The most dramatic 25 miles in Colorado — clinging to cliff edges with no guardrails, climbing three mountain passes above 10,000 feet. Named for the gold ore in the roadbed — or perhaps the million dollars it cost per mile to build.

Stops on This Tour (10)

1. 1
   Ouray — "Switzerland of America" Nestled in a natural amphitheater of 13,000-foot peaks, Ouray sits at 7,792 feet. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
2. 2
   Bear Creek Falls Overlook The highway begins its climb south of Ouray. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
3. 3
   Uncompahgre Gorge The road was blasted from the sheer walls of the Uncompahgre Gorge. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
4. 4
   Red Mountain Pass — 11,018 feet The iron-stained red mountains surrounding the pass give it its name. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
5. 5
   Idarado Mine The massive mine complex operated from 1939 to 1978, producing gold, silver, lead, copper, and zinc from a labyrinth ... 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
6. 6
   Chattanooga Ghost Town Once a supply town for surrounding mines, Chattanooga is now a collection of ruins in a high mountain meadow. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
7. 7
   Molas Pass — 10,910 feet Sweeping views of the Grenadier Range and the Needle Mountains. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
8. 8
   Molas Lake A glacial lake at 10,515 feet reflecting the Needle Mountains. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
9. 9
   Coal Bank Pass — 10,640 feet The final pass, named for a coal seam exposed in the roadcut. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app
10. 10
    Silverton An entire town designated a National Historic Landmark. 🔒 Hear the full story in the Nara app

Tour content is for entertainment and general information only. Verify practical details independently. Not a substitute for official guidance.