Community Forums

Mitchyb · 07-02-2013, 05:56 PM

Hi all I am needing some well traveled travelers advice!! The family and I are packing up the Motorhome with boat in tow and heading to Tonasket, here is my dilemma as I know highway 3 has some nasty climbs that I'm not crazy about I am wondering about heading south over the snoqaulmie pass would be an easier ( highway 2 ) or my other option is highway 20 but have heard that's pretty nasty as well. I realize I am going another 60 miles out of the way taking highway 2 but if its easier on the old gal it will be worth it!! Thanks so much for the help!

theroc · 07-02-2013, 07:45 PM

Actually, Snoqualmie Pass is I-90. Maybe you meant to say, Stevens Pass which is Hwy 2?

Tough call. Yes, both the Crowsnest (hwy3) and the North Cascades (hwy20) highways will have steep climbs and several summits/passes to negotiate. Using hwy2, Stevens Pass, will be the easiest climb of the three and a good road but, as you point out, it's adding more miles.

However, in my opinion, I'd use the Crowsnest as I consider it to be the better road compared to hwy20/North Cascades. It has lots of passing lanes and several places that will be 4-lane roadway. It's also the shortest route.

But I don't know your rig as you do. If you're worried about overheating, etc. because you'll be towing and loaded down to the maximum, I may even consider going to Snoqualmie Pass (I-90). It will really add a lot of miles but will be the gentlest grade and the best roadway as it is a 4-lane interstate completely.

But, Hwy2 over Stevens pass may be the best compromise.

Ack, I'm not being much help here, am I? I'll let others chime in on this one! Good luck.

Mitchyb · 07-02-2013, 07:53 PM

Hey thanks for the response

this darn problem!! I'm so used to a diesel and never had to worry about any hills!! So lets put it this way I'm really not concerned about milage and fuel cost or time for that matter as we are on vacation after all so with that in mind if you narrowed it down to either highway 2 or highway 3 which would you take?

coupevilleDF · 07-02-2013, 08:55 PM

I don't know highway 3 but I would not hesitate to take Stevens Pass with my 35' Workhorse pulling my car. Most of it is a gradual climb until you get to the last grade which is 5-6% grade on each side (6.5 miles on the west side and 3 miles on the east). I have pulled a 35' mid 50s trailer over with a Chev Blazer. Just took my time and used the gears.

I would take 20 as well. Grades are more like 7%, there are more of them and they are longer. Total elevation is about the same. 20 is a lot slower with fewer services but more scenic.