Forum Discussion

j_sgypsybuggy's avatar
j_sgypsybuggy
Explorer
Mar 10, 2015

Cascade Mountains, Crater Lake, Mt. Ranier

Hi--we are trying to plan a trip from Minnesota to Mt. Ranier, through the Cascades and down to Crater Lake NP. and home again. I've heard that the Cascades are beautiful and the area around Bend OR is magnificent. Trouble is trying to find a route. Seems there are several low bridges and lots of hairpin curves. My husband doesn't mind driving in the mountains (we have a 31 foot 5th wheel)but will be accompanied by friends who have a really long rig and I'm not sure about the curves. Good Sam routes us on NF25. Does anyone have a better route? Also, what things should we absolutely not miss. Any suggestions for campgrounds would also be appreciated. We will need full hook ups. We plan to go in August so hopefully the weather will not be an issue. You have given us great advice in the past so whatever info you can share will be appreciated.
Roads and Routes
  • RoyF's avatar
    RoyF
    Explorer
    Mar 10, 2015
    Is NF25 a Forest Service road? GPS devices and automatic route finders are famous for taking people down dirt roads never to be heard from again. The route may have been selected for "shortest distance". Like mdamerell said, stick to main highways. Interstate will be OK, highways 2 or 12 are also OK, although 12 across Idaho has many sharp curves. (I have always enjoyed that part, but I don't mind curves.)
  • mdamerell's avatar
    mdamerell
    Explorer
    Mar 10, 2015
    Personally, I'd stick to the US routes or Interstates when crossing mountain ranges as the grades on "I" roads are limited more than the US or other secondary roads. I look at it; if my semi will fit, so will my 5er.

About Bucket List Trips

13,487 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 18, 2025