America’s 10 Most Dangerous Roads for RV Travel

Driving a motorhome or towing a fifth wheel comes with challenges that a car or small van driver never has to think about. Steep grades, sharp curves, limited turnouts, or even something as simple as a rock tunnel can turn a “scenic drive” into a white-knuckle one. Some roads are so notorious among RVers that they come up again and again in forums and campground conversations. These are the ones that deserve extra caution.

1. Million Dollar Highway (US 550, Colorado)

This stretch between Ouray and Silverton is one of the most intimidating drives in the Rockies. Narrow lanes, hairpin turns, steep drop-offs, no guardrails, and sudden weather make it dangerous for larger RVs.
Alternative: Take US 50 through Montrose for an easier north–south route.

2. Beartooth Highway (US 212, Montana/Wyoming)

High elevation, switchbacks stacked one after another, and grades over 10% make this road punishing for big rigs. Snow and ice are common well into summer.
Alternative: Use US 14 or US 16 across the Bighorns.

3. Independence Pass (CO 82, Aspen to Twin Lakes)

This seasonal road is narrow, winding, and has stretches with no centerline. Long vehicles struggle with sharp turns and cliff exposure.
Alternative: Cross the Rockies using I-70 to the north or US 50 to the south.

4. Ebbetts Pass (CA 4, Sierra Nevada)

Ebbetts Pass looks like a shortcut but quickly turns into single-lane segments and tight hairpins. Larger RVs often get stuck with no room to turn around.
Alternative: Use I-80 or US 50 for a safer Sierra crossing.

5. Sonora Pass (CA 108, Sierra Nevada)

With grades up to 26%, this is one of the steepest passes open to vehicles, as well as having sharp turns and narrow roads. Multiple warning signs advise against long rigs and trailers.
Alternative: Take CA 120 or other major Sierra routes instead.

6. Teton Pass (WY 22, Jackson area)

Steep climbs, sharp curves, and frequent wildlife crossings make this road risky for large motorhomes and towables. Weather adds another layer of challenge.
Alternative: Use US 26/89 through Alpine and Hoback Junction.

7. Needles Highway (SD 87, Custer State Park)

This road is famous for its granite tunnels, but those tunnels are simply too narrow for most RVs. Tight curves add to the problem.
Alternative: Take US 16 or SD 36 around Custer State Park.

8. Moki Dugway (UT 261, near Mexican Hat)

A gravel section carved into a cliff with hairpin switchbacks and no guardrails. Not a good place for high-profile or long vehicles.
Alternative: Travel US 191 north to SR 95 for access to Natural Bridges.

9. Tail of the Dragon (US 129, Tennessee/North Carolina)

Over 300 curves in just 11 miles, heavy motorcycle traffic, and posted restrictions make this a no-go for big rigs. Photo by Milt Putnam, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Alternative: Use US 411 or I-40 for east–west travel in this region.

10. Highway 1 (California, Leggett to Fort Bragg)

This stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway has blind curves, rock walls, and overhanging trees. Long trailers often scrape or swing wide into opposing lanes.
Alternative: Stay on US 101 and branch off with a smaller vehicle to see the coast.

Final Note

Not every driver has the same comfort level. Some people take these roads in 40-foot coaches without issue, others won’t. The point is that these routes are well-known trouble spots for larger RVs, especially under bad weather or when drivers don’t realize what they’re getting into. Research your route, check restrictions, and use an RV-specific GPS or trip-planning app so you know what’s ahead.