Rocky Mountain RV Trips

An RV trip through the Rocky Mountains is an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and cozy campfire evenings. Here's a guide to some of the best routes, destinations, and tips for your journey.

Top Destinations1. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

• Why Visit: Towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.
• Must-See Highlights: Trail Ridge Road (America's highest continuous highway), Bear Lake, and the Many Parks Curve Overlook.
• RV Campgrounds:
  • Moraine Park Campground (limited hookups).
  • Estes Park Campground (full hookups, nearby).
• Best Activities: Hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

• Why Visit: The world's first national park is famous for its geysers, hot springs, and vast landscapes.
• Must-See Highlights: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Lamar Valley for wildlife viewing.
• RV Campgrounds:
  • Fishing Bridge RV Park (full hookups).
  • Madison Campground (no hookups).
• Best Activities: Geyser watching, guided tours, and nature photography.

3. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

• Why Visit: Jaw-dropping mountain vistas and pristine glacial lakes.
• Must-See Highlights: Jenny Lake, Signal Mountain, and the Snake River.
• RV Campgrounds:
  • Colter Bay RV Park (full hookups).
  • Gros Ventre Campground (limited hookups).
• Best Activities: Boating, hiking, and stargazing.

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

• Why Visit: Known as the "Crown of the Continent," it boasts rugged peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes.
• Must-See Highlights: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and Grinnell Glacier.
• RV Campgrounds:
  • Apgar Campground (no hookups).
  • West Glacier KOA (full amenities).
• Best Activities: Scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and backcountry hiking.

5. Banff and Jasper National Parks, Alberta, Canada

• Why Visit: These iconic Canadian parks are renowned for their turquoise lakes and snowy peaks.
• Must-See Highlights:
  • Banff: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
  • Jasper: Athabasca Glacier and Maligne Lake.
• RV Campgrounds:
  • Tunnel Mountain Village (Banff, full hookups).
  • Whistlers Campground (Jasper, full amenities).
• Best Activities: Wildlife tours, kayaking, and glacier walks.

Scenic Driving Routes1. Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (Colorado)

• Distance: 55 miles.
• Highlights: Runs between Estes Park and Central City, showcasing views of the Continental Divide.

2. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)

• Distance: 68 miles.
• Highlights: Connects Yellowstone to Red Lodge, offering some of the most dramatic mountain vistas in the Rockies.

3. Icefields Parkway (Canada)

• Distance: 144 miles.
• Highlights: Links Banff and Jasper, featuring glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way.

RV Camping Tips for the Rockies1. Book Campgrounds Early

• Popular spots fill up fast, especially in national parks. Reserve months in advance where possible.

2. Check Vehicle Limits

• Some routes, like Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, have size restrictions for RVs.

3. Be Prepared for High Altitude

• Bring plenty of water, drive slowly, and allow time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness.

4. Plan for All Weather

• The Rockies can experience sudden weather changes. Pack layers, rain gear, and blankets.

5. Practice Bear Safety

• Keep food stored in bear-proof containers and follow campground guidelines.

Activities to Enhance Your Trip

• Hiking: Trails range from easy nature walks to challenging alpine ascents.
• Fishing: Many areas allow fishing in mountain lakes and rivers (permits required).
• Photography: Capture breathtaking views and wildlife.
• Boating: Rent kayaks or canoes in parks with lakes.
• Horseback Riding: Available in many parks, offering a unique way to explore.

RV-Friendly Gear to Pack

1. Portable Grill: Perfect for campfire dinners.
2. Solar Charger: Useful for keeping devices charged in remote areas.
3. Collapsible Hiking Poles: Essential for navigating steep trails.
4. Binoculars: For wildlife spotting and stargazing.
5. All-Weather Maps: Cell service can be unreliable in the mountains.

A Rocky Mountain RV adventure promises endless discovery, breathtaking beauty, and memories to last a lifetime. With proper planning and the right gear, you'll enjoy every moment of your journey through these majestic peaks.