Community Forums

traveldawg · 11-07-2016, 06:53 PM

We're hoping to be in SW Colorado around early to mid May through the end of May (then on to Denver)

I don't want to make reservations so I am free to travel around Delores, Durango, Silverton, Telluride, Ouray, Montrose, Gunnison, & Leadville.

Should I or shouldn't I make reservations?

Thanks.

twogypsies · 11-07-2016, 08:03 PM

Early to mid-May I think you'll be fine without reservations. It's still fairly early to do any 4-wheeling because of snow so it's not the prime time to be there.

We rarely made reservations and did just fine - anytime. That's a favorite part of the country for us. Enjoy!

traveldawg · 11-08-2016, 04:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twogypsies

Early to mid-May I think you'll be fine without reservations. It's still fairly early to do any 4-wheeling because of snow so it's not the prime time to be there.

We rarely made reservations and did just fine - anytime. That's a favorite part of the country for us. Enjoy!

Thanks, twogypsies. That's what I was hoping to hear.

Duoglide1 · 11-08-2016, 01:56 PM

We went in July w/o reservations. The online reservations were gone but Junction Creek had walk-ups available even then and it was a prime spot as well. There were several people trying to figure out when we were leaving. I think most of the NP's have them. Also I agree May should be no issue.

2012 NuWay HitchHiker 363RSBDA, 2016 Ford F-350 Dually 6.7

RPreeb · 11-08-2016, 02:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by traveldawg

We're hoping to be in SW Colorado around early to mid May through the end of May (then on to Denver)

I don't want to make reservations so I am free to travel around Delores, Durango, Silverton, Telluride, Ouray, Montrose, Gunnison, & Leadville.

Should I or shouldn't I make reservations?

Thanks.

That's the "tween" season, 'tween skiing and summer, so it's the least busy time of the year. You may be restricted in possible campgrounds, as some (especially in the mountains) won't be open yet that early. Those that are open shouldn't require reservations except over Memorial Day weekend. I usually try to do my moving during the week to have the best chance of getting a good site.

Big Dude · 11-10-2016, 04:39 AM

When you go to Denver, I suggest Chatfield State Park and reservations

Busskipper · 11-10-2016, 05:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by traveldawg

We're hoping to be in SW Colorado around early to mid May through the end of May (then on to Denver)

I don't want to make reservations so I am free to travel around Delores, Durango, Silverton, Telluride, Ouray, Montrose, Gunnison, & Leadville.

Should I or shouldn't I make reservations?

Thanks.

You will likely need a Snow Shovel more than reservations if you are going up/into the mountains to Camp. But if the weather is Good you will likely find a good number of locals on the weekends in the lower areas.

Check out these Pic's - Colorado Photo Gallery by Stan Parker at pbase.com as Stan has some great Photo's of the area. IMHO the area you are heading is one of the many showcases of Colorado and will deserve a second visit in Late July-August to see the floral High Mountain Beauty shown in San's albums.

We have spent a couple of winters and I love to see the areas when the high passes are snow bound - most are opened around the Memorial Day Weekend - but have had that date be an issue after a heavy snow season.

Just use your head and keep an eye on the weather as above 8,000 feet a big dump is not that rare and that can really play with your plans.

Again IMHO this is a great time to be in the Mountains - Beautiful - Fewer People - and jus plain FUN!

Best of Luck, and let us know after you do the trip how it was.