US-40 north from I-70 doable in CO?

[jimhaz2402]

In September we would like to go N up US-40 off of I-70 to spend a couple of days in Granby, then Steamboat Springs and then drive on out to Utah taking car side-trips as we go. We have a 40' Phaeton and are towing a CRV. I see about 10 miles W of Empire the road really gets CRAZY. I don't mind the driving part, but are there hairpins that make a drive like this impossible and dangerous? Thanks. Jim

[Busskipper]

jimhaz2402 wrote:
Jack, You hit it on the 'head'. And sorry I didn't state my direction of travel. Yes, we are heading west. I was checking mileage from Idaho Springs to Kremmling. Google Maps thought I should take SR-9. So I think that's what we'll do, and then enjoy Berthoud Pass from the CRV after we hook up in Kremmling. You're also right about Granby. I didn't give it a second thought after looking @ Trailer Life. Thanks to all of you who replied. jim

You have it figured out for the easy way -- but be sure to drive it in the toad -- I love Berthound Pass -- but I also prefer to stay around Grand Lake and have enjoyed the small town feel of Grand Lake -- especially downtown across from the Town Park.

Another note -- the State Parks are great -- take a look at Stage Coach SP just south of Steamboat -- on a little Lake that was the site of a failed ski resort. Yampa River -- and Steamboat Lake SP's -- all are great. Going into RMNP from this side is a totally different experience from Estes -- As you continue on Rt 40 you will have the chance to visit Dinosaur NM and maybe even Flaming Gorge or you can just continue on and come into SLC from the back side. Last but certainly not least, while in Steamboat, be sure to stop in at Winona's for the best Cinnamon Rolls in the Rockies.

This route across Colorado is so different once you leave the Grand Lake area.

BOL,

[jimhaz2402]

Jack, You hit it on the 'head'. And sorry I didn't state my direction of travel. Yes, we are heading west. I was checking mileage from Idaho Springs to Kremmling. Google Maps thought I should take SR-9. So I think that's what we'll do, and then enjoy Berthoud Pass from the CRV after we hook up in Kremmling. You're also right about Granby. I didn't give it a second thought after looking @ Trailer Life. Thanks to all of you who replied. jim

[Thunder_Mountai]

No problem. Berthoud Pass is steep on both sides. But has passing lanes as mentioned above. The grade will MAKE you take your time. The grade going up Rabbit Ears Pass heading into Steamboat is more gradual. The north side descent is steep. Good road all the way. There always seems to be a lot of slow farm/local traffic in the Kremling area.

You did say if you were coming from the west or east on I70. If from the west you might consider 9 at Silverthorne and going up to Hot Sulphur Springs. Beautiful drive and no grades worth mentioning. But I assume that since you home is in TN then you probably are coming from the east. Then do 40.

Why Granby? Not much there in my opinion unless you have friends or family. Love Steamboat in the fall.

[Bionic_Man]

Berthoud Pass is now two lanes going up. I tow my 32' 5er and 21' boat tandem up that way. You won't have any trouble.

[crabbin_cabin]

Absolutely doable. Many passing lanes and done by many, many RVs every year!
Just use those passing lanes to let faster traffic go by. Enjoy!!