After a land grant in 1844, the RanPaso de Robles (Pass of Oaks) was created.  This ranch land was bought for a mere $8,000 in which  the 26,000 acres was thought to be a “heavenly” area.  While others roamed California to find gold, a pair of brothers and a partner knew this land they had purchased together held the potential they were looking for.  Years later some of the partners would settle into ranching while others would invest in building a town site.  One of those interested and vested in part of the town site purchase was Drury James, uncle to the infamous Jesse James.  

Who knew that this land would one day be full of vineyards – growing gold on vines?  Paso Robles   being developed in wine country, now sports over 90 vineyards in the region.  A delicate balance between limestone, shale, clay, sand, and year around stable weather is the perfect setting for the best grapes and their valuable juice.  Hence any trip to Paso Robles is worth getting there, no matter how you do it.  Whether by car, RV, or RV pulling your toad, just get to Paso Robles for an adventure unlike any other!  While we’re talking about where to begin our RV travel adventures, let’s talk about where to stay.  Wine Country RV resort is one of the newest RV destinations.

Surrounded by more than 100 winery tasting rooms, public and private golf courses, beaches, lakes, shopping, and fine dining, you’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully.  For those fortunate to have an extra set of wheels to get about in the California traffic, it will make the difference in how exhausting trying to make reservation times,  and attempting to “see it all” while on your vacation will be.

For those of you who are new to RV’ing and pulling a tow vehicle (dinghy, toad) before encountering the California terrain, mountain roads, and bumper to bumper traffic there are a few towing details you’ll need.  For a safe towing system, make sure you have the proper hitch, tire inflation and anti-sway devices. And for the best trailer/tow vehicle match, consider these factors:

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• Engine horsepower
• Transmission and axle capability
• Cooling equipment
• Suspension
• Springs and shocks
• Power brakes
• Power steering

You’ll find much of this information on websites dealing with RV’s, in RV magazines, and also from your RV dealership especially anywhere the RVIA logo is posted.  For 2007, Motor Home magazine has listed a number of appropriate towing vehicles which can be towed flat (with all four tires on the ground).  These vehicles vary in size, weight, and function; however, the one thing in common is they make good vehicles to drive around to your local excursions while leaving your RV in place, hooked up at your campsite.   To get detailed information on the 2007 report, obtain a copy to get the specifics for each auto model and check out RVTravel.com  

 How refreshing it is to come back to camp and with a minimal of activity settle down for a rejuvenating night of sleep after a busy day of fun!

Many of these vehicles are limited to the front wheel drive base along with standard transmissions for bumper towing.  Yet, there are a few which we will discuss that are automatic and can be bumper pulled.

Jeep Wrangler – the 2007 models are improved in many ways from a stiffer frame, increased ground clearance, stronger axles, and a new locking device with an electronic disconnect front sway bar.  To our delight, both automatic and manual transmission models are towable. 

Dodge Nitro – an all new designed SUV mid-size, five passenger with folding first and second row seats and adequate cargo space offers the four wheel drive SXT model as towable.

Honda CR-V – a new look, more aerodynamic and quite curvy!  Available in front wheel drive and all wheel drive (both towable), and only offers a five speed transmission. Hyundai Santa Fe -   this model features a longer wheel base which mean more interior room.  Only the 183 HP, 2.7 L, five speed, is towable.

Suzuki SX4 – is another favorite towable vehicle.  Subcompact, all wheel drive,  and a five speed manual transmission is the only model that is towable.

Nissan Versa – more subcompact to impact the market.  Only available for towing in manual transmission only.

Toyota Yaris – most economical, non-hybrid alternatives dinghy certified with manual transmission only.

Ford Escape Hybrid – a full hybrid which can run on engine, electric, battery power, or both.  Small SUV, this vehicle can travel 400 – 500 miles on one tank of gas.

So whether you are just daydreaming, or planning your actual vacation, now you’ve been given valuable information to help plan a great trip.  I’ll be seeing you down the road and admiring your toad!  Happy Traveling!