Forum Discussion

WrightOn's avatar
WrightOn
Explorer II
Aug 04, 2015

Colorado Driving

With the 2015 vacation behind us, plans for V2016 begins. We are considering a trip to Colorado. However, with the age of the 1999 7.3L PSD (125,000 miles), I'm concerned with the mountains. She handled Wyoming 16 very well in 2010, but that "only" 9,500 feet at the top of Powder River Pass.

I don't have exhaust breaks and don't plan on installing any as 95% of our trips are in the flatlands of the midwest. We are looking at going counter-clockwise from Denver to Ouray to Colorado Springs (and the little towns in between).

1. Should I be concerned with the truck and the elevation of Colorado?
2. Should I leave the combo at home make this trip a van/hotel trip?

I appreciate the insight you will add.

Brian
Roads and Routes
  • 2lazy4U's avatar
    2lazy4U
    Explorer
    Aug 04, 2015
    There are lots of ups and downs, but also lots of places to pull over and stop. I wouldn't worry too much about it - you can always gear down and take it easy. Colorado roads are generally very good and lots of freeway miles where you're thinking of going. Even the non-freeways are generally wide and well maintained.
  • agesilaus's avatar
    agesilaus
    Explorer III
    Aug 04, 2015
    You will have to make the decision yourself. But Colorado west of Denver is all ups and downs. You will regularly see 6-8% grades. And depending on where you go maybe even steeper grades. We just came back from there a couple weeks ago tho we spent most of our time in Montana. We hit some 14% grades along the way but we seek out back country roads. We spent 10 days in the Cortez area a year ago.

    The scenery is spectacular and there are a lot of great campgrounds and national parks.

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