Moab to Telluride or Silverton on the Backroads

http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/27417391.cfm
Earlier thread on Moan to Ouray.

US 550 from the north is not for the faint of heart. I was driving a 45' motor coach (charter bus)last Spring. Fires near Wolf Creek Pass and elsewhere forced the detour. Absolutely the most breathtaking mountain scenery you can imagine. But--the brakes, engine retarder, my arms and nerves all had a severe workout negotiating the roller-coaster hills, dips and switchbacks. Marvelous motorcycle route--not the best for a large vehicle. Had to replace a tag tire in Durango--scrubbed that puppy clear to the cord because I didn't consistently "lift" the tag when going around the numerous switchbacks. Coincidentally, heading to RMNP in a coach tomorrow--itinerary has us driving the length of Trail Ridge Drive which opens for the season (I believe) only today. Staying in Estes Park--HS band performance in Estes, play in RMNP and float trip on the Arkansas River out of Buena Vista. Looking forward to a fun week!

A-ha! Glad I asked. My husband would NOT have been happy with me had I routed us that way. Thank you!

In terms of Silverton/Telluride, Silverton is more rustic, "downtown" is filled with souvenir shops for all the tourists that come by train, and more authentic to its mining town roots. Telluride is more glitzy, high end restaurants, real estate offices, and art galleries. Both are beautiful. I don't know what activities you have in mind. There are more easier 4x4 trails around Silverton, those around Telluride are generally more difficult IMHO.

I note that you are from SC. If you have limited experience towing in the mountains, many will advise not taking US 550 from Ouray to Silverton. Coming in from the south (Durango to Silverton), has less exposure. Another option would be to camp in Ouray and commute to both Telluride and Silverton. The route you mentioned from Moab to CO 145 is fine. There is one short (one mile) segment that goes downhill through a couple of switchbacks. Watch the recommended speeds and use your transmission to keep your speed in check.