Colorado Monarch Pass Winter

[@BirdWhisperer46]

Winter, 1973, I was headed West carrying a load of bedbugs to Salida. Got up to that hairpin turn at about the 6 mile marker, [ it's been widend and got a pullover now], so, about 200 yards up past that turn and looked out the passenger side glass and the side of the mountain was going backwards. WTF, I looked out the drivers side and down into the valley and started turning the wheel. The doors were froze shut, locked, no way out. I turned the wheel more to get the drivers to hit the right side of the road, and just as my trailer wheels went over the edge in a jack knife, my driver slammed into a piece of rock and stopped me, I had both lanes blocked. I got the window rolled down and kicked the door open and got out, just as a huge snowplow came up behind me and the driver jumped out yelling at me to get in and set the brakes. He was pulling a long chain and wrapped it around my trailer wheels, hanging out over the drop off to do it. Somehow he got it tied up, ran back to the plow and yanked that trailer back onto the road and opened up the left lane, just as a logging truck pulling 2 full trailers came roaring past. The driver was hanging out his window, shaking his fist at me. The snow plow pulled me to the top of the pass where that big rest area is and unhooked me and loaded his chain and just left. It took me a couple hours to stop shaking. I try not to think of that day. I'm 73 and glad I'm off the road.

[@justice4896]

Wow😳..I got anxiety just reading this story.

[@scmarine843]

Happy you made it sir.

[@BrodieBr0]

The best drivers in the world are not Indy or Nascar drivers...it is our truckers that work hard every day to haul goods where they need to be so life keeps going as normal. Great video!

[@Fickoch]

Tell that to Sebastian Loeb 😉

[@stefandwoodham]

You're special #short bus

[@doristhomson3082]

so true.

[@paradear]

Brodie, wish the recognition could go into their paycheck, one of the hardest hit trades wage wise in the last 20 years of cutthroat deregulated markets. This used to be a sole provider level job, now.... You wish!

[@Iqbal_sibia]

They are brave souls 💖

[@Jatildy72]

Wish everyone would watch these videos and gain appreciation for the service truckers provide and learn to share the road. Thank you for your service and all that you do to get us all the luxuries we enjoy daily. Bless you and your families.

[@peppers1587]

Thanks for keeping our country moving. Truckers deserve much more respect.

[@ss65615]

hats off to all the 18 wheelers that travel these passes. drive safe..

[@toring61_52]

This so reminds me when I was driving. Brought back a lot of memories.

[@tyronejackson7334]

Thanks brother.

[@2233golf2]

I'd say this man is a very experienced trucker. Very calm and he knows what he's talking about....Still...I gotta say...what a wonderful landscape. Thanks a lot for posting-stay safe out there all you truck drivers!

[@derrickwilson9039]

Now that’s how you should drive a truck,by using caution and having patience! Great and awesome video! God bless!

[@mr.poobah3162]

I truly wonder what has happened to the wonderful relationship truckers used to have with smaller vehicle drivers. We car drivers used to RESPECT truckers due to the extra responsibility they all have. When a trucker passed me I would tap my high beams as an indication to him/her that it was safe to move in front of me. The truckers would do the same to me as a courtesy. It actually made me feel GOOD by treating a trucker with courtesy and respect and get it in return. Truckers are human too, just extra qualified to be on the road. We OWE them additional respect and in most cases I am sure it puts a smile on the trucker's face. Show MORE respect for each other people and it will benefit everyone! Just my humble opinion.

[@jimwilcox741]

Mr. Poobah, as a veteran trucker with 40 years experience I want to thank you for your consideration and respect! May I also extend appreciation for assisting us as we pass letting us know when we are clear, but please don’t flash your high beams. Rather a momentary turning off and right back on your headlights accomplishes the same thing without blinding light filling our mirror. Especially with today’s brighter HID or LED lighting, it is safer for everyone.

