Roadtrips are the quintessential American vacation, with summer destinations like Grand Canyon National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Yosemite National Park.
But what if you want to take a roadtrip and get off the beaten path?
Like, really far off the path even.
Like, “you would be happy not to see anyone else for days” far.
There are some key things you need to keep in mind when planning a backcountry roadtrip.
Planning a Backcountry Roadtrip
Everyone plans differently, and you may try a few different plans before settling down on a solid routine. Below, I share some of my tricks for planning a backcountry roadtrip.
- Know your car’s limits. This one is the most important thing I can recommend before taking off down national forest roads. While some people will tell you that you need 4wd to get everywhere, an AWD with suitable ground clearance will suffice. However, there are plenty of forest roads that are just fine, if a little bumpy, for cars! I’ve seen it, people have done it. Just know what your car can handle.
- Pick a location that inspires you. Don’t just settle for the closest place – pick a place that calls to you. If you’re going to be alone in the backcountry, you want to see sights that leave you in awe.
- Download an MVU map for your destination. Motor vehicle use maps (MVUMs) tell you where you can drive in national forests, what roads are seasonally closed, and where dispersed camping is. They are usually broken up by ranger districts, and you can pick them up for free at the ranger station.
- Visit the ranger station before you find a camping spot. I do this on every trip I take! This is a great way to let someone know where you’ll be, and rangers provide good intel on the best camping sites. You can pick up other maps from the ranger station, as well.
- Do a pre-trip packing run through. Roadtripping in your car can get pretty cramped. If you’ve never taken a solo backcountry roadtrip, you likely have no idea what all you will need. Pack everything ahead of time, load it up, and see how everything fits.
- Plan your meals ahead of time. After the views, camp food is the best part of any roadtrip. Try cooking a few meals at home to see how easy they are to prepare. Take food that you love to eat and plan to take an extra day of food just in case something happens.
- Take everything in stride. Things will go wrong! You will get stuck in traffic, the ranger station might close early, and you may have a hard time finding a camping spot. That’s okay! You’re on a roadtrip. Things happen and you will need to be flexible.
- Have a backup plan. Just in case you can’t find a dispersed camping spot, have a backup plan for camping at night. I highly recommend the iOverlander app. It is a great resource for finding free camping sites. You may be stuck sleeping in your car, but you’ll wake up to a beautiful sunrise.
Planning a backcountry roadtrip doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little bit of pre-trip planning, you can have a wonderful experience in national forests and on public lands.
Miranda and Violet Travel Updates
Violet and I are headed out on a roadtrip next week or so! We’re headed to Pagosa Springs and I can’t wait! We’ll be camping in the San Juan National Forest, so long as there is adequate camping. I’m looking forward to a break!
Want more roadtrip tips? Follow my blog! Safe travels, friends!
Miranda Writes 