Community Forums

pincherman · 10-07-2020, 10:05 PM

Looking for input on grades/difficulty of driving US-50 south of Reno into Lake Tahoe. Also, the stretch of 50 from below Tahoe to Sacramento. My drive will be happening this week.
I've tried searching to isolate US-50 in these forums but cannot find a lot. I'm sure its out there.
I'm piloting a 40' DP with an 8.9 Cummins (370hp) hauling a 5K lb. toad w/Brake Buddy Stealth. I'm fairly skilled at downshifting/using engine brake and such.
Not sure if I should avoid 50 west of Lake Tahoe to Sacramento and just go north on 89 around the western shore of the lake to join I-80 instead.
Any thoughts on this can go a long way toward helping me.
Thanks in advance.

Arch Hoagland · 10-07-2020, 11:42 PM

I've been over 50 a few times and won't do it again in my gasser.

Downhill will be OK for you in a diesel as you have good engine braking.

I like 80 better.

twogypsies · 10-07-2020, 11:50 PM

OP: It's all downhill and your MH can handle it well if you downshift. We've done it multiple times with our 40' MH towing.

Stranger · 10-08-2020, 12:15 AM

Went over it Sunday in my 1 ton empty, my brother was driving. I would not take it in my Bounder because of a few TIGHT turns near the summit.

Coulter · 10-08-2020, 08:56 AM

From Lake Tahoe to Sacramento, you have only two upgrades. One out of Meyers (Lake Tahoe) and one out of Riverton (near Pollock Pines). The upgrade out of Meyers is one lane each direction, and only a few miles long. There is one very short passing area about 2/3 of the way up the grade. The upgrade out of Riverton to Pollock Pines is two lanes each direction, and several miles long. Otherwise, you are all down grade to Sacramento.

Apple Hill (Camino) is in full swing. Expect delays getting through the traffic signals at Placerville, especially on weekend afternoons (west bound). Delays can be as long as 30-40 minutes on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

HighDesert · 10-08-2020, 02:37 PM

If you are comfortable mountain driving - no big deal. Just have to pay attention and drive / brake accordingly. I've pulled trailers, and big 5th wheels over this route more times than I care and would have no issue taking my MH that route.