Rocky Mountain National Park is near Erie, sitting just over 44 miles to the northwest of here. The dominating feature here is Longs Peak, one of the state's fourteeners that reaches 14,259 feet at its summit. The weather here can change quickly, so dress in layers, as it is not unheard of to see snow showers in June. Rocky Mountain National Park covers 265,461 acres of terrain, providing 300 miles of hiking trails of various ratings that will challenge any skill level. You can also explore the park in an RV by driving Trail Ridge Road as you enjoy the scenery and stop for photos at one of the overlooks. Driving south to central Colorado places you at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, providing access to over 100,000 acres of terrain that includes alpine lakes, forests of conifers, grasslands, tundra, and the tallest dunes in North America. The tallest dunes here reach 750 feet, and you can make your way down many of them using a sandboard or a sled. The park is wide open for exploration on foot, and you can find trails to walk in the surrounding preserve area. Nearby towns with amenities include Blanca, Gardner, Silver Cliff, and Westcliffe. You can take I-70 in Denver and travel west to reach the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, about 273 miles by road. Here you will see some of North America's oldest exposed rock, highlighted by the deep Black Canyon created by millennia of erosion by the Gunnison River. The 12-mile stretch of the canyon here offers climbing and hiking opportunities above the water and angling and kayaking adventures on the river. Drive your motorhome along Rim Drive to see the park from various overlooks before parking at one of two developed sites within the park. North Rim Campground can accommodate RVs up to 22 feet but lacks hookups. The South Rim Campground has electricity.
Boyd Lake State Park is the nearest facility, located 34 miles north of town, outside Loveland, Colorado. With 2,000 acres to explore, visitors can camp, bird watch, and hike. The top draw here is Boyd Reservoir, providing access to water activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and waterskiing. There are 140 RV sites with paved pads at this location. They have varied amenities, including electrical hookups. When you are not on the water trying for the trout or elusive tiger muskie, see if you can spot the bobcats, black bears, coyotes, deer, elk, mountain lions, or other small mammals that visit the area. Another location that is almost as close as Boyd Lake is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, 35 miles southwest of town by road. You can orient yourself and learn about the park at the visitor center before exploring the 12,000 acres the park offers. There are over 100 campsites and picnic areas to use, and the park boasts 36 miles of hiking trails, 22 of those are multi-use and shared with bikes and horses. If you are adventurous, you can get some breathtaking rock climbing in, but you need to backcountry hike to the best locations. Wildlife is abundant here, providing chances to see Albert's squirrels, black bears, deer, elk, moose, and mountain lions. Anglers will explore the park's streams, and fishing is allowed at Dude's Fishing Hole, Forgotten Valley, Kriley, and the Ranch Ponds. Nearby Cherry Creek State Park is south of Erie, on the southern edge of the Denver Metro area. It is home to the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, a body of water used for angling, boating, and other water activities. Your four-legged travel companions will enjoy the 107-acre off-leash dog area, and everyone can enjoy the 35 miles of trails. The park has RV-friendly campsites with 20, 30, and 50-amp power hookups, with a dump station that only closes during the winter.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a nearby attraction south of Erie, offering you a chance to experience the pre-history of the state. There are impression fossils of 1,700 animals and plants on display, including 14-foot-wide sequoia trees. You can also meander the 1.1-mile Petrified Loop Trail and visit the ancient Lake Florissant. Head north into Nebraska, and you can check out Scotts Bluff National Monument, a 3,000-acre location showcasing 800-foot bluffs overlooking the North Platte River. A visitor center lets you explore the area's importance as a navigation landmark, and you can visit the top of the bluffs in your Erie, CO RV rental using Summit Road. Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site sits south and east of town, near La Junta, CO. This recreation of the original Pueblo-style fort offers a short documentary and a self-guided tour of this trading outpost used by Native Americans, buffalo hunters, and soldiers until 1849. A 1.7-mile trail rated as easy explores the banks of the nearby Arkansas River.
Prospect RV Park is one of RVshare's Top Picks for campgrounds in nearby Wheat Ridge. It offers 70 back-in or pull-through sites providing full RV hookups, 30-amp power, laundry facilities, and showers for anything from a camper van to a Class A rig. One of the best locations for RV camping is Clear Creek RV Park in nearby Golden. It sits along Clear Creek, offering 30 sites with 30 or 50-amp power, cell reception, and shower facilities, all near Golden's historic downtown area. A popular facility within nearby Rocky Mountain National Park is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The pet-friendly facility has several activities for kids, with jaw-dropping panoramic views at sites with full hookups and access to showers and hot tubs.
How does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Erie, CO?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Erie, CO, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in Erie, CO, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Erie, CO. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in Erie, CO?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in Erie, CO. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.
