An overnight MID-OCTOBER SNOWSTORM
Anaconda, Montana October 13, 2025 Monday Morning – change of plans…
As I share my thoughts, it’s nearly Noon. I was PLANNING by now to be pulling out of the Big Sky RV Park in Anaconda. In fact, I should be well on my way to my next destination, Philipsburg. The weather gods had other plans!
Last night, snow started to coat the warm streets (it was 75F two days ago!) It came down heavily enough to whiten the roads (and everything else.) By morning, about 4 inches had collected on my campers steps. The roads were actually snow covered and icy.
Early Season Snow brings additional consequences
My campsite is under a mature willow tree. It normally provides great shade. However, this early season snowstorm weighed its leaves down so my camper is virtually covered by the tree!
Early this morning, I decided to extend my Anaconda stay by a day or so. My next planned destination confirmed that she was virtually empty all week. This decision also allowed me to continue a tradition since my childhood. With the first snow, I always get out as soon as I can and go for a walk. I did so this morning – and it was great. Some of the photos that follow show some highlights…
Reservations can complicate issues
So, I did not make any! Now remember, I’m in Montana and this is clearly OFF SEASON travel. Though, as I have noted, thanks to the overall condition of the economy, even IN season, there were fewer RV travelers. Thus, I rarely had any issues finding space.
I am traveling without reservations to ensure I can make last minute decisions, just like the one I made today. When in doubt at all, I check with a potential RV park and ask if they expect to fill up.
Big Sky RV Park, where I’m currently at knows I may stay up to 2 days extra. They’re fine with the additional income! The park I’m heading to is only asking for a few hours advance notice before my arrival. The park owner simply wants to ensure that she’s on-site when I arrive.
I’m at a stage in my autumn travels where I’m staying only a few nights at each destination. I only have about 3 weeks of travel before reaching my winter long destination in Idaho. Even though most campgrounds have open space, I always have a “plan B” should space not be available.
I do know the RV parks in (near) Missoula may be full-up this weekend. This is due to a big college football game. My plans? Probably avoid Missoula!
Further Preparations
Water – Tank Levels – Food – all good. This allowed me to make a last minute change in my plans. As of 1pm, the roads are still snowy/icy and the temperature is just 29.
I travel with a fifth wheel pulled by a pickup truck. My truck is a 1 ton equipped with 4wd. I ensure it always has good tires. This allows me to travel about in all but the most extreme conditions. Pulling my trailer however is something I try to do on good roads – especially if my schedule allows.
Need RV Accessories? Here’s my BEST recommendations…
Like my content? Please leave a comment below and sign up for my free newsletter to be notified of upcoming posts.
That’s a really valuable reminder for anyone living the RV life — early-season snowstorms can completely change travel plans in a matter of hours. Being flexible and prepared is key, not just with routes but also with essentials like fuel, food, and proper winter gear. Having a backup plan and checking weather updates frequently can make all the difference in staying safe and comfortable. I was reading about San Diego Limo Service recently, and it reminded me how much reliability and readiness matter in any type of travel. Do you usually travel with alternate route plans, or do you prefer to make changes spontaneously when weather surprises you on the road?