One of the Deadliest Roads in America Is Right Here in Colorado

I moved to Colorado almost two months ago, and I've been loving it so far!

There are so many great things to do and see out here.

You can grab a beer at some of the best breweries in Fort Collins, go see a concert in Loveland, or even take a scenic mountain drive to Horsetooth Reservoir!

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While I enjoy the ride up the mountain during nice weather conditions, I don't think I'd be ready for any mountain drives in the winter. This would be a bit too dangerous for me.

One Colorado Highway I'd Never Drive in Winter

I did some research and found a stretch of road in Colorado that I would probably opt out of driving by myself. I'll get someone who is a bit more experienced to take the wheel.

What Is the Most Dangerous Road in America?

Did you know that one of the most dangerous highways/roads in America is right here in Colorado?

I thought it would be somewhere in New York City or Los Angeles.

Nope! It's actually the Million Dollar Highway!

What Is the Million Dollar Highway?

The Million Dollar Highway is also known as U.S. Route 550.

Where Is the Million Dollar Highway Located?

This is a 25 mile stretch of roadway that runs right through the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado and , according to the official Visit Ouray Colorado. It goes all the way from Ouray to Silverton and typically takes about 45 minutes to drive.

The History Behind the Million Dollar Highway

Described as a "scenic and treacherous mountain road," the Million Dollar Highway was constructed in the late 19th century and was used as a mountain trail for minors and their supplies.

READ MORE: This Highway Is the Deadliest Stretch of Road in Colorado

If you ever take a drive out on that road, you'll be taken through some old mining towns and take in some scenic overlooks. There are plenty of opportunities to do some camping or off-roading throughout the area.

It sounds like a a picturesque drive, right?

Well, it also is a pretty dangerous one.

Why Is the Million Dollar Highway So Dangerous?

The reason that it is considered one of the most treacherous roads in America is because of its narrow lanes, steep drop offs, and "hair-raising twists and turns."

On average, there are about 40 crashes on that stretch of highway per year.

No Guardrails and Avalanche Risk Add to the Danger

To add to the intensity of the drive, there are no guard rails on this road. Not only is this one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in America, it's also one of the most avalanche prone in North America.

So, when the snow starts to fall and the plough trucks are getting to work, they need to be able to shove the snow over the cliffs or mountains, according to ESCAPE.

I'd be white knuckling the steering wheel during this entire drive.

Everyone who talks about the Million Dollar Highway urges drivers to be cautious and mindful of weather conditions when making the trek.

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