Rocky Mountain National Park is only 47 miles from Windsor, Colorado. Longs Peak rises more than 14,000 feet and is one of the park's most popular attractions. For hikers, there are 300 miles of trails available. Veteran hikers will enjoy both the 12-mile-long Bluebird Lake Trail that climbs nearly 2,500 feet along its length and the 0.6-mile-long Bear Lake Trail. Newbies will enjoy the Bear Lake Trail, too, along with the slightly tougher Cub Lake Trail that rises 540 feet along its length of 4.6 miles. Because of the park's elevation, sudden weather changes are common. If you travel due south from Windsor, Colorado, you will reach Great Sand Dunes National Park, which is about 300 miles away. The dunes cover about 30 square miles of the more than 100,000 acres of this national park. The tallest dunes are the height of an 80-story building. The most popular activities at this national park are sand sledding and sandboarding. You need special sleds and boards that are designed for sand, but the national park service doesn't rent them. The closest place to rent the proper equipment is the Oasis Store, which is four miles from the park. Keep in mind that the store does not rent sleds or sandboards if the sand is wet. A bit less than six hour's drive to the southwest, you will find Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It's among the newest national parks in the United States and has only been so designated for a little over 20 years. The Gunnison River cut the Black Canyon over millennia, and the park consists of 12 miles of hiking trails, cliffs for climbing, and rapids for kayaking. The kayaking is only for experts, however, because the large majority of the rapids in the canyon are Class V, and portions of them are impossible to navigate. Most of the hiking trails are short in this national park, and they range from easy to strenuous in difficulty.
Boyd Lake State Park is just 11 miles from downtown Windsor, Colorado. The park covers just about 2,000 acres. Boyd Lake itself is the park's chief attraction, and after setting up your popup trailer, you can fish, boat, and swim in the cool mountain water. Should you visit during the winter, you can skate on the lake as long as the park rangers indicate that it's safe. The park has quite a few hiking and biking trails that meander around the lake, and these are either easy or moderately difficult. Just over the border into Wyoming, near Cheyenne, Curt Gowdy State Park is a 75-mile drive in your toy hauler and popup camper from Windsor, Colorado. The park named for the famed sportscaster features 35 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Three reservoirs provide excellent fishing throughout the year. If you're a hunter, then you can hunt with a bow during the applicable hunting seasons, but firearms are not allowed. Wildlife, such as chipmunks, both mule and white-tailed deer, and elk, is plentiful in the park, so bring your camera along. Jackson Lake State Park is 57 miles from Windsor, Colorado. Hiking is quite easy in the park because of the flatter-than-normal terrain for such a mountainous area. The park covers 2,700 acres. The fishing for walleye, trout, pike, and catfish is excellent. If you like to swim, then you can do so everywhere on the lake except by the boat ramp. During the warm weather, you can play volleyball or take a walk on the short nature trail.
On the outskirts of Colorado Spring, about 160 miles from Windsor, Colorado, there is the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. The park's rangers provide a 20-minute orientation video for the site and will answer questions before you head out to explore. The Petrified Forest Loop trail is just 1.1 miles long and is an easy hike past fossilized insect and plant deposits. There are fossils of more than 1,700 species to see, and there are even a few sequoia trees that are more than 40 feet in circumference. Scott's Bluff juts 800 feet into the Nebraska sky and was a beacon on the Oregon Trail. Today, the national monument that is 150 miles from Windsor, Colorado, covers 3,000 acres, and you can experience not only the relevant American history but also that of the prehistoric periods. After you park your Windsor, Colorado RV rental, you can walk a half-mile section of the Oregon Trail and see three historically accurate prairie schooners. The Saddle Rock Trail is just 1.6 miles long, but the second half of the trail is exceptionally steep to the top of the bluff. The first 700 yards or so of this trail are paved for accessibility to wheelchairs. Three hours drive north brings you to the Agate Fossil Beds. The fossils in this national site are from the Miocene Epoch, which lasted from 23 million years ago to 5 million years ago. They include small rhinoceroses and camels and huge dogs that were the size of small bears. The so-called "Bone Cabin," which used to be a homestead, has more recently been a place for paleontologists to bunk as they studied the fossils of the area. The hiking trail that gets there is 1.1 miles long, and it's an easy hike.
Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains RV park is a luxurious place with showers, laundry, complimentary Wi-Fi, and both pull-through and back-in sites. Each site has both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical connections and full water and sewer hookups. There are showers and a hot tub available too. There is even a small lake on site where you can kayak or rent paddleboats. Winding River Resort has 104 well-apportioned RV-specific campsites that are great for a wide variety of campers. There is no pool or hot tub, but there are showers and laundry available. The RV sites have both 50-amp and 30-amp service and full hookups. The Colorado River flows right by the resort, and the fishing is great. The park likes to say that it treats everyone like members of the family, and the semi-remote location at the base of the Rocky Mountains is peaceful. In the city of Estes, you can proceed to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park of Estes Campground. The campground is pet-friendly as long as your furbabies are leashed, and you clean up after them. This RV park has laundry facilities and provides military and Passport America discounts. Camper vans and smaller motorhomes are welcome although Class A vehicles and the largest fifth-wheel trailers might have trouble. The pool is good for keeping cool during the summer.
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 Windsor, 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 Windsor, 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.
