Southwest '18

[Boze]

We live in Michigan so our first real trip since buying the FW will be one week in late June touring the Upper Penninsula. Then in September we are planning a trip to Moab, Arches NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Zion NP, Grand Canyon NP then on to Albuquerque for the balloon fest. Then we will return via as much of Route 66 as we can find along the way.

The last time we went out west was in an old class c motor home in 1995 when the kids were 15, 13 and 10. $700 in gasoline, $700 in food and $700 in repairs! Now it will just be Momma and me with our 27.5 RKS and our Ram.

[WinnieView]

We chose to drive our class A gasser several years ago from AZ to NC, straight shot across I-40 and spent $800 in fuel.

[vcbice]

If you haven't yet, make your reservations in ABQ NOW! The CG's 'fill up' by the end of Jan (if they have not sold out already).

If you don't mind a short drive there are a few CG's in the mountains east of ABQ, about 45min from the balloon park and 30min from Winrock Mall where the shuttles will pick you up. And do use one of the shuttle services, so much easier and quicker.

FWIW, if you have not been to a balloon event, most things are done EARLY, as in before dawn. And it is usually a bit chilly (30's or 40's). I know, from Michigan that is tshirt weather

[vcbice]

PS the rest of your trip.

Don't know if you listed the NP's in the order you are going to visit or not...but...visit them in that order. Some people get disappointed with the others if they see the Grand Canyon first.

And you will need reservations if staying near the others as well.

[John from Central Florida]

Originally Posted by vcbice

The CG's 'fill up' by the end of Jan (if they have not sold out already

X2, but there are usually private campgrounds near your target areas that will put you reasonably close to them.

Awesome agenda! Happy trails!

[vcbice]

Not around ABQ during Balloon Fiesta. Even some in Santa Fe get filled that week. One couple we met were staying at the Indian reservation near Grants. Nothing closer. Some even tried the local Walmarts.

[wags999]

I would book Abq first as most require a 3 or 4 day minimun and they are already almost full. Also expect MUCH higher prices during balloon week. Grand Canyon you can get two different experiences, south rim is more commerical and larger crowds, north rim is higher in elevation and closes mid sept but is much more spectacular.

Many other parks between Moab and Bryce that are well worth it to see, just driving hwy 12 is an experience. At one point you on the very peak of a mountain, two lane road and a 1000' drop on both sides...it's a thrill, especially pulling a large RV.

Have a great trip.