Step Back in Time in the Mines

One of the most common questions people ask when driving down this beautiful 25-mile section of the highway best known as the “Million dollar highway.” Depending on who you ask, you might get a different answer. Some say it’s because that’s how much it costs to make the actual highway, others will say that the gravel contains gold worth millions, and others will say that the views are worth a million bucks. You’ll have to see for yourself and take home whatever story fits best.
Your first stop will be at Bear Creek Falls. There is a slight pull off the parking lot for a couple of cars can safely park as you walk carefully toward the bridge. Snap a couple pictures and head back to the car to continue your trip

Make sure you make stops at the Red Mountain overlook and use caution as your curve through the S Loop. Drive with caution as you explore highway 550. There are lots of curbs, turns, and corners but the views of the mountains make you want to drive nice and slow, so you take in all the views.

Get ready to take a step back in history as you visit Silverton. This mining town from the late 1800s has been restored and gives homage to its history. Walk around town and imagine what life would have been like for the miners who lived and worked here.
Plan your visit during the summer, as most places will be open since this town lives off tourism and has limited things open between October and April. There is usually too much snowfall during these months.
Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
For more information, please visit official website.

The San Juan County Historical Society Mining Heritage Center is an excellent museum. It goes into great detail explaining how the miners would go underground in search of gold and other minerals and showcases lots of different mining equipment and how it evolved throughout the years. With three floors of history and two buildings, it's easy to spend some time here.
Open only during the spring, summer, and fall months, it’s best to double-check with their website and call to confirm if they are open. If you plan on visiting during the winter months, give them all a to see if you schedule an appointment to explore their available archives on Thursdays.
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Everything on their menu is cooked in their wood firebrick oven and tastes amazing. Pizzas are their forte with over 10 specialty pizzas on the menu. They also make their own specialift craft beer and always feature craft beers from neighboring breweries. The building itself is unique and has an interesting story behind it so make sure to ask the staff about its history.
Check their website for hours as they change depending on the season

Walk back to your car so that you can continue your journey.

The Old Hundred Gold mine is another great stop for visitors to explore the actual mines that were once used. A guided tour that takes you underground Galena Mountain, where you can pan for your gold and watch demonstrations from the early 1900s. If you are lucky, you might find a golden nugget! The best part is that you get to take home whatever you find. Along the way, you’ll see fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and a picnic area for a picture-perfect moment.
Reservations are not required, and they operate at different hours between May and October, so it’s important to check back on their site for up-to-date information when planning your trip.
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It’s time to stretch those legs and take a quick hike around Andrews lake to a beautiful viewpoint overlooking Snowdon Peak. This 2.2. Mile round trip will get your blood pumping as you’ll climb just 460 ft but already be at over 10,000 ft of elevation. This lake is more popular for those who enjoy fishing or just general peace. When you get to the end of the lake, make sure you stay towards the right for about a mile. You’ll run into another fork, with a sign directing you toward an unmarked trail (stay left) that will lead you to Snowdon Peak Viewpoint. You can see the Kendall Mountain area and a spectacular view of several summits nearby.

The best way to end this trip is with a meal to celebrate and look back through all the wonderful places you just witnessed. The menu ítems are simple yet delicious. Using only the freshest ingredients, the menu is simple yet delicious.
The staff gives a very casual yet welcoming feeling to the place and is very knowledgeable about what’s on the menu, and they can perfectly pair anything with a glass of wine. Seating is available inside and outside, and reservations can be made the same day before 3:00 pm by calling: 970-764-4138 but are not required as you order your food from the reception and then the staff brings out your meal to your table.
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm Sunday: 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm