That will keep you out of the really high stuff but you will be in the really warm stuff in the summer. one thing to think about is these new trucks have very capable cooling systems compared to older versions so long grades don't really cause any heating.

We have traveled in the mountains so much in the last 30+ years that the high mountains aren't a big deal for us but we plan our trips to take the high passes during daylight. By bypassing the high Rocky Mountain passes you will miss some of the most beautiful scenery in this country. One of the most scenic drives we have taken was on 95 in Utah on our way to Capital Reef.

Denny

 

I'm with Denny on this one that you'll miss some beautiful views. You're 6.2 won't have a problem and thesee transmissions are pretty sweet working along with the engine. Taking you up and coming down a mountain.
I'm originally from the east and remember my first trips through the Rocky's with the '08' V10 pulling the 5th wheel (14k+) slow and steady and some views that are just fantastic.

 

I agree also.. will be missing ALOT..

Independence Pass. and a few others... I went over several times.. just to SEE everything. but not with a trailer.

and a side trip.. Aspen mountain roads a also a must if time allows..
and outside of Leadville Co. I stayed at the Leadville campgrounds.
like having a snowball fight.. in 80 degree weather in July.. at 11,000 feet.
park on side of road,, walk up 200 feet to snow on ground.. have at it.


I so enjoy my new flat bed scanner... 35mm slides to digital..

 

I should clarify that I have been on a lot of the routes before in a car and in the air . I know what you mean, they are great.

 

I always drive around Denver... by way of Wyoming

 

This is a shot from hwy 12 going from Capital Reef to Bryce NP, most of it 7 to 9K altitude but some 12% grades, made the 6.2 grunt a few times pulling the trailer

Denny

 

When I was a kid we took a road trip from Texas to California and my dad took us through Jerome which was pretty awesome. Five of us loaded down in a 77 or 78 or 79 Econoline van.

 

Your truck will do it just fine...dont let me discourage you with my comments, just want you to know what to expect with the 6.2. I agree you will miss some beautiful country if you dont go over the mountain!!

 

Of all else fails you have 1st gear and I will guaranty you will not stop a 6.2 in low gear .

Denny

 

Update

Trip is now booked and we will be going eastbound on I70 over the pass.

Will report back after the trip this summer

Thanks for all the encouragement...LOL My Boss wants me to take his F350 6.7 dually. I told him it would not make this 4100 mile 3 week trip without breaking...hope I don't eat my words...LOL

 

Enjoy your trip should be awesome!!

 

Might want to check out this app - or book . . .

Mountain Directory for Truckers, RV, and Motorhome Drivers

 

Sounds like my 1980 bronco with a 300 six and np435. It can do anything in granny first.

But it might be at two miles per hour.

 

Thank you. We are going west for 3-4 months.

 

Looks like something I would get some use out of