive? It's in second place for me right after the Beartooth Highway in Montana.