Steep grade towing

[1A Camper]

Live in Denver so have seen a few hills. Going up is no problem, just watch the temp Gage. As you gain attitude the cooling is less effective.( read thin air)
Coming down, If it your first hill then go slow, slow is good, you will find your comfort zone as time passes. Always start slow on a hill going down.
We see a lot of people that are so tired of going slow up a hill that they start going down hill a little to fast at the start and you will see/smell smoke from brakes, slowing down. Still, it is rare that they do not make it safety down.

[LKicklight]

Our Owners manual also states that the Tow/Haul is not necessary to use on flat level ground roads. Engage the Tow/Haul when transmission begins downshifting to a lower gear, that is the indicator that it needs to be on, also when engaged, the transmission cooling system is also engaged. We have also switched to Royal Purple Full Synthetics in 2500HD, for 160,000 all has gone pretty well.

[kdcamper]

I have done that highway from sides, I feel your thinking about to hard, take a breather. Leave your truck in auto and leave your tow haul on and let the truck do the work. It is a very nice drive and you don't want to miss the scenic drive. The last time we did it going south there was a line up of at least 25 campers in front of us sure took a long time to get there. I think you will do just fine.

Kdcamper 2011 Chev 3500ltcb 6.0l 2013 8329ss tt d.p. - husky centreline & air ride hitch.

[RockyMtnHigh]

OP, we did the ice fields parkway last Canada Day long weekend. We love it up there!

I'm with those in the "let tow/haul mode do its job" club. Just keep an eye on the tranny temp, as ours did get to 100 degrees Celsius at one time. Leave yourself plenty of time to enjoy one of the most beautiful drives around. You do not want to push it on hwy 93, IMHO.

Oh, and make sure to stop at Saskatchewan River crossing for the most expensive expensive gas you may ever find! You probably dont want to risk going all the way from Lake Louise to Jasper on a single tank while towing, and they know it too. Thankfully, they'll top off your tank for somewhere north of $1.75/ liter, and do it with a smile.

Enjoy!

Canonman, those are some great pics!

[Mikeg]

Again, thanks for the tips/advice. KDCamper is probably right, I am over thinking it. Only 3 months or so till camping season here in Alberta. It's minus 30 here today, it seems like a far way off still. Lol. Thanks.

[kdcamper]

Just as cold here to sure would be nice if it would start to warm up. Have a good time and enjoy, it is a nice drive just take your time, and make sure you stop and enjoy.

Kdcamper