395 North Barstow to Tahoe under 460 V8 power
This question was just asked by a guy with a DP. I was planning on taking the same trip next spring in my 460 V8 powered 33’ Holiday Rambler pulling a Dodge Caravan on a tow dolly. How doable is this ...
Forum Discussion
Actually 395 doesn't go through Barstow. You will have to take 58 west out of Barstow over to Cramer Jct. (4-corners) and then north on 395.
There are two pretty steep grades you'll have to climb. One right out of Bishop (Sherwin's Grade) and the other just north of Mono Lake (can't remember the name). Sherwin's is about 5-6 miles long and probably at least 6%. Other is also about 6%, but not as long. Other than those two, should be fairly easy sailing for you.
However, not to be argumentative, but I've never know any gasser motorhome that has a larger than 5000 towing capacity and most only have a 3500 capacity. A Caravan and tow dolly has to be real close to or over 5000 lbs. Going up those long grades you might expect overheating problems as in September, the daytime temps will probably still be in the high 80's to low 90's. Sherwin's grade does have radiator water available in a couple of turn outs...just in case.
I agree tho, that this drive is one of the best in California; we go up/down it at least twice a year and each time marvel at its beauty. There is a fairly decent rv park in Lone Pine (Boulder Creek), two in Bishop, one (plus campgrounds) in Mammoth, Lee Vining and Gardnerville, so you shouldn't have any problems finding places to stay overnight if you want.
Good Luck
Ron
There are two pretty steep grades you'll have to climb. One right out of Bishop (Sherwin's Grade) and the other just north of Mono Lake (can't remember the name). Sherwin's is about 5-6 miles long and probably at least 6%. Other is also about 6%, but not as long. Other than those two, should be fairly easy sailing for you.
However, not to be argumentative, but I've never know any gasser motorhome that has a larger than 5000 towing capacity and most only have a 3500 capacity. A Caravan and tow dolly has to be real close to or over 5000 lbs. Going up those long grades you might expect overheating problems as in September, the daytime temps will probably still be in the high 80's to low 90's. Sherwin's grade does have radiator water available in a couple of turn outs...just in case.
I agree tho, that this drive is one of the best in California; we go up/down it at least twice a year and each time marvel at its beauty. There is a fairly decent rv park in Lone Pine (Boulder Creek), two in Bishop, one (plus campgrounds) in Mammoth, Lee Vining and Gardnerville, so you shouldn't have any problems finding places to stay overnight if you want.
Good Luck
Ron