[@dale7436]

I also as a long haul driver want to thank you for your help while on the road. I’ll add something else that the former driver did not say and this is a down side to the current truck drivers that on the road now. There are some really bad truck drivers out there that don’t or refuse to be courteous to others who share the road, the only thing that they see is “I have to make miles to make money”. I retired from the road which hurt me because of this new breed of truck driver. Please continue being courteous for those good drivers, they really appreciate you.

[@TheSighphiguy]

because too many McCDL drivers that havent much clue what good driving or respect for others mean. it not JUST the 4 wheelers that have declined.

[@eoleol4750]

This is the respect people used to have for trucker drivers. I was 16 years old driving my Grandmother to California. I was driving in the fast lane at top speed limit. Two trucks in the slow lane at a distance. Then one of the trucks pulled in front of me and slowed my speed. I was mad and inexperienced. My GM was a traveler. She said, "Hold on. Something is wrong". When we went over the hill, there was a state trooper sitting in a speed trap. Now we know companies don't want their drivers getting involved and people act more rude today.

[@OneEphraimite]

As voiced by some here as a response to your comment, I too appreciate the curtesy of decent co-sharers of the road. However, there has been a transformation in the generation where everybody (Truck Drivers and Four Wheelers/ Cars alike) have become impatient and aggressive in their operation of their vehicles on the road, and I know that sometimes people’s personal lives get in their way and they reflect that on the road without care of consequences because many people think that as long as they get their revenge they’re satisfied. I’m also seeing a large amount of four wheelers (Cars) risking the safety of others by playing highway games of intentionally getting in front of truck drivers and slowing down or brake checking them because they get some sort of cheap thrill or a rise out of the truck driver, and this is causing truck drivers to have to slam their brakes or swerve from hitting the car as they speed off in their insidious glee. In some cases four wheelers (cars) are jumping in front of semi trucks and brake checking in order to force the truck to hit them so they can sue the company in order to gain some sort of cash settlement. But drivers be warned, *_Truck drivers are onto you and a large majority are driving around with video recording devices on their windshields recording their trips in order to protect themselves from such false claims._*

[@catman7153]

Beautiful! Kudos to the brave truckers who travel this route every winter!

[@Chesterbarnes1]

This trucker gives excellent commentary, he teaches us as he drives. I've enjoyed his commentary on why, and how, and what gear he is in and why? Excellent. Give us more of this type of teaching please.

[@howardfortyfive9676]

Nice to *see a professional driver such as yourself. Thanks.*

[@bradjamesjames4281]

Howard Fortyfive a professional driver wouldn't be filming with one hand and driving with the other. a real driver would have shut that camera off and drove

[@howardfortyfive9676]

To the back of the bus for you. You can stand on the back bumper slick. Careful now don't be spilling your hot cocoa.

[@psalmsoftheheartministries7103]

Just watch out for those sleepers. Like the one in Wendleton. I know. Got me too.

[@psalmsoftheheartministries7103]

Looks a little like Donner mountain.

[@calio99]

@@psalmsoftheheartministries7103 Donner is a monster. But it's only one pass. In Colorado you have to go through two of them

[@coolhandluke2310]

Thanks for the ride. Beautiful country. Your co-pilot looks relaxed. Take care.👍🇨🇦

[@philsimmons3829]

I thought I was taking a short cut on one of my first trips out west. I was about 23 in 1980. once you get started there's no turning back. NO Jake brake, no mountain experience. To say the least. I WAS TERRIFIED!!!! Now 3 million miles later, still wonder how I made it across that highway that night. Had to be God watching out for me. PERIOD!!!!!!!

[@livefreeordie4850]

Phil you kept your wits

[@rodneycaupp5962]

Was that "short cut" along the Gunnison Canyon ? I was terrified in broad daylight.

[@eoleol4750]

When I first started driving in the 90's, i wanted to take the long cut. Empty flatbed, time to get to shipper. I was leaving Branson, MO or Fayetteville, AR. summer day, full sunshine. Two lane road was nothing but switchbacks. Cars would come around the curve and have to stop to keep from hitting my trailer. Traffic was backed up behind me. Road was so small I had to keep checking the mirror to avoid mailboxes. Using up my hours. Never went sightseeing in a truck again.

