Question about Alpine Loop scenic road

[MDarrough]

Hello.

We are planning a trip to CO next summer to get away from this crazy Texas heat, and looking at the Durango area as a base to make day trips from.

We will be pulling our 40ft 5th wheel.

First question...we do not like RV parks (too cramped), but usually find State or Corp parks to have more room. Any suggestions for the SW part of CO?

Also...one thing that really has my interest is the Alpine Loop from Ouray to Lake City.

I have a 4X4, but it's a CC Dually. Am I just asking for trouble to think about driving it on this road? The write-ups I've seen mention tight turns and blind corners. Just wondering if the dually is too big.

Thanks in advance for your help!!

Mark

[Rattlesnake18]

I have a buddy that is from that area and can answer all those questions with detail. His name is Brian (bstrokin40), I will send him the link to this thread and he will help ya out.

[MDarrough]

Cool, thanks. I look forward to hearing from him!!

Mark

[bstrokin40]

Originally Posted by MDarrough

Hello.

We are planning a trip to CO next summer to get away from this crazy Texas heat, and looking at the Durango area as a base to make day trips from.

We will be pulling our 40ft 5th wheel.

First question...we do not like RV parks (too cramped), but usually find State or Corp parks to have more room. Any suggestions for the SW part of CO?

Also...one thing that really has my interest is the Alpine Loop from Ouray to Lake City.

I have a 4X4, but it's a CC Dually. Am I just asking for trouble to think about driving it on this road? The write-ups I've seen mention tight turns and blind corners. Just wondering if the dually is too big.

Thanks in advance for your help!!

Mark

You have picked a beautiful place to come to. I lived in the Durango area for 7 years and have a wealth of knowledge on the terrain. the Alpine Loop is not the best choice for your rig. unless they have done some serious improvements to the trail since my departure 4 years ago, the trail gets very narrow and vertical on that leg between Ouray and Lake City. It is possible to get to Lake City by pavement, but you go through Creed, stunning drive. the loop is more for shorter wheel bases and smaller vehicles. Since I am still waiting for my 1st Powerstoke I am not on the org much. Leave a message with rattlesnake18 for more specifics the closer to your adventure. we can fill you in on local activities, conditions, fire bans and so forth.

You will be able to find plenty of free camp sites for your 5th wheel. Of course no power or ammenities but that is what it is all about, right. happy coal rollin till then- Brian Garner

[MDarrough]

Hey Brian, thanks for the info!! And to you also, rattlesnake!!

I figured the dually was too big. Are there places in the area to rent a jeep?

Thanks guys. I'll take you upon the offer of info later as we get closer.

I just looked up the temp Lake City...66 degrees at 4pm?!?!
It's 106 here right now!! Our low this AM was only 82!!

Mark

[Rattlesnake18]

No problem man. I am sure you can find somewhere to rent a jeep, but I personally am not sure.

As far as the temp, yes sir, we are coolin off here for sure. I lived in Texas for 17yrs before I moved to CO 5yrs ago, man I do NOT miss the Texas heat and humidity!