Roam the Range: An RV Journey Through the Mountain West

Coalville, UT

Right off Interstate 80 just 25 minutes north of Park City, UT is the town of Coalville. It’s one of those blink-and-you-might-miss-it places, so make sure to set your GPS!

Treetop Ropes Course

The Echo Valley RV Resort's Treetop Ropes Course ended up being one of those unforgettable family adventures that had all of us—kids and adults—laughing, wobbling, cheering, and high‑fiving in the trees. After a quick safety tutorial and getting geared up, we headed into the treetops where five zip lines sent us soaring 30 feet above the ground, grins plastered across every face.

The obstacles tested our balance, courage, and teamwork in the best way. We giggled through the shaky bridges, encouraged each other across the tougher sections, and celebrated every little victory. By the end of our 90‑minute climb, every one of us—from ages 7 to 40—felt that awesome mix of tired legs, full hearts, and the pride of accomplishing something big together.

Eagle’s Nest

Additionally, the kids’ play area, called the Eagle’s Nest,  is a wild, bouncy 1,500 square foot ropes and trampoline play haven! It's positioned for safety for almost all ages and is suspended up in the air for maximum view, fun and laughs!

Historic Downtown

If you’re craving a bite or a sweet treat, Coalville’s historic downtown—once a bustling mining hub in the late 1800s—offers a surprisingly delicious lineup for a town of just 1,500. Main Street is completely walkable, lined with old brick buildings and friendly locals who make you feel right at home. The Mix Place is our go‑to for morning fuel, serving smooth espresso drinks, fresh pastries, and hearty breakfast sandwiches that hit the spot before a day of exploring.

Just down the street, Annie B’s Pizzeria dishes out some of the best pies we’ve had on the road—think perfectly crisp crusts, generous toppings, and favorites like their classic pepperoni or the fan‑favorite BBQ chicken. It’s small‑town comfort food at its finest, wrapped in mountain views and Coalville’s quiet, historic charm.

Bear Lake, ID

Less than two hours from Coalville is Bear Lake, ID, one of the West’s most beloved RV destinations. Nicknamed the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its shockingly turquoise water, this lake draws RVers from all over the country who come for the views, the beaches, and the easygoing mountain vibe. With multiple RV parks on both the Utah and Idaho sides, you can park your rig steps from the shoreline and wake up to glassy blue water framed by rugged peaks.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake allows you to instantly slow down the moment your eyes take in that unbelievably blue water. With wide, shallow swimming areas, soft sand, and long stretches of sunny shoreline, it’s the kind of lake where kids can splash safely, adults can float for hours, and everyone feels the stress melt away.

Because the lake is split between Utah and Idaho, you can literally hop on a paddleboard or rent a boat and glide across state lines—one of those simple joys that makes the day feel a little more magical. The water stays cool, clear, and almost impossibly blue, and the locals are as warm as the summer sun. We loved swimming from one of the public beaches, soaking in the mountain views, and wandering through the small towns scattered along the shore, each offering its own charm, treats, and laid‑back lake‑life vibe.

Cooper’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for a great meal with a view, Cooper’s Restaurant at Bear Lake West is a must‑visit—just across the Idaho border. The food is as impressive as the scenery, with favorites like their signature fish and chips, Cooper’s burger stacked high with bacon and cheddar, and fresh salads topped with local trout. Grab a seat on the patio and you’ll be treated to panoramic lake views that make every bite taste even better. Fun fact: Cooper’s is known for its lively summer evenings with live music and a friendly local crowd, making it one of the most memorable dining spots around Bear Lake.

And of course, no trip here is complete without indulging in a Bear Lake raspberry shake—a local legend. You’ll find them at plenty of restaurants and ice cream shops, but after asking around, we discovered the Bear Lake Chevron on Logan Road serves up massive, creamy shakes bursting with sweet‑tart raspberry flavor. You might wait a few minutes for your order but trust us—it’s worth every sip.

Adventure‑seekers come for boating, fishing, and long days on the water. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or simply soak in the scenery, Bear Lake delivers that perfect blend of beauty and simplicity that keeps RVers returning year after year.

Alpine, WY

Alpine, WY is the kind of place that makes you think about extending your trip. It’s the perfect finale to a mountain road trip, a town wrapped in rugged peaks and river canyons where adventure feels endless. J

Alpine, WY

Located just 30 minutes from Jackson Hole and a touch farther from Grand Teton National Park, you’re suddenly surrounded by 3.4 million acres of protected wilderness—the kind of landscape where you don’t wonder what to do, you wonder what to do first.

We chose Alpine Valley RV Resort. Located on the Snake River, it’s a full-service luxury resort with some of the most breathtaking 360-degree views.  With the Palisades Reservoir literally brushing the edge of town, Alpine offers a full menu of outdoor fun: boating, paddling, fishing, and some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. The town sits at the meeting point of three stunning rivers—the Snake, Salt, and Greys—creating a natural playground for anyone who loves being outside. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, soaking in mountain views, or just breathing in that crisp Wyoming air, Alpine delivers the pure, untamed nature vibe that makes RV travel feel magical.

Snake River

During our visit, the hands‑down highlight—the moment that will live in our family’s memory bank forever—was whitewater rafting the Snake River. We booked with Dave Hansen Rafting, and the experience couldn’t have been easier. A shuttle picked us up right at the RV resort, and after a quick safety briefing and getting geared up, we were off to the launch point, buzzing with excitement.

Because the river was running high, the rapids were powerful and fast, giving us the perfect mix of adrenaline and pure joy. We crashed through waves, laughed until our sides hurt, and held on tight as the guide steered us through the famous Snake River canyon. Our 8‑year‑old daughter and 11‑year‑old son declared it “the best time ever,” and honestly, we couldn’t disagree. By the end, every one of us had soaked hair, tired arms, and huge grins that lasted the rest of the day. It felt like one of those rare experiences where the whole family is fully present, fully alive, and fully connected.

If your crew loves adventure, this is a must. And if you prefer something calmer, the RV resort also rents paddleboards—perfect for exploring nearby lakes or even gliding across the water in Grand Teton National Park. Just check ahead to see if a permit is needed. Either way, you’ll walk away with memories that stick.