There are some experiences that nature only affords in in winter. Crisp mountain air. Snow-draped forests. And, one of our absolute favorites: empty campsites. All in all, together these factors make for breathtaking journeys. But roads turn treacherous when snow and ice come into play — especially for those piloting bigger rigs. So, for any RV adventurers braving the elements, it is a unique blend of challenge and reward. Because whether you’re a weekend warrior or a road-hardened traveler, navigating winter’s slickest perils requires preparation, prior planning, and plenty of respect for Mother Nature’s cold shoulder. But there are some routes you might just want to steer clear of: the most dangerous winter roads.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top 10 most dangerous winter roads for RV travel. Moving east to west, we break it down by region and explore the specific conditions that should give any RV enthusiast pause.
Northeast
Cabot Trail: Nova Scotia, Canada
Average Annual Snowfall: 120 Inches
Although technically outside the U.S., the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia deserves a mention for its challenging winter conditions. Blizzards, icy roads, and high winds are common along this rugged coastal route, particularly in the Cape Breton Highlands. RVers will find the combination of steep grades and hairpin turns nerve-wracking, even in smaller rigs. Limited access to gas stations and repair shops add to the stress, so fill up your tanks — both fuel and propane — before venturing onto the Cabot Trail.
Mount Washington Auto Road: New Hampshire
Average Annual Snowfall: 280 Inches
Mount Washington is known for some of the most extreme weather in the U.S. That includes hurricane-force winds and whiteout conditions. The Auto Road is steep. Narrow. And absolutely unforgiving in winter. For RV drivers, the risks far outweigh the rewards, as the climb can strain engines and brakes alike. Weekend warriors and seasoned RVers alike should think twice before attempting this ascent in the colder months.
The Rockies
Trail Ridge Road: Colorado
Average Annual Snowfall: 300-400 Inches
As the highest paved road in the United States, Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is closed during most of the winter months. For good reason. When open, this route sees heavy snow, sharp drop-offs, and gusting winds that challenge even the most confident RV driver. While smaller Class B motorhomes might navigate it more easily, large fifth-wheel trailers or Class A rigs are particularly vulnerable to sliding on narrow curves. Only the most daring campers should consider this route — and only with snow tires and a finely tuned emergency plan in place.
The Million Dollar Highway: Colorado (Again)
Average Annual Snowfall: 200 Inches
U.S. Route 550 between Ouray and Silverton earns its nickname both for its stunning views and terrifying winter conditions. Lacking guardrails in several sections, this highway is particularly hazardous for RVs with high centers of gravity. Snowstorms can roll in quickly, reducing visibility to near zero. And icy hairpin turns test even the most experienced drivers. If your Class A or fifth-wheel setup isn’t equipped with top-tier snow tires, this is one more Colorado road to avoid in winter. And it has an equally troublesome neighbor …
Red Mountain Pass: Colorado (Yes, Again)
Average Annual Snowfall: 300 Inches
Yet another Colorado entry, Red Mountain Pass on US-550 features sheer drops, avalanche-prone zones, and minimal guardrails. (After a while, you have to start to wonder what was going on with Colorado’s guardrail planning commision whenever they were making their guardrail plans.) For RVers, the steep grades can overwhelm brakes and engines alike. Wind and ice exacerbate the dangers, making proper equipment —l ike engine brake systems and tire chains — nonnegotiable. All of which makes it one of the most dangerous winter roads in the state. (Which is impressive, since we’re still in Colorado.) If you’re itching to take this route (don’t be), consider parking your rig and renting a smaller, more maneuverable vehicle for the day.
Northwest and Pacific
Beartooth Highway: Montana/Wyoming
Average Annual Snowfall: 250-300 Inches
Often dubbed the “most beautiful drive in America,” Beartooth Highway along US Route 212 becomes one of the most dangerous in winter. Snowfall starts early and doesn’t let up, burying its steep switchbacks and tight curves. With few services available and frequent road closures, it’s a gamble for anyone. Especially RVers. Towable RVs can experience sway on the icy patches, making it critical to outfit your rig with weight-distribution hitches and anti-sway bars. (A satellite phone wouldn’t hurt either.) Even so, there is something poetic about so much beauty and so much treachery packed into the same stretch of road.
Going-to-the-Sun Road: Montana
Average Annual Snowfall: 250-300 Inches
Glacier National Park’s crown jewel, Going-to-the-Sun Road, is an iconic summer drive that transforms into a winter wish-I-weren’t-here drive. Snowdrifts, avalanches, and extreme cold make this narrow mountain pass a challenge for RVs. Since the road is typically closed in the heaviest snow months, RVers considering winter trips should check on conditions prior to using this route. Given the lack of pull-offs and steep inclines, it’s better suited to nimble camper vans or smaller travel trailers.
Donner Pass: California
Average Annual Snowfall: 411.5 Inches
The Sierra Nevada Mountains are famous for beauty and infamous for weather. Donner Pass, situated along I-80, is a notorious winter bottleneck. Snowfall can pile up rapidly, leaving even the most well-prepared RVers snowed in. High winds are another concern, threatening the stability of tall RVs. For the feint of heart, this route can turn a simple ski trip into a harrowing ordeal. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, and consider traveling with an RV under 30 feet to maintain control on the steep, winding grades.
Dalton Highway: Alaska
Average Annual Snowfall: 100+ Inches
This real-life road is so full of ice and extreme isolation that Dalton Highway (State Route 11) was featured on the TV show Ice Road Truckers. Is it a coincidence you’ll find its length listed at 666 kilometers, running between Fairbanks and the Arctic Ocean, and offering no service stations for nearly 250 miles? We’ll assume not. During winter, blizzards and subzero temps dominate, and RVers may find themselves battling black ice and bleak winds. Even seasoned boondockers need to think twice about tackling this road. Carry extra fuel, tire chains, and provisions if you must drive it (although we don’t advise it) — getting stranded here could mean days of waiting for rescue.
Bonus: RV Tips for Navigating the Most Dangerous Winter Roads
If for pure daring or odd circumstance you find yourself navigating one of these roads in winter (again, we advise you not to), doing the following five things is an absolute necessity.
- Prepare Your Rig. Break out the snow tires or chains, and ensure your braking system is in top condition. Carry extra antifreeze and winterize your water tanks.
- Stock Up. Remote winter roads often lack services. Pack extra fuel, food, water, and a portable generator in case of emergencies.
- Monitor Weather Closely. Sudden storms can transform passable roads into impassable ones. Use apps like MyRadar or NOAA Weather to stay informed.
- Know Your Limitations. Not all RVs are created equal. If you drive a Class A, consider bypassing routes with sharp switchbacks or steep inclines.
- Stay Connected. Cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Consider investing in a satellite communication device like a Garmin inReach for emergencies.
Winter RVing can be an unforgettable experience, but safety should always come first. Whether you’re a weekend warrior chasing powder or a road-hardened snowbird heading South, knowing which roads to avoid — and how to prepare for those you can’t — will make all the difference! Remember, it’s not just about reaching your destination. It’s about getting there safely and enjoying the journey along the way. Happy (and cautious) travels!
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