Red Mountain in the San Juan Mountains with its three peaks got its name from the reddish iron ore rocks that cover the slopes. The mountains and valleys between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado have been heavily impacted by silver mining in the past. Despite the obvious environmental damage that came with the mining over one hundred years ago, the mountain still bares some beauty because of its color. There are several places along the winding highway where you can stop and study old mining sites and structures. We did this in the morning when we headed towards Ouray but the light was just not right for more than a “touristic snapshot”. Finally on the way back to our campsite in the evening we just timed it right and caught the setting sun making Red Mountain glow…