Berthoud Pass

[homeless]

Is this pass pretty doable for a green horn mountain driver in an old gasser?

[dnystrom]

I would do it as long it was bare and dry. Same gear going down as going up. Keep an eye on the weather.

[Bondad]

Berthoud has some 180 degree tight turns but it's very doable. I've never had a problem. Red Mountain from Ouray to Silverton is a different story. I did that once but won't do it twice!

[BFlinn181]

I really wouldn't choose this one for a first mountain pass. It's 11,300 ft, high enough to cause altitude sickness in most folks. The grade never gets steeper than 6.3%, but it is a long up and down with many very tight switchbacks. It's considered one of the toughest passes in Colorado.

Most important in driving a grade, pay attention to temperature gauge and RPM, not speed. Keep RPM in best range for torque and to keep the engine cool. Going down, use a lower gear and apply brakes firmly to slow down 10 mph, then foot off the pedal until next application to slow down. Stop often to look around, let engine and brakes cool, and so folks behind don't curse you out.

If you just want to get W on US 40, I'd suggest stay on I-70 until Silverthorne, then go N on CO 9 until it connects to US 40 in Kremmling.

[Busskipper]

Originally Posted by homeless

Is this pass pretty doable for a green horn mountain driver in an old gasser?

First time I did it was a long time ago in a gasser - then again, in a gasser,
Now have done it a few times in the diesel, once with a bit of snow, yes I did slow way down.

IMHO Itt is a Favorite - love it headed North, just something about those long switchbacks - Just Colorado at it's Best.

For some reason we generally go south from Grand Lake or Steamboat on RT 9 - so have only done it from the north to the south a couple times.

So take it easy - enjoy the drive - enjoy the view - then remember to try to do it again. Think you will Enjoy It.

JMHO,