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NouisFam's avatar
NouisFam
Explorer
May 20, 2015

Noob trekking from Kalispell to Yellowstone to Mt Rushmore

Hi all,
We will be running a 32 foot class c. My father in law has his Commercial Drivers license and I'm no slouch myself. I've been researching best I can but I am getting information overload and am hoping someone can help with my route.
From Kalispell I plan on getting to Rex Hale campground via the West Entrance of Yellowstone. Next day on to Rushmore through Bighorn.
I've read about 14-16 through Bighorn and it seems there isn't anything too treacherous on either route unless I'm missing something.
I haven't found much on the route from the West Entrance past Yellowstone Lake and on to Rex Hale. Looks like it would run 287 to the Grand Loop to 14/16.
If anyone has advice along this route I would appreciate it.
Thanks everyone, look forward to learning more!
Best,
Roads and Routes
  • CloudDriver's avatar
    CloudDriver
    Explorer
    May 20, 2015
    I assume that you and/or your Dad have a Senior Pass so you won't have to pay the entrance fee just to drive through Yellowstone.

    Check the road construction in Yellowstone, as that may affect whether you want to drive around the lower portion of the lower loop or the upper portion to get to Fishing Bridge and the East Entrance. It's all downhill from Sylvan pass and the section inside the park will require lower gears. Once past the entrance station the grade decreases.

    Most folks take suggest route 16 over the Bighorns for lower grades, but we prefer route 14 for the scenery. Lower gears needed on either going up or down.

    Lots of folks in RVs do all of the above, and since you indicate past experience, you should have no issues.
  • Jim_Shoe's avatar
    Jim_Shoe
    Explorer
    May 20, 2015
    Maybe I'm missing something, but if you want to go from Kalispell, MT. to Mount Rushmore, SD. Head south on US 93 to I-90. Then East on I-90 to Rapid City, SD. Then south on US 16 all the way to Mt. Rushmore. 865 easy miles.
    OTOH, if you want to drive thru YNP and over the Bighorn Mountains, add another 100 slow miles.
    BTW, the SW section of the Grand Loop in YNP that passes by Old Faithful is currently closed for repairs. Friends of mine just got home from there 2 days ago.
  • NouisFam's avatar
    NouisFam
    Explorer
    May 21, 2015
    Thanks folks, I really do appreciate the feedback. Sounds like a great route to take.
    And you are correct in your second point Jim, I am in no hurry and always try to go the slow route. Teaching the kids to not take the interstate when the alternative could be so much more rewarding.
  • CloudDriver's avatar
    CloudDriver
    Explorer
    May 21, 2015
    Since you're not in a hurry, I'll throw out another item along the route for consideration.

    There are a number of Forest Service Campgrounds in the Bighorns along routes 16 and 14. The only one we have stayed at was Tie Flume on route 14, but if the others are as nice I'd highly recommend. Also if you take 14 across, stop at Shell Falls on the way up the west side.
  • Murphsmom's avatar
    Murphsmom
    Explorer
    May 21, 2015
    Don't forget the Buffalo Bill Center in Cody. It is definitely worth it to stay a couple of days and see everything the town has to offer.

    We left Deadwood this morning. Had four inches of snow last night where we were staying. It was melting fast by ten o'clock.

    If you are looking for a park in that area, I would certainly recommend Hidden Valley Campground on Highway 385. We were their first guests of the season. The sites were spacious. We had a deck overlooking the creek. Spotless restrooms/showers. And the owner and his staff were great.
  • kknowlton's avatar
    kknowlton
    Explorer II
    May 23, 2015
    I hope this isn't your first time to Yellowstone. There is so much there that you will miss just driving through. Just sayin'. :)
  • NouisFam's avatar
    NouisFam
    Explorer
    May 23, 2015
    Don't worry Knowlton. We've been before. The previous week will have been spent at Glacier as well ;)

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