San Juan Skyway

The San Juan Skyway is a 235-mile All-American Road loop through southwestern Colorado's San Juan Mountains beginning in Ridgway and routing through Ouray, Silverton, Durango, Cortez, Telluride, and Placerville. The loop crosses alpine terrain exceeding 10,000 feet elevation three times and incorporates the famous 12-mile Million Dollar Highway section between Ouray and Silverton. The loop can be started from any town and ridden either direction. The route alternates between technical high-altitude passes and more open valley sections offering varied riding experiences. Elevations range from 5,000 feet in valley towns to over 11,000 feet at summits. All road surfaces are well-maintained highways suitable for touring bikes. Fuel available in towns. Plan 7 hours for riding without stops. Many riders split this loop across two days with overnight stops in towns along the route.