Forum Discussion

Explorer

Sep 21, 2013

North Carolina Mountain Driving

Hey guys, we recently ran our camper (2003 Yukon xl, 1500 and approx. 6100 lb trailer) up to Burnsville NC. We got off at 226 because that is how the GPS took us and boy was it a surprise. 14% grade for 3 or 4 miles with switchbacks (found out after we made it to the top). 1st gear and about 25-30 miles per hour up it, foot was about 1/2 to 3/4 to the floor. Engine temp never moved though. Man that was fun. I don't know how we would have come down though.

We left the camper up there and are going to be bringing it to boone, has anyone ran the 19E to 181 to 221 to 105 route? How is it?

Also, when coming out of boone there is a 8% grade for about 4 miles, should I just gear down to 1st or second and use the trailer brake to slow me down? I've never done this in a camper before.

24 Replies

DutchmenSport
Explorer
Sep 21, 2013
When I lived in the foothills of NC years and years ago, I loved driving those mountain roads on my motorcycle. I cannot imagine doing some of them now, with my truck and TT... You've got more guts of steel than I do.
wmoses
Explorer
Sep 21, 2013
Also don't forget to put on your 4-way flashers while coming down.

Does your TV have tow-haul mode on the tranny?
romore
Explorer II
Sep 21, 2013
I bet that was entertaining. Coming down a stiff grade, make sure the controller is properly adjusted, gear down at the top and use your service brakes lightly to keep things out of white knuckle territory. Don't rely on the trailer brakes to stop the vehicle too.
WoodGlue
Explorer
Sep 21, 2013
Just out of curiosity, what GPS are you using? Is it one that you can input your RV info?

Whenever you can, always let the engine of the car do the slowing for you, so yes, when coming out of Boone, gear down.

Thanks,

WoodGlue