Community Forums

HackMan162 · 02-26-2022, 01:46 PM

So I am still a relative newbie to this RV'ing thing. I am planning a trip for July, leaving Austin and heading to Durango. Then from Durango to AngelFire. AngelFire to SantaFe, Santa Fe to Ruidoso, then heading back towards home.

I am struggling to find the best route from Durango to AngelFire. The searching I have done takes me different routes out of Pagosa Springs. I would like some real advice from people that are knowledgeable on this route.
My Canyon Star is 39' and will be towing a 2-door Jeep wrangler.

Also, anyone have advice on a 3-day drive from Austin to Durango? Looking for the best option that people recommend.

Thanks in advance!
--scott

twogypsies · 02-26-2022, 03:02 PM

Take 64 all the way.

HackMan162 · 02-26-2022, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twogypsies

Take 64 all the way.

That certainly seems to be the most direct route, and doesn't (appear to) go up as high in elevation as some suggested routes. Is it a decent road?

wolfe10 · 02-26-2022, 03:49 PM

I agree-- U.S. 64 IS the route.

But, any of those routes, including U.S. 64 have some significant grades.

At Brazos Summit, you are going over 10,000'.

Assume you have a gas coach.

The upgrades will not be an issue-- slow, but only a few MPH slower with the toad attached.

On the descent from Brazos Summit (over 10,000'), and ABSOLUTELY on the descent into Angel Fire, stop, disconnect and drive separately if you have two drivers. That 8%+ descent into Angel Fire is best done separately. There is a huge pull off at the top of the Taos to Angel Fire run (north side of the road) that is a good disconnect point. If you need WP, let me know.

Been there, done that several times, but with a diesel pusher.

twogypsies · 02-26-2022, 04:20 PM

Plan a stop in Pagosa Springs and spend a few hours soaking and relaxing in the wonderful hot springs pools of varying temperatures. They overlook the river and small town. Very clean, concrete pools and so very relaxing! We always pack a small cooler with drinks and snacks and spend the hours moving from pool to pool.

https://www.pagosahotsprings.com/

HackMan162 · 02-27-2022, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wolfe10

I agree-- U.S. 64 IS the route.

But, any of those routes, including U.S. 64 have some significant grades.

At Brazos Summit, you are going over 10,000'.

Assume you have a gas coach.

The upgrades will not be an issue-- slow, but only a few MPH slower with the toad attached.

On the descent from Brazos Summit (over 10,000'), and ABSOLUTELY on the descent into Angel Fire, stop, disconnect and drive separately if you have two drivers. That 8%+ descent into Angel Fire is best done separately. There is a huge pull off at the top of the Taos to Angel Fire run (north side of the road) that is a good disconnect point. If you need WP, let me know.

Been there, done that several times, but with a diesel pusher.

Yeah, I looked at the topo map more carefully after my post and I saw that 64 does indeed go over Brazos Summit. I could unhook, or just have my wife drive the Jeep from Pagosa Springs all the way. We are actually looking at staying at Taos Canyon stop RV Park. I "think" that is before the 8% decent into Angelfire. Are you familiar with it?

HackMan162 · 02-27-2022, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by twogypsies

Plan a stop in Pagosa Springs and spend a few hours soaking and relaxing in the wonderful hot springs pools of varying temperatures. They overlook the river and small town. Very clean, concrete pools and so very relaxing! We always pack a small cooler with drinks and snacks and spend the hours moving from pool to pool.

https://www.pagosahotsprings.com/

We do plan on exploring the Pagosa Springs area. So will definitely take your suggestion and enjoy a nice relaxing soak!