[@bigbengamer]

You had skills, you have attention to detail, and you had training. Don't sell yourself short.

[@janellr.n5238]

@@eoleol4750 I live in that area, I know exactly what you mean..

[@theatomicclap5328]

Im from gloucester mass. It used to be a booming seaport, lots of fish,trucks moved 24/7 and it all stunk like fish from the " dehy" plant. Them drivers used to back them trailers around llike it was a giant barn dance ! Truly lmpressive driving skills some of them places are wicked tight and it didnt even slow them guys down.. Remember if your behind a tractor trailer and you cant see its mirrors he cant see you so back off. Always cut them a wide berth the driver wants to get home too ✌🏻️

[@Sean-wj1wu]

Hey driver , thank you for "taking it easy".... and thanks for the wonderful sights !!!

[@edwinkirchgessner7206]

Thank you for the ride driver,,,,when the wife and I travel with the rv, I really enjoy getting in among the trucks and driving along with you folks. Spent the night at Ilani Casino February 2022 and got up around 3:00 am to check on the generator gas and upon opening the rv door a huge blowing of snow whistled inside. By the time we left, around 7:30 am, I had swept off all the head lights and marker lights and completed our pre trip check,there was at least 2 or 3 drivers asking weather we was going north or south we was going south and they all said that that was good because 2 miles north of there all three north bound lanes were closed because of an accident. We thanked them and thought that was really great they let us know of the road conditions. Take care out there and drive safe.

[@ajaxsmart1]

First time I went over monarch was pulling a load of 70 foot long I beams from CFI headed for salt lake I think it was 77 or 78 long time ago. More snow than one YOUNG driver was ready for. Heck I was still learning how to shift two sticks.

[@remainfaithful5546]

My son's college music professor died going over Monarch when a pick-up slid onto his side of the road and pushed his BMW right over the side. Slow down kids. Thanks for this video. Be safe out there. God bless.

[@cho6140]

Oh my lands. Much respect to this guy.

[@KWilP]

I have a kid in college (western in Gunnison) and one who’s graduated from there. I always tell my wife absolutely will NOT drive Monarch pass during the winter. The closest I came to driving in snow through Monarch was mid spring and that was enough for me. This route will not only test your character, it also test your confidence. Kudos for the drivers who drive through this for a living. Not a pass your want to drive like your in a hurry during the winter..

[@OneEphraimite]

Wolf Creek pass in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado gets way worse. My wife and I were running teams in our Semi Truck when we went through it in the winter of 2006 when in our ascent we ran across cars and trucks bogged down on the left and the right of the road as we continued upwards at a 20 mph rate of speed. My wife became so bothered by the amount of vehicles that she jumped in the bunk as I continued forward, then she told me to let her know when it was over, LOL. We finally made it over the hump and when we began our descent the roads weren’t icy or snow packed...just wet, and once we got on flat land again it was smooth sailing with nothing but dry roads ahead of us. Quite the trip that day, but a memorable experience for both of us. Happy trails.

[@r.bee8733]

Cool video..good to hear what truck drivers deal with people driving close and trying to pass in a snowstorm. Awesome for being cool and calm. Beautiful mtn. pass, hope to see it one day.

[@mikehawk8247]

I made this drive in a fall snowstorm in a car, it was a white knuckle drive. I started sliding sideways when coming over the pass at 5mph and drove straight into the visitor center parking lot. I made sure I followed a big rig down. Thanks truckers : you guys are great drivers.

[@itgetter9]

Truckers have saved me on more than one occasion. Nothing but respect for the folks who do this tough job!

