Alright folks, let me tell you a little story about the time I tried to drive my RV up the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana.
It was a beautiful summer day, and my buddies and I were all geared up for an epic road trip through one of the most scenic routes in the country. We had our maps and our snacks, and we were ready to roll.
But little did we know, the Going-to-the-Sun Road ain’t no walk in the park. It’s a winding, narrow road that’s carved out of the side of a mountain, and it’s not exactly RV-friendly.
So there we were, chugging along in our big ol’ RV, when we hit the first hairpin turn. I’m talking 180 degrees, folks. And let me tell you, it was like trying to steer a barge through a needle’s eye.
My buddy in the passenger seat was white as a ghost, and I’m pretty sure I heard a few choice words being muttered in the back.
But we made it through that turn, and we thought we were in the clear. But nope, it was just the beginning of a whole lotta twists and turns.
Long story short, it ain’t easy to drive an RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, but it ain’t impossible neither.
So if you’re thinking about taking your RV up there, here’s what you need to know.
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The Lowdown on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
First of all, let’s talk about the road itself. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile stretch of road that runs through Glacier National Park in Montana.
It’s a National Historic Landmark and it’s considered one of the most scenic drives in the country. It’s also a pretty popular spot for RVs, so you’re gonna want to be prepared.
Now, here’s the thing. The road is narrow and winding, and it’s not exactly built for big vehicles.
There are a lot of tight turns and steep grades, and some parts of the road are only wide enough for one vehicle at a time. So you’re gonna want to take it slow and steady, and be prepared for some hair-raising moments.
Preparing Your RV for the Going-to-the-Sun Road
So, you’re ready to tackle the Going-to-the-Sun Road in your RV? Here’s what you need to do to prepare:
- Check your brakes: Make sure they’re in good working order before you hit the road.
- Check your tires: Make sure they’re properly inflated and in good condition.
- Check your mirrors: Make sure they’re adjusted properly so you can see behind you.
- Check your clearance: Make sure you have enough clearance to make it under the low bridges on the road.
And most importantly, check your nerves. This road ain’t for the faint of heart.
Tips for Driving an RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Now that you’re all prepped and ready, here are a few tips for actually driving your RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road:
- Take it slow: Remember, this road is narrow and winding, so you don’t wanna be hauling ass. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
- Be patient: There are a lot of tight turns and steep grades, so you might have to wait for oncoming traffic to clear before you can proceed.
- Use your mirrors: Keep an eye on your mirrors to make sure you’re not taking up too much of the road.
- My personal experience: If you’re not comfortable driving your RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, it may be a better idea to park it and take a car or bike on the road instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
It is possible to drive an RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, but it’s not recommended for inexperienced drivers or for those not comfortable with driving large vehicles on narrow, winding roads.
What should I do to prepare my RV for the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Before hitting the road, check your brakes, tires, mirrors, and clearance to ensure your RV is in good working condition and that you have enough clearance to make it under the low bridges on the road.
Is there an RV-specific route on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
No, there is no RV-specific route on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. All vehicles must use the same road.
My Bottom Line
Driving an RV on the Going-to-the-Sun Road is definitely a challenge, but it’s not impossible.
If you’re up for an adventure and you’re comfortable driving a large vehicle on a narrow, winding road, then go for it.
Just make sure you’re prepared and take it slow. And if all else fails, just remember: “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger”