On Sunday, July 28, I embarked on a 5-day adventure in a Sprinter Mercedes campervan, and I couldn’t have been more excited! The onboarding process was seamless, with a thorough walkthrough of all the van's incredible features. I was amazed by everything it had to offer—there’s so much packed into this compact and functional home on wheels.
The campervan includes all the essentials, like a built-in gas stove, a well-sized refrigerator, and plenty of storage space with sleek cupboards for personal items. One of my favorite features is the built-in trash can, which keeps things tidy on the go. It also has a 10-gallon water tank and a 20-gallon shower in the back—complete with hot water! There’s something about having hot water in the wilderness that makes the experience feel a little more luxurious. The shower has a moveable spray, perfect for washing up, as long as you can find a private spot.
One of the coolest features is the retractable awning that transforms the campervan into a shaded outdoor living space—essentially turning it into a porch wherever you go, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views.
The campervan also comes with a built-in heater, which is a game changer. It’s incredibly easy to use—just press a button, and you're all set. This heater runs on the same diesel fuel as the engine, using less than half a gallon per night. It kept me warm and toasty during those chilly mountain nights when temperatures dipped to 30 degrees. I loved that I could wear regular pajamas instead of bundling up in camp layers like I would in a tent.
The backseat is also well-equipped, with seatbelts for four and multiple USB ports and electrical outlets—ideal for charging devices or even working remotely. It’s amazing to be able to stay connected to work while immersed in nature, allowing for greater flexibility.
As for driving, I was impressed by how well the van handled. Despite its size, it was easy to maneuver on winding mountain roads and even on gravel, making it perfect for reaching those off-the-beaten-path dispersed camping spots in national forests.
On the first day of my adventure, after stocking up at Costco, I drove 2.5 hours to an incredible dispersed campsite on a hillside overlooking Twin Lakes and the majestic Sawatch Range in central Colorado. The snow-capped peaks in the distance were stunning. I stayed there for three peaceful nights, enjoying the solitude and reconnecting with nature. During my stay, I visited a dear friend who recently launched a canoe and kayak business at Twin Lakes.
This spot was perfect for self-reflection, journaling, and meditation. The serenity of the mountains combined with the beautiful landscape made it a truly restorative experience.
On July 31, I continued my journey by driving over Cottonwood Pass, a route I’d never taken before. The scenic drive led me to the breathtaking Taylor Reservoir and canyon, and from there, I made my way to Crested Butte. I found a great camping spot at Washington Gulch, a popular area with other campers but with stunning views and an inviting atmosphere.
The next day, I hiked a nearby trail that was bursting with vibrant wildflowers, especially the beautiful yellow varieties that are common in late July and early August. From the trail, I could see Castle Peak and the Maroon Bells of Aspen in the distance—close by, yet still a three-hour drive away.
The weather throughout my trip couldn’t have been more perfect. While Colorado faced heavy monsoons and stormy weather in the following weeks, I was fortunate to enjoy clear blue skies and sunshine the entire time.
Crested Butte in the summer is a must-see, especially if you visit during mid-July when the wildflowers are at their peak. The combination of stunning natural beauty, perfect weather, and the freedom of van life made this part of the trip truly unforgettable.
This campervan adventure was the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, and I can’t wait to see where the next journey takes me.
