Now I get to re-visit some of the most scenic stretches of Roadway in the USA -- and also to see some vistas for the first time.  The Ride today is a loop known as the San Juan Skyway -- from Durango, up Highway 550 over Coal Bank Hill and Molas Pass to Silverton, then to the famous Million Dollar Highway over Red Moutain Pass to Ouray.  The scenery is spectacular.  The San Juans rival any range in the Rocky Mountains.  Whether it's between Durango and Silverton, or near Silverton, or closer to Ouray, the views are astounding.  Turning west at Ridgway, we head over Dallas Divide for Telluride.   Now comes new terrain for me.  Continuing southward down Highway 145, next up is Lizard Head Pass and Trout Lake.  Then zooming down Highway 145 to Dolores and Cortez, I will have to bypass Mesa Verde and head back to Durango.
I'm going to need some rest. Tomorrow's Ride is a long one.
243.4 Miles -- 5 Hrs, 25 Mins
Day Six