The Forest River Timberwolf 16ML was a highlight among new RVs introduced in 2024, combining the spacious, boxed design of a destination trailer with the length and weight of a mid-size travel trailer. So, is this hybrid RV with a loft right for you?
Pros
- Covered rear patio
- Residential appliances
- Remote work-friendly living area
Cons
- May be more difficult to tow
- Lacks wardrobe space and exterior storage
Takeaway
The 16ML offers a unique feature-packed space at an affordable price. Ideal for small families, couples, or solo campers for full-time or extended camping.
Overview
Introduced in 2024 to the Forest River destination trailer lineup as a mini loft travel trailer, the Timberwolf 16ML quickly made a big impression with its hybrid design and visual curb appeal. Far shorter than most destination trailers and featuring a unique loft and patio, the 16ML combines the interior height and spaciousness of a destination trailer with some of the size and towability benefits of a traditional travel trailer. At less than 30 feet, it foreseeably fits into most standard-sized campsites, though height clearance may be an issue. Its main attractions include dual lofts, a covered patio, and an impressive array of appliances included with the limited package, such as a dishwasher and a combination washer/dryer. As 2024 was the first model year of the 16ML, it underwent a few changes and updates in the first year, so buyers may see first and second-generation iterations with moderate differences.
RV News awarded the 16ML the 2024 Hybrid Destination Trailer of the Year, and, given its novelty, it has received wide publicity across the industry. But does this unique travel trailer and destination trailer combo pay off in the end? Let’s explore what to expect from the 2024 Forest River Timberwolf 16ML.
Specs
- Length: 27’9”
- Exterior Height: 13’6”
- GVWR: 11,240 pounds
- UVW: 7,109 pounds
- CCC: 4,131 pounds
Towability
The Timberwolf 16ML poses a bit of a conundrum for towing. While the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of just over 7,000 pounds is manageable by a range of half-ton trucks, the square shape and taller height pose additional considerations regarding aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, and wind resistance. A three-quarter-ton truck will be your best bet here. If you are crunching the numbers to determine if your vehicle can handle towing this RV, err on the side of caution.
The 16ML mini loft’s exterior height is among the tallest RVs on the road and at the campsite. When determining your route, you will need the same precautions regarding low bridges and other clearances as you would with a tall fifth wheel trailer.
The Timberwolf 16ML is certainly more towable than a traditional destination trailer. However, the appeal of this RV is its short size and interior comforts, not necessarily its towability. Towing the 16ML will still lower your MPG and may require some white-knuckling in windy conditions. Include the cost of an appropriate weight distribution trailer hitch with sway control in your overall budget.
Interior Comfort & Functionality
Upon entry, tall ceilings immediately distinguish the 2024 Forest River Timberwolf 16ML from similarly-sized travel trailers. The destination trailer frame allows for the unique loft features in the front and back and the panoramic windows reminiscent of larger destination trailers. Unlike other destination trailers, the 16ML is only rated to sleep three—though a fourth is likely possible. Two sleep in the upstairs queen bed loft, while one sleeps on the convertible sofa. You might also repurpose the rear second loft for sleeping or storage. For those looking for an RV to host a big crew, the 16ML may not be the best option.
While the dual lofts, patio, and front living area are eye-catchers, the kitchen and rear bathroom are the workhorses of this RV. The symmetrical kitchen layout is simple and functional: cooking and undermount sink on one side, and the refrigerator and additional appliances on the other, including the washer/dryer combo and a dishwasher. A pocket door grants access to the rear bathroom with a spacious shower and generous linen storage.
Additional interior features include:
- On-Demand Tankless Water Heater
- Supersized Central Air Conditioner with Quick Cool Dumps
- Electric Fireplace in the Upstairs Loft
The difficulty of towing and the available sleeping capacity of the 16ML make this RV great for couples looking to spend extended time at one location, whether for work, vacation, or full-time living. The 16ML is frequently compared to a tiny home—with obvious visual similarities. But buyers must remember that this is still technically a travel trailer, and the manufacturer does not rate it for four seasons.
To get a better idea of the interior design, check out Trish’s walkthrough below:
Exterior Features & Storage
The 16ML’s rear patio, equipped with a sliding glass entry door, will certainly draw onlookers. The patio’s built-in frame and fixed hardware draw comparisons to tiny homes. Built-in speakers and cable hookups provide outdoor entertainment on the porch, which is accessible by solid steps and offers the camper’s only entrance. This is the only entrance to the camper.
Beyond the patio, the exterior of the 16ML is defined by one key feature: large, vertical tinted windows allowing loads of natural light to pour into the loft, kitchen, and living area. The camper does not include a side awning, but it does have an LP quick connect for an outdoor grill and an outdoor shower sprayer with hot and cold water. Both are located towards the front of the trailer, away from the patio.
Notably, the 2024 Forest River Timberwolf 16ML mini loft has the second-highest cargo carrying capacity in the Timberwolf lineup. However, your cargo must be stored inside the trailer, as it does not include any pass through or exterior storage compartments. With this knowledge, you may be more likely to utilize the rear half-loft for storage.
Construction
The 16ML is one of two models in Forest River’s 2024 Timberwolf lineup classified as mini loft travel trailers. These trailers do not include slide-outs like the other destination trailers in the Timberwolf lineup. This may reduce the likelihood of mechanical issues and allow for more frequent towing and travel, but you sacrifice some of the space offered by destination trailers with slide-outs.
Quick-drop stabilizer jacks are located in the trailer’s four corners, offering added stability when walking around inside and on the patio. The 16ML also includes protective metal diamond plating at the base of the front cap to protect from road debris during travel. This dual-axle trailer also comes with aluminum rims for the tires, and some generations have included knobbier, all-terrain-style tires, though this RV is not designed for significant off-road towing. The 16ML is not rated for four seasons, but it does include an enclosed underbelly.
We’ve listed the tank capacities for the 16ML below. These sizes are manageable for two to three people staying in this camper but bear in mind the washer/dryer combo may put additional strain on your tank capacities.
Additional Specs
- Fresh Water: 40 Gal
- Gray Water: 40 Gal
- Black Water: 40 Gal
Pricing & Alternates
Given the uniqueness of the floorplan and its interior space, you may be surprised by its affordability. Just keep in mind that it is not necessarily designed for frequent travel. For most, it will function more like a destination trailer, ideally suited to long-term stays with seasonal moves or permanent campsites for full-time RV living.
The 16ML Timberwolf is in a class of its own, and the only other RV in Forest River’s category of mini lofts is the slide-less, 36-foot Timberwolf 200G destination trailer designed for far more guests. Outside of the Forest River umbrella, consider some of the Timberwolf 16ML’s rival RVs:
Timberwolf 200G
Specs
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 8
- Length: 35’8”
- Exterior Height: 13’6”
- GVWR: 11,275 pounds
- UVW: 8,294 pounds
- CCC: 2,981 pounds
Keystone Hideout 24LOF
Specs
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Length: 28’11”
- Exterior Height: 13’4”
- GVWR: 9,800 pounds
- UVW: 7,295 pounds
- CCC: 2,505 pounds
If this review has you considering a destination trailer or similar, check out the following resources that may help guide your search:
- 2025 Salem RVs
- What Is A Destination Trailer?
- The Best Luxury Destination Trailers
- Types of Towable RVs
Have you seen or do you own the Timberwolf 16ML? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below.
