Travel through Colorado’s famous Rocky Mountains, turn back the calendar 700 years at Mesa Verde’s cliff dwellings, or relive Wild West Gold Rush days at Durango ... this (and more) is all part of the San Juan Skyway experience. This scenic byway scene of Coal Bank Pass, found along the Million Dollar Highway, highlights the San Juan Mountains and some of the most rugged terrain in the West. This 265 mile byway, designated as an All-America Road, has your eyes skipping across some of Colorado’s tallest peaks and navigating some of the steepest grades of US Route 550, SR 145, US Route 160, and SR 62.
   Although you could drive the byway in a day, plan on the better part of a week to explore the mysteries of the abandoned cliff houses in Mesa Verde, kicking back at the old mining towns of Telluride, Silverton and Animas Forks, or a kayaking adventure on the Mad River. Whether you’re up for an action packed day of mountain biking, rafting, four-wheeling, or simply taking it easy on an autumn drive through Ridgway and a train ride over the Silverton and Durango Scenic Railroad, this journey on Colorado’s San Juan Skyway offers plenty to keep your head spinning.

    Byway Map