[@TimekaBurdette7421]

I really enjoyed watching this. Only was scared when you were showing the cliffs. It made me feel like you were falling down them lol weird but awesome. I would love to live there. I wouldn't never leave. Very beautiful

[@INTERVENTIONALRADIOL]

Thanks for the video. Great learning experience. We just bought our first 40ft. RV with exhaust brakes and this video is sure going to help us manage this type of climbing and going down hill. Just take your time and play it safe. Thanks

[@FirebirdCamaro1220]

Never did this pass, but did the one south of it on CO 114 once (North Pass) when I was pulling a Coca Cola load from Draper, UT to Alamosa, CO. Fortunately, I did it in late June, so no snow

[@LelaE34]

I'm freaking out, sweaty hands and holding my breath, I can imagine how this driver feels. This is nut's. OMG😳😳😳😳

[@seaworthyhammy3084]

Thank you , so much for showing your raid over the road , am just your every day fisherman from Maine and go to sea for 30 days at a time , around 600 miles off the cost ! I a Caption of a 100 footer ,., be safe and thank you of all the over the road trucking i love watching them ,, seaworthy

[@msdodge100]

These truckers deserve all the respect in the world!!!!

[@donaldtownsend4889]

I used to live in the "Springs". I have family on the western slopes and would go visit quite often. Monarch was about the only way over. I remember going over in the middle of a snowstorm passing all the truckers that were pulled over. Not a fun experience. Family in Montrose, Hotchkiss, Paonia, and all over that area.

[@scottnyc6572]

Amazing how quickly the weather conditions change in higher elevations.

[@normandate4495]

To drive these trucks takes a hero, and these are heroes! That big old diesel sounds awesome.

[@guyonamotorcycle1]

Thanks for the ride along. Good stuff.

[@fighting17chicago]

I drove I-80 W in Utah and for some reason they had closed westbound traffic at the merger with I-15. Detour diverted me north on I-15 which is about a 6% grade uphill. There was 4" on the road with ice patches (4am). I locked in the differential and crawled up a few miles to the turn around. Bad part was I was loaded light (>20,000 lbs load). Made for a slip and slide on the way up (untreated road) and I crawled down at about 8 mph in 3rd with the engine brake on medium (no jake). Had to use the trolley brake a couple times to keep me going straight. That was the roughest 30 minutes of my trucking life. Everything else is gravy.

[@grammytammy8462]

I've been driving 2 years. My husband has for 15. I wish he had your calming effect. I would be ok in this, but a little nervous. I'm a patient courteous driver...he is a worry wart and freaks me the hell out. Lol. I love your attitude. I can learn from people like you. I'm subscribing! Lol

[@itgetter9]

Grammy Tammy: Thanks for sharing that. I have deep respect for truck drivers. I hope you and your husband both stay safe out there, especially during the winter months and the summer storms. Thanks for all you do for the rest of us, carrying the goods to keep life going!

[@dirkjanwubbolts798]

Thanks, brother. I did this trip in the freaking hot summer of 1988 from East to West. At 20:00 you see the buildings that used to be a Conoco workshop. I had my old Ford Escort repaired there. New electric fuel pump. Great guys there, great trip over the pass. Car brought me all the way from NY to LA, with hick-ups of course. Greetz from The Netherlands.

[@jeffshultz3883]

Thanks for the ride along! Beautiful country out there but I could feel myself getting anxious. No room for even a slight mistake without guide rail in some of those spots. You're a very skilled driver and courteous too. Thanks again!

[@subtocgnreactions3117]

Man I love driving out that way during winter. There is nothing more beautiful to see.

[@romevicki1]

Thank you so much for a gorgeous ride over the pass....what a good video and narration....you have good nerves and obviously a good driver.

[@snobord38]

Thanks for the video! I used to live in Leadville and love driving the passes around CO! I have traveled Monarch pass a few times heading to Crested Butte and Telluride! It can definitely stain peoples shorts if they are not ready for this. I do remember the death grip on the steering wheel the first time I climbed, and descended Monarch pass in a snow storm!!! I believe they closed the pass not long after I crossed over. I did love your commentary on speed, RPM's, braking and why you drive the way you do. ALL drivers can learn about winter driving by watching and listening to you!!! I lived in Leadville, and traveled back and forth over Fremont pass on HwY 91. 16 miles up from Copper Mountain and I was driving my rear wheel drive 5.0 Mustang home from work. I kept my drive wheel on the stone shoulder going home one night in what was a bad snow storm. I made it 9 miles up with little trouble mainting my speed and RPM's. I came upon another car who did not know how to drive in the snow, and he blocked me out and I had to slow down and ultimately break loose. I had to turn around and drive back down to Copper Mtn and then hitch hiked back home from there. I was not a happy camper!!! Great video and commentary! Thanks for sharing this!!!!!

[@towgod7985]

BLOODY GOOD LAD! I enjoyed your video trendously! I applaud your professionalism by driving to the conditions, your video should be used as a training tool for tractor trailer students. You Sir are truly a KNIGHT of the ROAD!!! Cheers from Canada!

[@duckydrummer6331]

Just stumbled across this video, glad I did too. It was fun listening to the commentary and the great scenery.

[@ddskimmer]

AWESOME BROTHER! NICE JOB! THANKS FOR LETTING US IN ON HOW YOU DO YOUR JOB...GREAT SCENERY! YOUR DOG IS THE BEST!! GOD BLESS!

[@Mikethepumpguy]

I haven't seen this road for over 25 yrs I'll never forget it. Now I drive local and no mountains still got snow though. Thanks for sharing.

[@budstephens7239]

40 plus years out here and I can still remember early I my career commin outta grand junction with 44,00 lbs of onions no jake brake and driving over this pass at night.. talkin to a local trucker on the radio and he was in front of me and he said ok I'm at the top and I asked. Is it snowing up there?.....yeah just a little......., I'll wait for ya he said ......nah you go ahead cause if it takes me a week to get to the bottom so be it .......so here I am a rookie driver with a heavy load......no jake brake.....night time ......never been there before and snowing...... I can still remember to this very day my feet were actually soaking wet by the time I made it down .... so here it is 40 years a few million miles later ...... the first AND last time I trucked across good ole monarch pass !!!!

[@philsimmons3829]

Bud Stephens , your story is almost just like mine. My trip across there almost 40 years ago. I'm 61 still trucking. MANY terrifying experiences through the years. But none like the night I decided to take a short cut through the mountains. It's funny and a great story today but once was enough for me.

[@user-sk9hl7si7l]

God bless all truckers

[@patmac6356]

Simmons summertime only and then with complete blue skys above.

[@RepentfollowJesus]

Never boring in Colorado. Wish you had kept filming. I got to go there twice. We were all over colorado in February that year. Really deep snow and huge icicles everywhere. We did all the passes and avoided I 70. It was amazing. Caught myself leaning away from those severe drop offs in the passenger side. As if it would help! lol My husband had a good laugh at me lol. We were in a dually. Gunnison had ice in town up to the sidewalks. We climbed over deep snow to go into a chinese restaurant in town there. It was night time. My first real snow experience. I was surprised how it didnt feel that cold. We spent the night and woke up to 1 degree. I had on long sleeves and put on a very light jacket. But the entire two weeks we traveled Colorado I never wore a jacket, just long sleeves. I think the snow pack was 17 feet on Wolf Creek. We went snowmobiling. It was pure Heaven. I wish I could do it again. It was years ago. I was so proud of how well they kept the roads cleared. Someone lied to me back in the 80s and told me there were guardrails everywhere. Yeah right! lol I got used to it though.

[@Eagles0690]

Mister, I gotta tell you, I’ve been trucking for 45 years. No way would I knowingly go across that mountain like you just did. No snow, yeah, but not with those conditions. You’re braver than I am. I’ve trucked up in Pa.,NY, in snow, but nothing like this. My ass was drawn up just watching. More power to ya brother. Just pray no rookie tries that. He’ll never make it.

