When Does the Snow Start In North Idaho? (Sandpoint: campground, legal)

[Kchula-Rrit]

We have a 32-foot Winnebago that we're thinking of taking to the Sandpoint area, around mid-December. The goal is to do the trip before the snow flies. Is that realistic?

The route would be up US-97 up central Oregon to the Interstate (I-84, I think) along the Columbia River, or up US-395 in eastern Oregon.

Comments would be appreciated.

K-R.

[volosong]

Probably not the best idea. Expect snow, and ice, especially in the higher elevations and shady spots. Stick to the interstates and 395, which are plowed, but will be temporarily closed due to winter storms and/or high winds. They will plow snow on the major highways, but there's not much they can do about the ice. Secondary and tertiary roads are passable, but not plowed as often. Don't expect to maintain the legal speed limit. Maybe half that. Don't think I'd have the cojones to try it in a 32-footer. That's AWD/4WD season.


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[Kchula-Rrit]

Thanks for the response. We'll have to give it some more thought. Probably have to wait until spring. Sigh. K-R.

[banjomike]

Originally Posted by Kchula-Rrit

Thanks for the response. We'll have to give it some more thought. Probably have to wait until spring. Sigh. K-R.

Smart idea.
December is a very unpredictable month.

More than once, I've begun a trip in bright morning sunshine and have driven into the teeth of a blizzard by 3 in the afternoon. You just never know what's waiting on the other side of the mountain in December.

[Dangerous Dave]

Dunno where you're leaving from, but if you'd like a nice RV trip in mid-December I'd try the Central Oregon Coast, or even Oregon wine country. This area of the country is just too unpredictable and mountainous for an RV.

[Kchula-Rrit]

Thanks, everyone. Winnie won't be seeing Idaho until spring. Would April be good?

K-R.

[banjomike]

Originally Posted by Kchula-Rrit

Thanks, everyone. Winnie won't be seeing Idaho until spring. Would April be good?

K-R.

Yes. April will be a very good time to come up, especially later in the month.

[NW Crow]

Mid-December it is likely to be around 40 degrees for the high. Rain or light snow that melts. Most campgrounds closed or no services except maybe a rare, close to town private one.


In April some private campgrounds may be open but many public and private may still be closed. More likely open in late April than early but more likely still after May 1 or May 15. April will usually see temps up to mid 50s. Snow probably gone or mostly gone at low elevations but probably still there above 5,000 feet until May or June.


If you are cold hardy or don't mind boondocking come in April or even December. If you want nice weather for fishing / hiking and campground choices, come in May or June.