Road Trip with RVshare Taos to Durango

This Taos to Durango road trip takes you through the San Juan Mountains and a number of national forests. You'll have the chance to take any number of side trips to state parks and national monuments, and farther afield, some national parks. Along the route, you'll enjoy spectacular scenery and small mountain towns with their own charms.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

This itinerary is not that long in terms of drive time. However, you can easily add several hours to it, or even a day or two or three, if you wish to get off the route and explore the surroundings. Great Sand Dunes National Park makes for an incredible day trip, as does Mesa Verde National Park. 

Taos Pueblo

Don't miss this UNESCO World Heritage Site right at the start of your road trip. The Taos Pueblo is a living Native American village home to a community of Puebloan peoples. It's one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the entire country. You can visit and walk around Taos Pueblo on your own or sign up for a guided tour. Highlights include the San Geronimo Chapel and the adobe structures that the Puebloans use as their homes.

RV Info & Tips:

• Gear & Prep: Taos Pueblo sits at over 7,110 feet in elevation, so prepare your body a day or two in advance for this high-altitude visit.

• Seasonality: The pueblo closes for about 10 weeks to visitors from late winter to early spring.

• How Long to Stay: Spend a few hours exploring the pueblo; just keep in mind to not wander into private homes, and be sure to adhere to all rules regarding photography and restricted areas.

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

The Rio Grande del Norte National Monument is north of Taos. This monument protects an area of wide-open plains cut and shaped by the Rio Grande. Highlights include the Rio Grande Gorge, where you can peer down into the canyon and see the river itself winding through it. Activities you can enjoy here include hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, hunting, and mountain biking.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: About 70 miles south of Taos, Santa Fe has numerous campgrounds available, including the Black Mesa Casino and the Rancheros de Santa Fe Campground.

• Seasonality: This part of New Mexico can experience snow and cold temperatures during the winter, so the best time to visit is spring through fall.

• How Long to Stay: Take about half a day to explore Rio Grande del Norte National Monument.

Capulin Volcano National Monument

Take U.S. 64 northeast out of Taos to Interstate 25. Head north, and when you get to Raton, exit and go east on U.S. 64 until you reach the Capulin Volcano National Monument. Here, you'll be able to see an extinct cinder cone volcano among the surrounding plains. Take Volcano Road for 2 miles up to the crater rim (note that trailers and towables aren't permitted on this road). You can hike around the volcano's rim on the 1-mile Crater Rim Trail while the 1-mile Lava Flow Trail loops around the volcano's base. The monument is a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park, meaning you'll have clear views of the night sky.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: There are no campgrounds in Capulin Volcano National Monument, but nearby Raton has places to stay, including the Willow Springs R.V. Park. 

• Seasonality: The maximum elevation in the park is 8,182 feet; the summer is the best time to visit as temperatures won't be too hot.

• How Long to Stay: You could spend a half-day up to a full day at this national monument, depending on how many hikes you want to try and how much driving you wish to do.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

There's no getting around that this road trip traverses the higher altitudes of the Southern Rocky Mountains. With that in mind, it's critical you know how to operate a bigger vehicle like a motorhome. Exploring at high elevations also means you'll want to ensure you stay healthy while on the road. 

Alternate Route Options

There are a number of routes you can take to get from Taos to Durango. One involves heading northwest out of Taos on U.S. 64. When you arrive in Chama, take U.S. 84 north into Colorado. At Pagosa Springs, head west on U.S. 160 until you get to Durango.

Another option involves staying on U.S. 64 west in New Mexico until you get to Bloomfield. Here, you can then connect with U.S. 550 and take this north to Durango.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

Unless you head down to Santa Fe or out to Raton, this road trip itinerary will not involve any interstate driving and associated rest areas. Because of this, it makes the most sense to fill up your RV's gas tank in Taos as well as stock up on supplies here. 

RV Route Logistics

• Seasonal driving conditions: While the winter landscapes among the Rockies will look gorgeous, this season is not the best for driving along winding mountain roads in an RV. Save this road trip for spring, summer, or fall.

• RV-friendly campgrounds or overnight stops: You can do this road trip in about three to four hours if you drive straight through. However, if you want to take side trips along the way, reserve at least one night at a campsite. The town of Farmington has numerous RV campgrounds where you can stay the night and rest.

• Bonus tip: Book your tickets on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. You'll travel through spectacular mountain scenery on this 45-mile, three-and-a-half-hour trip. 

RVshare is where you can rent your vehicle for your Taos to Durango road trip. Choose among motorhomes, trailers, and towables, and find the perfect RV that will be your home while you're on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Taos to Durango?

To plan an RV road trip from Taos to Durango, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Taos to Durango without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Taos to Durango. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!