Durango to Telluride

What is the best way to get from Durango, Colorado to Telluride? Is it easier to go North on 550 or go West to Cortez and then head North?

head to Cortez
when you get to Mancos hang a right at the stop light it will save
you about 30 miles at the end of a road
take a right into Deloras over Lizard head pass
and into Telluride
drive time is about 2 hours longer for me cause
i have a overloaded truck
Safe Travels
:cheers