Vernal to Estes Park (and/or Denver)

TravelHawk wrote:
We love scenery and secondary routes, and I'm fine with mountain roads and high passes when they are worthwhile. But in a class A + towed, some roads are not worth the fuel or hassle.

So, of the several routes between Vernal UT and Estes Park (or general Boulder/Denver area), what is recommended to consider, or avoid?

I could go north from Vernal to I-80 in various ways, or south to I-70 in various ways. Both of these Interstate segments would be new to us. Or I could go east on US-40 to...where?

The logical (My Route) choice, would be Vernal to Yampa SP on 40 then to Steam Boat. from SB to Stagecoach SP, Beautiful, little used park.

Then to Stillwater Camp Ground on Lake Grandby.

I'm not usually one to suggest Camp grounds but on this route I make and exception. beautiful drive, great Camp Sites and gets you from Vernal to Trail Ridge.

Personally I drive Trail Ridge in my coach and love it, but I still suggest the drive in the Toad, just to allow you a great view.

If you drive over my next stop is in the Town of Lyons they have a small park right in town on the river. (check the status as the flood likely did damage to the CG.

If you decide to head south to 70 then you are back on the beaten path and are on your own (we usually get off 70 just after Idaho Springs to Rt 6 into Golden) and will stay there in the in town RV Park on Clear Creek.

Usually when we are in this neck of the woods - leaving Grandby we would head on over to the Leadville , Buena Vista area and spend a week.

Hope this is of some help - just remember you said you were good with not having to stay on the Interstates.

BOL,