Red Mountain Pass sits at 11,018 feet on the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton. The pass cuts through some of Colorado’s most dramatic alpine terrain, with towering red-stained peaks and steep drop-offs that’ll make your passenger grip the door handle. No guardrails on many sections, and the road stays narrow with minimal shoulders. Winter closures are common due to avalanche danger.
The pass is accessible year-round to standard vehicles when open, but winter conditions can shut it down for days. Summer thunderstorms bring rock slides, so check conditions before heading up. Several pullouts offer photo ops, but parking is limited during peak season.
High alpine pass on the Million Dollar Highway
Place Details
| Type | Point of Interest |
|---|---|
| Street address | Million Dollar Highway, Colorado Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 11018 ft |
| Nearest town | Ouray, Colorado |
| Miles from pavement | 0 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |