Return Of Red Mountain

I just can't seem to drive through Colorado without crossing the scenic but treacherous Red Mountain Pass. Red Mountain Pass is located in the San Juan Mountains and connects Silverton, Colorado to Ouray, Colorado. The name Red Mountain Pass is derived from Red Mountain which is a series of three peaks that are all over 12K feet in elevation. Despite the fact that Red Mountain was best known for its production of gold and silver, it got its name from the reddish coloration of the soil which is caused by a very high content of iron ore.

If you ever get the chance to tour western Colorado, I highly suggest you set aside some time to explore the old mining towns of Ouray and Silverton, and make sure to set aside enough time to ride the Narrow Gauge train from Silverton to Durango. There just isn't any better way to experience the stunning scenery of the Red Mountain area then by riding on a 120+ year old coal burning locomotive. The sound of the steam whistle echoing through the deep canyon will definitely blow your mind.

For more information about the Narrow Gauge Railroad and other Red Mountain attractions, please see the following web sites.

• http://www.narrowgauge.org/
  
• http://www.durangotrain.com/
  
• http://www.silvertoncolorado.com/
  
• http://www.ouraycolorado.com/
  
• http://www.durango.org/
  

Also, while in Durango, make sure to treat yourself to some Serious Texas Bar-B-Q during lunch or dinner for some amazingly good Texas Tacos. If you happen to be looking for breakfast, out on the west side of Durango you can find The Kennebec Café and Bakery. The food is spectacular, don't miss out!

Old mining structure and tailing pile along Red Mountain



Another view of the same mining structure



Another mining structure and tailing pile



Closer view of the same mining structure



A group of mining structures near the top of Red Mountain Pass



One of the 3 Red Mountain peaks









Close-up views of the rusted iron oxide rich soil of Red Mountain





Grassy peaks along Red Mountain Pass



Tailing pile, trees, and a waterfall near Silverton, Colorado



Layers of trees near Silverton, Colorado



Beautiful purple and yellow flowers along Red Mountain Pass

Please help me to continue adding to this site by using these links to Amazon and Adorama to get all your photography gadgets. Using these links will cost you nothing extra. These online stores have the best prices and great service, which is why I personally use them exclusively for all of my photography purchases. Thank you. -Todd