Forum Discussion

mittshel's avatar
mittshel
Explorer
Aug 21, 2021

Delta, CO to Durango via 550

How is 550 from Delta to Durango for a 42' fifth wheel? Thanks to my most trusted source for road info. Betsy.
  • Really, we have driven many roads worse than 550. The lanes are reasonably wide, and there are numerous large pullouts. We saw several big rigs on 550, and we have driven it several times.

    It is very scenic, or so my passenger has told me. When I am driving (especially on mountain roads), I often miss much of the scenery.

    Having said all of that, I would avoid that road if there is any ice or snow.
  • Truckers drive that route all the time with 53' trailers. If you drive carefully and know your rig, it should not be a problem. Take you time, watch out for the people that always seem to be in a hurry, and stop often to enjoy the scenery. It is a beautiful drive that I have taken many times and will continue to drive.
  • I think it all depends on how confident you are in handling your rig I’ve been places in motor Inn my motorhome that most people say I shouldn’t go and I had no problems I just take it easy think it through and proceed just like you would with the car anything else just know your limits and yes it can snow up there this time of year I live in Montrose but not to the point where you could be snowbound if you have any sense at all
  • We did the 550 last summer in the rain pulling our Voltage and it wasn't even a challenge. If you're the panicky type then I'd advise an alternate route. 550 is the most fun on a Harley assuming there isn't a big slow RV holding you back, lol.
  • NMDriver2 wrote:
    It can be done but it is not recommended. If you decide to try it make sure you watch the weather on the mountain. If the top is covered in clouds when you approach Ridgeway use US 62 at Ridgeway to go south. I have hit snow on Red Mountain in Aug when the valley was clear and 90. Check your tires, there is no shoulder for many long stretches of the way if you have a flat. If you are in a gas vehicle you will loose power as you gain altitude. Weekends are the worst time for heavy traffic over that route. Often it is bumper to bumper, particularly behind slow vehicles like yours will be.

    It is a pretty drive but only your passenger should be watching the scenery.

    BTW I lived up there for 13 years.


    What he said- I took it this spring and it was the worst decision ever - its darn right scary - was in my 38ft MH pulling a jeep
  • It can be done but it is not recommended. If you decide to try it make sure you watch the weather on the mountain. If the top is covered in clouds when you approach Ridgeway use US 62 at Ridgeway to go south. I have hit snow on Red Mountain in Aug when the valley was clear and 90. Check your tires, there is no shoulder for many long stretches of the way if you have a flat. If you are in a gas vehicle you will loose power as you gain altitude. Weekends are the worst time for heavy traffic over that route. Often it is bumper to bumper, particularly behind slow vehicles like yours will be.

    It is a pretty drive but only your passenger should be watching the scenery.

    BTW I lived up there for 13 years.
  • Depending on how comfortable you are with mountain driving. Passes and switchbacks. Two lane with no shoulder or guardrails. We did it with a 40' fifth wheel with no problems. Take your time and enjoy the beautiful ride.