After an epic cross-country journey, we finally arrived back at our property, ready to face one of our most nerve-wracking challenges: towing the RV up our steep gravel road. Having learned from past mistakes, we took every precaution to ensure a smooth process this time. Here’s a recap of our trip and how we tackled the road that previously brought us to a halt.
The Journey Back Home
Our trip home began with multiple travel days and stops along the way, giving us a chance to rest and recharge before the big challenge ahead.
- Great Escape RV Park, Higginsville, MO Our first stop was the Great Escape RV Park in Higginsville, Missouri. This quiet and convenient location provided the perfect spot to relax and prepare for the next leg of our journey.
- Camp Lakewood Campground, Effingham, IL After another day of travel, we reached Camp Lakewood Campground in Effingham, Illinois. The charming campground was a great midway point for rest, offering peaceful surroundings and friendly vibes.
- Ohio Visit We then made our way to Ohio, where we spent quality time with family. Visiting for a few weeks and creating memories, we had a great time before tackling the final stretch, which would include our gravel road!
The Steep Road Challenge
Once back in the Smokies, it was time to face our steep gravel road. The last time we attempted this climb, we got stuck, creating a logistical nightmare. Determined not to repeat history, we took extra precautions:
This time around, learning from our previous experience, we arranged for a tow truck to wait at the top of our hill. This was a critical step, ensuring immediate assistance if needed since getting around our stuck rig is not possible. Yes, we did get a truck around us last time, but we had more room since I’d jack-knifed the RV into the ditch! We don’t want to repeat that part of the exercise!
We also unloaded the motorcycle to put more weight on the pin (and the rear axle of the truck). We also had empty tanks and new (more aggressive tires).
With the tow truck ready and the plan in place, we began the climb. It was looking good at first, but gravity and poor friction got us again! But, even with the failed climb, this still marked a significant victory for us, proving that preparation and lessons learned can turn a daunting challenge into a rewarding experience. That’s code for: we used the tow truck again.
Looking Ahead
Now that we’re settled back home, we’re excited to take a breather and prepare for future adventures. This journey was a reminder that even the most intimidating challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and a bit of extra help.
Stay tuned as we share more about our next steps, upgrades, and travel plans. Until then, happy RVing!
Related 🎥
Links 🔗
- The Great Escape RV Park: greatescape-camping.com/
- Camp Lakewood Campground: www.camplakewoodcampground.com/
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