Arvada is only an hour and a half southeast of Rocky Mountain National Park, which is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Longs Peak, the highest point in the park, is a popular destination for climbers who would love a panoramic view of the mountain ranges. The park also offers scenic drives and trails with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, the park has something for everyone. You will need to carry several layers of clothing as the weather can change quickly.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, four hours southwest of Arvada, has the tallest dunes in North America. The dunes were formed over thousands of years by wind and rain. This over 100,000-acre park offers great grassland landscapes with conifer forests and wetlands. You do not have to worry about where to park your RV as the park has many RV-friendly camping sites. You will have a great time sliding down the epic dunes on a warm day.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is four hours and 45 minutes southwest of Arvada, and it is one of the deepest gorges in North America. The canyon was carved over time by the Gunnison River, and it is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The park offers many ranger-led programs during which you can learn about the history and geology of the canyon.
Chatfield State Park is a half-hour south of Arvada, and it offers a variety of activities such as camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The park has a marina where you can rent a boat or bring your own. You can also go for a swim in the heated pool. It has over 1,000 acres of land and is a great place to see wildlife such as birds, deer, and coyotes.
Cherry Creek State Park is about a half-hour southeast of Arvada, and it is one of the most popular state parks in Colorado. The park has some trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park also has a reservoir where you can go for a swim, fish, or paddleboard. You can also camp in the park at its many RV-friendly campsites.
You cannot finish your trip around Arvada without visiting the beautiful and rustic Golden Gate Canyon State Park. The park is about 40 minutes northwest of Arvada and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. With rent-out boats available, you can explore the 12 miles of shoreline at the reservoir. The park also has some hiking and biking trails.
Colorado is rife with incredible landmarks and monuments near Arvada. Twenty-two minutes southwest of Arvada is the famed Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. This celebrated venue is 6,450 feet above sea level and the only naturally occurring, acoustically amphitheater in the world. It consists of two 300-foot monoliths, Creation Rock and Ship Rock. In addition to hosting concerts from some of the top artists in the world, Red Rocks also holds yoga sessions, shows films, and contains several hiking trails.
Stephen King fans must make it a point to visit The Stanley Hotel, which is an hour and 25 minutes northwest of Arvada in Estes Park. It was opened in 1909, and King stayed there once, which inspired one of his most well-known books, "The Shining." The hotel offers several tours. The Historic Tour and Caretaker’s Cottage Tour take place during the day while the decidedly spookier Spirited Stanley Tour and The Spirited Shining Tour happen at night. You can also enjoy one of The Stanley Hotel’s six eateries.
You also will want to view the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, which is an hour and 20 minutes south of Arvada in Colorado Springs. This National Natural Landmark consists of unique red rock formations that were created along a natural fault line millions of years ago. They range in color from deep red and pink to white and have been tilted vertically from the uplift of the Rocky Mountains and Pikes Peak. It is biologically diverse as it melds the piñon-juniper woodlands and grasslands with a massive mountain forest. Here, you can hike, bike, rock climb, horseback ride, and take vehicle and Segway tours.
Clear Creek RV Park in Golden features full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a laundry room. You could also consider Applewood RV Resort, 10 minutes southwest of Arvada, which has both back-in and pull-through sites. Enjoy a rustic experience at Golden’s Dakota Ridge RV Resort with its 141 camping sites.
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Arvada, CO?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Arvada, CO?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.