Route 550 and the Colorado Passes
Day 12, June 3, 2009, found us leaving Salina, Utah early in the morning heading east for Durango, Colorado. As we head onto I-70 east we were surprised to find the San Rafael Swell along the way about 50 miles east from Salina. it was breath taking and proved to be a great introduction for the day. We continued east on I-7- into Colorado with a brief stop in Green Rive rfor gas and breakfast.
Once in Colorado we turned unto Route 50 east and headed toward Montrose as we have planned to travel Route 550 south to Durango crossing three major passes. When we got to Montrose, we stopped at Black Canyon HD and gas. The dealership was in an old gas station and I found a pair of Gore-Tex gloves which came highly recommended for rainy weather. As the weather began to look nasty with winds picking up and rain blowing. We put on rain gear and decided we would brave the elements and head for the three passes and Durango.
We headed south out of Montrose on Route 550 for Ouray and the first pass - the Red Mountain pass at 11,075 feet. The sun came out as we climbed through double switch-backs at 15 and 10 mph. The views were inspiring and the power of Mother Nature. The ride up the mountain was enjoyable despite the lack of guard rails and wet pavement. My picture taking ability was tested as I’d rather skip a picture than head down the side.
Following red Mountain Pass we came upon Silveron and the ride up to Molas Pass at 10,910 feet. Again the sunshine made the views and rides truly enjoyable and we decided it was a make up for the rain we endured on the ride to Lake Tahoe. The next pass was Coal Bank Pass at 10,640 feet and we felt as though we were riding on top of the world between the passes. The air was crisp and we figured the temperature was in the high 50’s. We encountered a fed rain drops and I am happy to say my new gloves kept me dry and warm.
The ride down to Duranggo was a series of long straight a-ways and gentle turns. As we came around one turn, we were greeted by a deer who just looked at us before leaving in to the woods. We arrived in Durango thrilled with the day and the sunny weather on top of the mountains. Today and this trip reminded me of the joy of riding - it is the journey and not the destination that matters! My riding partner - Chris - has only added to the experience as he also appreciates the journey.
Tomorrow we head to Kansas following some more rides over Colorado’s passes.
Have a tremendous day!