San Juan Skyway
Places to Visit
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The Anasazi Heritage Center is a museum for interpreting the history and culture of the Four Corners region.
Location: Located at 27501 Hwy 184 in Dolores.
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Christ of the Mines Shrine (CO)
This shrine above the town of Silverton was built to ask God's blessing on the mining industry of the San Juans.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: The shrine is near Silverton, atop Anvil Mountain. It is just off US-550. You can get to it by walking up 10th Street or by driving the "Shrine Road."
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Colorado Welcome Center in Cortez (CO)
This center is open to the public year round to provide travelers with information about activities and points of interest while visiting Colorado.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located in Cortez at the corner of Main Street and Mildred.
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Cortez is the largest community near Mesa Verde National Park and offers the most services for visitors. The town is nestled between the majestic La Plata Mountains, the brooding Sleeping Ute Mountain, and the sharp-hewn silhouette of Mesa Verde.
Location: In southwest Colorado, about 10 miles west of Mesa Verde National Park, right by the junction of US 666 and US 160.
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Dolores, home to McPhee Lake, offers a variety of boating and recreational activities. It houses the Anasazi Heritage Center and headquarters for the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. The Dolores River is the heart and soul of this community.
Location: Just east of the junction of Highways 145 and 184; northeast of Cortez.
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Dominguez and Escalante Expedition Monument (CO)
This monument marks the passage of the Dominguez and Escalante Expedition on August 10, 1776.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Located near Milepost 68 on Interstate 160, east of the town of Mancos.
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This 'Old West' town, founded in 1880, retains its Victorian charm. Restored historic landmarks line downtown streets.
Location: Durango is in southwest Colorado, at the junction of US 550 and US 160.
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Also known as the Purgatory Ski Area, Durango Mountain Resort is known for powder snow and abundant sunshine. Summer attractions include an alpine slide, tennis, festivals, horseback riding, swimming, and camping.
Location: Located at 327 S Camino Del Rio in Durango
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Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (CO)
The railroad was founded in 1880 as a bustling railhead to serve the booming mining industry in southwestern Colorado.
Location: The railroad is located in Durango and runs to Silverton.
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Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests (CO)
The Forests include spectacular features like Bridal Veil Falls, Grand Mesa, and Alpine Tunnel.
Distance from byway: On the byway Directions: Leaving Placerville on CO-145, Uncompahgre is east and west of the road.
