Mesa Verde to Ouray area - San Juan Kwy or Million Dollar Hwy?
 

We are on our trip, and weather appears to be rainy this Sunday 6/7 when we are traveling from Far View Lodge to Ouray.

I know both routes are mountain roads, so if weather is sketchy, which would you choose?

Thanks everyone!
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Are you asking if it is better to go through Cortez, Dolores, Placerville, Ridgway to Ouray vs. going through Durango and Silveton??

(The entire loop is called the San Juan Skyway and the Million Dollar Highway is part of the loop.)

While the view driving The Million Dollar Highway is quite spectacular; the views along the western and northern sections is almost as nice.

I am guessing you are concerned about the twisting of the road, it being narrow and that the rain will compound these things. People don't speed along that road, in fact it is often quite slow during season as so many people are trying to look and drive [not a good idea, ever, on any road. There are several pull-offs where you can do that safely]. The biggest issue as far as I am concerned are the large trucks that use that route; they can plug the road up.

IF you are nervous; take the route Cortez et al to Ouray. It isn't worth the angst to do the other route.

That said, I personally would opt for the Million Dollar route. I have driven both dozens of times and in all kinds of weather with no issues, but I was a full time local for 5 years.

Hope this helps.

Enjoy Ouray; be sure to climb Box Canyon; quite impressive this time of year. And a dip in the hot springs is always nice.
P.S. Did you love Mesa Verde? It is one of my favorite place to spend time. Enjoy

Thanks, DebitNM. We had about come to the same conclusion to play it safe ( and less white knuckle driving) by leaving Mesa Verde via the Cortez route.

Yes, we LOVE Mesa Verde, and I am not sure if I would have included it on the trip if not for all the info from you guys - so thanks.

it POURED rain today while we were on the 700 year tour. our guide - Holly - was Very good - showing not only the views and talking history, but info about the plants and lifestyles.

I have to tell you, we really enjoyed our week in New Mexico - would not be surprised at all if we do a repeat in the future. Bradbury science museum in Los Alamos, Taos Pueblo tour, low and high roads, Ghost Ranch and our cooking class were all wonderful. just ran out of time for everything else!