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April hiking

Hello and thanks in advance for reading!

Myself and a friend of mine (we’re males in our early 40s) are planning to go hiking in Colorado and Wyoming in the second half of April. We’re told April is one of the worst times to head into the Rockies due to mud, snow, and not much being open, but due to work commitments, it’s then or never. And we’re desperate to go. We’re also lifelong Brits, so miserable weather is a way of life!

We have a few questions:

1. We ideally want to book an RV, but just for comparison, how much cheaper is it to just get a regular old 4x4 and make do with motels?

2. In shoulder season, do you need to book RV campsites early? We figured if the weather is awful, people are more likely to cancel their bookings at short notice, and equally if the weather is great, this makes boondocking much more feasible, so long as we can plug in every 2-3 days. Are we insane?

3. How dangerous are driving conditions during April in this part of the world, and are there any good CA/WY radio stations which keep folks regularly updated about sudden changes?

Many thanks to those who have made it this far! Any other tips would be greatly appreciated.

Planning a hiking trip in Colorado and Wyoming in April can be challenging but also rewarding if approached with flexibility and preparation. Here’s a breakdown of your questions and some additional tips for a successful trip.

1. RV vs. 4x4 with motels: Renting an RV can be convenient for cooking, sleeping, and having a mobile base, but it tends to be significantly more expensive than a standard 4x4 rental plus motels. In shoulder season, RVs may cost anywhere from $150–$250 per night depending on size and provider, while a 4x4 SUV rental could be $70–$120 per day, with motels averaging $80–$150 per night. So, over a two-week trip, motels plus a 4x4 could be roughly 30–50% cheaper than an RV. The RV provides flexibility but also requires dealing with parking, hookups, and driving a larger vehicle on potentially snowy or muddy roads.

2. RV campsite bookings: In mid-April, many popular RV parks in CO/WY are still closed or just opening for the season. Shoulder season can indeed work in your favor—cancellations are more likely, and if the weather is good, boondocking (free camping) becomes more feasible. However, keep in mind:

  • Some campgrounds may still have limited services or be closed entirely.
  • Plug-in spots are scarce, so it’s wise to book at least a few key nights in advance near towns or major trailheads.
  • Boondocking is possible in national forests or BLM land, but always check local regulations and avoid private or restricted areas.

3. Driving conditions: April can bring unpredictable weather—snowstorms, icy patches, and muddy dirt roads. Main highways (I-70, US-34, US-40) are usually well maintained, but secondary mountain roads can be hazardous. Tips for safer travel:

  • Always check the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) road conditions website or their hotline before heading into mountain areas.
  • Listen to local radio stations for updates; in Colorado, stations like 760 AM (KFKA, Greeley) and 850 AM (KOA, Denver) provide weather and road info. Wyoming travelers can tune to 610 AM (KCOL, Fort Collins/NE CO) or local NPR affiliates.
  • Carry chains or be prepared for icy patches, even on sunny days.
  • Consider daylight driving only, as mountain roads can be tricky in low light.

Additional tips:

  • Pack layered clothing and waterproof gear—spring in the Rockies can be very variable.
  • Plan hikes at lower elevations first, where trails may be less snowy, and be prepared for muddy conditions at higher elevations.
  • Check trailhead accessibility—some popular spots like Rocky Mountain National Park may still have limited access or parking.
  • Have backup plans for lodging and driving routes in case of sudden snowstorms.

In summary, April hiking in CO/WY requires flexibility. A 4x4 with motels is cheaper and simpler for unpredictable weather, but an RV offers mobility and comfort if you can navigate mountain roads safely. Book key nights if hookups are essential, and stay informed about road conditions and weather.

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