Results: Last Dollar Road

As Last Dollar Road winds through a low valley surrounded by jagged peaks and deep-blue skies, each bend delivers jaw-dropping scenery. At one turn you'll find yourself in a cathedral of sun-bathed aspens; at another, a flat vista with views of a quilt-like terrain of furry pines and aspens; turn again, and you're in a wide-open grassy field, where pristine nature is the only thing between you and the San Juan Mountains. Have you ever heard of the Last Dollar Road before this survey?

Don't miss the clear view of Wilson Peak, recognizable not only to geo-savvy Coloradans, but also to anyone who's ever examined the label on a Coors bottle (first image). Another point of interest is the historic ranch from the original "True Grit" western starring John Wayne. Last Dollar Road isn't a once-in-a-lifetime trip — it's more like a three-times-in-one-year necessity. Go during summer for lush greenery as far as the eye can see; again, in the fall for unparalleled red, yellow and orange foliage; and in spring, when grassy fields are blanketed with alpine wildflowers. Have you ever visited the Last Dollar Road in Colorado?

When this road was a mining supply route in the 1800s, the workers probably weren't too enthusiastic about its sharp turns and bumpy patches. But today, travelers have a whole different attitude. Thrill seekers (and confident drivers) boldly take on Last Dollar with enthusiasm. Like the infamous Road to Hana in Hawaii, Last Dollar Road can be a bit of a challenge (even impassible after a heavy rain) but is completely worth the trek. Most off-road experts in the area would classify this dirt road as a beginner to intermediate trail. Four-wheel drive is not required when the road is dry. Do you enjoy driving in mountains?

Last Dollar Road ascends from Telluride to Ridgway. You can begin your two-to-three-hour journey at either end of the road. Telluride and Ridgway are both Certified Colorado Creative Districts. If you were visiting Colorado, would you like to visit Telluride, Ridgway and the Last Dollar Road as well?