Lurray Caverns, taking Rt. 211 from New Market??

[Ken-55]

We'll be taking a trip this August from the northeast down to SC, a large portion of it on I-81. In looking at our route and possible short side trips, I noticed that we're heading by the Lurray Caverns. I've been there many years ago, but the SO has never seen any caverns.

I'm a little concerned about going up and down the hills . . . anyone know how bad it is on Rt. 211 between New Market and Lurray? Couldn't help noticing that there's a "Run Away Lane" on the map!

[GaryKD]

Hi Ken-55,
There is nothing any coach can't handle on RT 211. Your are correct, it is basically an up and a down to get to Luray. I've made the trip several times. I will make it again this summer.

If you plan on leaving I81 at Wytheville and taking I77 South into SC, the last 7 miles in VA is Fancy Gap mountain. It is a 7% 7 mile down hill grade. Consider the RT 211 grade as a warm up for the I77 run into NC. FYI, it sounds worst than it is. 7% down grade driving skills should be in every driver's resume.

It is roads like these that prepare us for the Great Smokey Mountains and the Rocky Mountains.

Going up hill, let the engine and tranny decide what gear to be in. Watch your RPMs and temp gage. Keep the RPMs up and the temp should stay acceptable. Note which gear and speed you went up the hill in.

Going down hill, at the crest of the hill down shift to the same gear you went up the hill. Let the tranny and engine keep the coach at a speed you are comfortable with. If you need to use the service brake, stab the service (like the Hitchcock movie) brake to slow the coach quickly. Then let the tranny and engine take over again.

[RVThere]

Just be careful when you come off I81 at Exit 264 and have to travel through the town of New Market. A tight right and left through town but then you are home free. You should have no problem with your rig.