Electric RVing in Oatman and on the Arizona Sidewinder

Jennifer Sensiba’s recent electric RV adventure along Route 66 highlights both the challenges and unique experiences of travelling with an electric truck and trailer in the American Southwest. After leaving California’s Mojave Desert, Sensiba encountered damaged sections of the historic Route 66 in Arizona, forcing a detour onto the interstate. Despite concerns about high-priced charging stations, she found affordable electricity at Electrify America stops, noting the convenience of charging an electric vehicle compared to refuelling with petrol or diesel. A key highlight of the journey was a visit to Oatman, Arizona, a small gold mining town famous for its free-roaming donkeys, descendants of mining pack animals. The town’s quirky atmosphere, with donkeys wandering the streets and a handful of tourist shops, offered a nostalgic glimpse of the Old West. Sensiba advises visitors to spend a few hours exploring and to avoid feeding the donkeys on roadways for safety reasons. The town’s quietness after 5 pm signals the donkeys’ retreat and the end of the tourist bustle. One of the most formidable parts of the trip was navigating the Arizona Sidewinder, an eight-mile stretch of Route 66 known for its steep, narrow, and winding road with nearly 200 hairpin bends. Due to the road’s difficulty and restrictions on vehicle length, Sensiba prudently left her trailer behind at a nearby RV park and tackled the pass with just her electric truck. This decision allowed her to appreciate the stunning mountain views without the stress of manoeuvring a trailer on such a treacherous route. After descending the pass, Sensiba stopped at Cool Springs, a restored 1920s stone service station that serves as a nostalgic landmark despite lacking fuel or charging facilities. The site offered a moment of respite and a connection to Route 66’s rich history, enhanced by the presence of Misty, the friendly resident cat who has become a local mascot. This stop underscored the blend of historic charm and modern travel challenges faced by those exploring the Mother Road today. Throughout the journey, Sensiba emphasised the importance of RV park charging for electric vehicle travellers towing trailers. With a portable EVSE, she was able to recharge her truck’s battery overnight at multiple stops, sometimes reaching full charge after two nights. While fast chargers have become more common, the availability of electricity at RV parks remains crucial for extended trips with trailers. Sensiba also highlighted the need to manage power draw carefully to avoid overloading RV charging pedestals, ensuring a smooth and sustainable electric RVing experience.