One of the most unique national parks in the country, Mesa Verde National Park, lies about an hour and a half southwest of Silverton. Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906 to preserve and interpret the archaeological heritage of the Ancestral Puebloan people who called it home for over 700 years from 600 to 1300 CE. The park protects nearly 5,000 known archaeological sites including 600 cliff dwellings. From high-desert mesas to alpine peaks, these federal lands are managed for multiple uses, and visitors are asked to respect each other and the natural resources. The Great Sand Dunes National Park is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Silverton, Colorado. This national park is popular for its sand dunes, which are the tallest in North America. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is also nearby, with a driving distance being about an hour and a half between the two locations.
Located at the base of the San Juan Mountains, Ridgway State Park offers some of the best camping in Colorado. This park is an excellent place to enjoy a variety of water sports on Lake Como including fishing, boating, and swimming. Just north of Ouray, this park has magnificent scenery, water sports, and wildlife. Features 280 campsites, 3 yurts, boating, fishing, and hiking. Navajo Lake State Park offers some of the best boating, fishing, hiking, and camping in New Mexico. Navajo Lake is the second largest lake in the state, with multiple campgrounds, two marinas, and two boat docks. Navajo Lake is a haven for boaters of every stripe – motorized boaters, canoers, kayakers, water skiers, and sailors. The San Juan River is a world-class fly-fishing destination and features a campground, day-use areas, and a serene trail along the river. Mancos State Park is located in the Mancos River Valley and includes archaeological sites, petroglyphs, and wildlife. The park provides many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, picnicking, boating, and fishing.
The San Juan National Forest, Uncompahgre National Forest, Rio Grande National Forest, and Grand Mesa National Forest are all popular destinations for hikers, campers, and photographers. These forests are located within a few hours of Silverton. The San Juan National Forest is the second largest in the state at 3.3 million acres. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities to visitors, including hunting and fishing. The Uncompahgre National Forest is the third largest at 1.7 million acres while the Rio Grande National Forest spans over 1.8 million acres in a forested ring around the San Luis Valley in south-central Colorado. From the high peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Range to rugged canyons and ancient calderas, the forest offers year-round opportunities for sightseeing and abundant recreational activities. The Rio Grande National Forest forms the scenic backdrop to the San Luis Valley. With a landscape of high peaks, geological wonders, and steep river canyons, the spectacular scenery beckons adventures from near and far. Grand Mesa National Forest is the fifth largest at 1 million acres.
Silverton is a great place to explore some of the most fascinating national landmarks in the United States. The Colorado National Monument is a must-see for anyone interested in geology and paleontology. This monument features several well-preserved fossil beds, which provide a window into the past. Colorado National Monument preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. But this treasure is much more than a monument. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles. Beneath a grassy mountain valley in central Colorado lies one of the richest and most diverse fossil deposits in the world that is Florissant Fossil Beds. Up to 1700 different species have been described at this monument. A majority of those fossils are fragile, detailed compression, and impression fossils of insects and plants. The largest fossils are massive—petrified Sequoia trees up to 14 feet wide. This site features some of the best-preserved fossil beds on earth, and it's an excellent place to learn about the history of life on earth.
- There are several popular places to stay in Silverton, Colorado. One of them is the Silverton Lakes RV Resort. - The RV Park has amenities like cable television, a recreation room, and a propane exchange station. - Many other popular campgrounds include Red Mountain RV Park, Molas Lake Campgrounds & Cabins, and Castle Lakes Campground. - If you're staying at these public campgrounds near Silverton, don't forget your fishing pole!
- Silverton, Colorado has a few dump sites for travelers who want to stick close to town. - Four of the popular dump stations include United Campground, Giant Gas Station, Durango KOA Campground, Sky Ute Casino, Lodge, and RV Park. - Most dump stations are near popular landmarks and have access to gas stations, restaurants, and other services.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Silverton, CO?
When navigating and parking a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces, it's important to take your time and plan your route beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the motorhome and the height and width restrictions of the roads you'll be traveling on. When it comes to parking, look for designated spots or parking garages that can accommodate the size of your RV. Always pay attention to signage and be aware of any towing restrictions in the area.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Silverton, CO?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight and height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in Silverton, CO. Many bridges and overpasses have low clearance levels that may not accommodate the height of your RV. Additionally, be mindful of the weight of your vehicle and ensure that you're not exceeding any weight limits on the roads you're traveling.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class C RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if any leveling equipment is necessary. If so, they will walk you through how to set it up safely.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class C motorhome rental during my rental period?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental. Many RVs have storage compartments or racks that can be used to store bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear. Check with the RV owner to see what storage options are available and how much weight they can accommodate.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class C motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class C motorhome rentals are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles, so it's important to be mindful of your fuel usage. To minimize fuel costs, try to stick to slower speeds and avoid idling or rapid acceleration. Planning out your route ahead of time can also help you save fuel by avoiding unnecessary detours or backtracking.
Can I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class C motorhome rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
Yes, you can bring your own entertainment equipment or appliances to use with the Class C motorhome rental. However, be sure to check with the RV owner beforehand to ensure that the RV is equipped with the necessary outlets or connections to use your equipment. Additionally, be aware of any safety hazards, such as using portable grills near the RV, and take appropriate precautions.
Are any particular features or amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Silverton, CO?
The features and amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals can vary depending on the make and model of the RV. Some common features that may be available in Class C motorhome rentals include kitchenettes, bathrooms with showers, and additional sleeping areas. Check with the RV owner to see what features and amenities are included in their particular rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class C motorhome rental, and do I need to know any specific maintenance or cleaning considerations?
The RV owner will familiarize you with how to use the facilities. Take note of where the water and electrical hookups are located, and make sure to follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the RV owner. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, be sure to follow proper procedures for disposing of waste and using cleaning products that won't damage the RV's plumbing or fixtures.
