Montrose Colorado to Durango
I want to avoid 550 because of the section between Ouray and Silverton. What is the best route from Montrose to Durango that combines scenery etc. with the minimum of steep grades ? Thanks.
Forum Discussion
- 550 is a spectacular drive. Take your time and there is no reason to avoid it.
- X2 on 145. I don't know if the mine tour is operating at Rico (the "TEXAS", I think), but if it is then it is worth a stop. It has been three or four years since we went down the back way. That route, by the way, is the roadbed of the Rio Grande Southern narrow gauge RR (sorta).
- 2gypsies gave you that info in your other post:
" Another route you might consider which is milder is from Ridgeway picking up Hwy 145 through Telluride and down sto Cortez. It's still mountain but of a more gentle kind! But then you'd miss Silverton unless you drive back up just in your Jeep from Durango."
I agree with that assessment, but you'll need to take 62 out of Ridgway to 145. Its longer, but still great scenery. If you have the time, take the spur to Telluride(145 doesn't actually go "through" Telluride) Have a great trip.
