Travel from Raleigh to Lexington VA

Good Day, I'll be traveling from Raleigh to Lexington, VA pulling a horse trailer in my Jeep Gladiator almost maxed out.  Looking for the best route recommendation.  Google Maps has me going up 29 to US 60.  However, I understand US 60 is 2 lanes, winding, and steep.  But I'd rather consider a route less steep.  Does anyone know how pulling along 220 to Roanoke to 81 North is?  What route do you recommend?