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.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Silverton, CO?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Silverton, CO, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Silverton, CO?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
