Quote:
Originally Posted by jwalt313
I'm planning a trip to see as much of Colorado as possible for late August to mid October this year. We are towing a 2021 21FBRS/2109S. We want to see the 4 CO national parks as well as Flaming Gorge, Durango, Ouray, Leadville and any other interesting places and mountain passes...
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Although you didn't ask, October is questionable in the mountains in Colorado. The first snow storm is usually in October, but unknown as to when in October (once in while it's September for 1st snow above 6,000ft). You have to be prepared to stay where you are until the snow melts off - usually a day or 2 that time of year.
Most of the US Forest Campgrounds close completely in mid-September. Colorado State Parks will shut some loops down, and site water is often turned off - there will normally be a couple of central spigots with water. When planning, check the status of water at any National Parks you are staying at. The same is true for privately owned RV parks - check on when they shut the water off, and whether any water is available after they do.
The passes that have winter closings will generally stay open until that first snow. Then they are closed until Memorial Day (or later). Unpaved roads are graded for passability. Most vehicles are pretty safe on the 1st level, but after that I would avoid when towing. I've been to the 2nd level in a minivan not towing, but scared myself doing so.
Sorry to add to your planning load, but it's better than no water, and possibly no campsites.
Fall is a magnificent time of year in Colorado. Enjoy the trip, plan for water and weather disruptions.
Fred W
2019 Flagstaff T21TBHW A-frame
2022 Hyundai Palisade
moved from the mountains of Colorado to the swamps of NC in 2021