Alternative to the Grapevine LA to Central Valley

The Grapevine northbound is not too bad. It's an Interstate, meaning you generally won't have a grade of more than 6%. When you descend from the top into the valley just keep your tranny in a suitable low gear (normally the same one that you used to climb) and you will be fine.

Things get exciting when you get off the Interstates and on to state or U.S. Highways. That's where you'll find the challenges.