The largest town along the route, Durango, is the perfect place to start and end this trip. Explore the Historic Downtown, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and dominated by the landmark Strater Hotel built in the 1880s, and dine at the El Moro Tavern.

For its stunning views of Molas Lake and the surrounding mountains, you can’t miss a stop at the nearly 11,000-foot summit of Molas Pass. If you want to spend more time here, take a short hike on the trail starting at the viewpoint.

Secluded in a narrow valley surrounded by steep peaks, Silverton offers a perfect combination of stunning natural beauty and charm. Established as a mining settlement in the 1870s, the entire town is a National Historic Landmark, and one of the most intact historical sites in the U.S. Visit the Mining Heritage Center at the San Juan County Historical Society located near city hall.

Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is one of the most scenic mountain towns in Colorado, known for the Ouray Hot Springs Pool on Main Street and the Ouray Ice Park. For hiking options, try the short but steep trail up to the Lower Cascade Falls and a walk along the Uncompahgre River. For a longer hike, attempt the Ouray Perimeter Trail, which is accessible from different points in town.

Rich in history and heritage, Ridgway is another picturesque small town worth a stop, especially if you’re a fan of the film True Grit. Stop near the visitor center, visit the Ridgway Railroad Museum, and stroll through Hartwell Park. Then, walk back on Lena Street, where you’ll see the old courthouse facade and the saloon. Make sure to stop for a meal or coffee at the True Grit Cafe before you head on your way.

The most famous town along this road, home to one of the best-rated ski resorts in the U.S., Telluride, lies in a box canyon surrounded by stunning 14,000-foot peaks. As you enter the town, watch for the large herds of elk in the valley, especially in the summer. Once in town, visit the Telluride Historical Museum and stroll through the historic city center with its colorful buildings and European architecture.

From Telluride, the drive offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and hiking options near or above the timberline. When you reach the old mining town of Rico, stop at its Rico Historical Museum to learn about the area’s past. Past Rico, the road follows the scenic Dolores River Valley, with plenty of trailheads leading to dense forests and rushing mountain streams.

The small town of Dolores is a must-stop along this route, especially for a visit to the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum. This is an ideal place to learn about the Ancestral Puebloans and how to visit with respect. Indoors you’ll find museum exhibits and a replica of a Pueblo-style loom you can learn how to use.

The town of Cortez is best known as a gateway to Mesa Verde National Park, home of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the Four Corners region. The world-famous Cliff Palace is the largest one in North America. The first archaeological site designated as a national park, Mesa Verde is home to more than 4,000 sites built between the 6th and 12th centuries. A UNESCO Heritage Site, the park is a must-do for anyone driving this route.