[@patmac6356]

My rookie did it because he blew his exit for moab,ut and Albuquerque. From somewhere west of gunnison I'm looking at the top of monarch pass seeing the clouds and snow enshrouding it I point out the snow falling up there to him and say "don't f_ __ up , don't kill us , definitely don't make a your wife a widow or your child fatherless, if your do any of the preceding three I'll haunt you for eternity ". We make to the top, him white knuckling it all the way I tell him to get the death grip off the wheel and drive with his finger tips so the color and feel returns to his fingers all the while my back is turned to the cliff . We make it to Raton ,n. M. Hit exit for u.s. 64 and he tries to take out the center divider as hes making the turn Onto it, I catch it ,stop him he corrects himself ,pulls in to truck stop ,we change out. We deliver Dallas catch 10hrs much deserved sleep ,then i go into a long in depth lesson between rand McNally's atlas and that f- - - ing GPS then ruthlessly impose the atlas on him for the rest we are out together.

[@briancoulter6042]

I've been a trucker for more than 40yrs,that is some of the most beautiful country.

[@timothybradek3560]

Like on Rain Man, you're an excellent driver, but truly so. Please note this driver's continued updating awareness of his surroundings; as well his professional thoughtfulness of other big trucks and four-wheelers (cars). Also, his calmness and ease in knowing his equipment and experience in all whether environments. It sure can get harry when your tandems come around wanting to kiss your flat mirrors.. fethering the trailer brakes and upshifting hoping to disallow either trailer or tractor jackknifes. If successful in reaching the bottom, one may need their ass surgically removed from the seat; that is, in order to truck on. Truck on big truck and thank you.. great video!!!

[@ryn1010]

I remember driving this route in mid March, 1976, in a 20 FT Ryder truck, loaded to the top, towing a brand new Ford Country Squire station wagon with a kiln in the back of it, in a light snow. I was INVINSABLE!

[@keithwaites9991]

Amazing...I live near the Peak District in England, going eastwards you cross the mountains via the Snake Pass, elevation (roll on the drums)....2000' ...and that's bad enough in winter (it's frequently closed because of snow) but 11000 feet???? The highest point in the whole of the British Isles is not much more than 4000'... hats off to you bro...

[@Carpenterdane]

I drove over Monarch Pass in 1984 in a 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass. It was covered in snow, and was snowing, but had been snow plowed. It wasn't sanded, and just one lane snow plowed. I did fine going up, but used my gears going down. I did experience snow blindness, so I reached in my ashtray and smeared cigarette ash under my eyes, it worked. As soon as I made it to the bottom, there was a jacknifed semi that had just came down before me.

[@bananabicycleseat6796]

Born and raised in Colorado and I still clench my butt cheeks going over some of these passes.

[@Jacsar916]

How bad is it from day to day? Has it been so bad that one has to miss work? I've not experienced this yet

[@bananabicycleseat6796]

@@Jacsar916 Depends on where you live in Colorado. In the city of Denver, we have had two snow days so far this year where one had to miss work or work from home. Generally though, we don't usually have to miss work over the snow. Up in the mountains you don't usually have to drive over the passes in the winter daily.

[@Xfactor84]

Banana Bicycle Seat is Denver filled with a lot of hills to drive or is that just else where in Colorado ?

[@suearmstrong9597]

If your coming back to Denver from a weekend away and need to go through the Aspen ...Vail pass....if its snowing heavy...plan on getting a hotel...if you can find one for the night.....and ski the next morning 🤗....they will CLOSE THE PASSES. Common sense is sometimes in short supply. ALWAYS WATCH THE WEATHER REPORTS IN ANY MTN AREA. 🙄

[@Xfactor84]

Sue Armstrong so not good for trucking right had a job out there never went because I was warned about the snow and hills they got

[@billjobes1851]

Thanks for the ride.Enjoyed hearing you narrate what you were doing along the way to keep the truck safe.

[@achillesjohnson7941]

First, there is way more Monarch then that. Second, I thank you for your respect for safety and other people on the road. I live in Gunnison, the town at the western base of Monarch, and there are times we get 15 accidents in 24 hours. I admire your caution. Monarch is such a dangerous and intimidating road, though after a while you get used to it. Drive safely!

[@walteralvarez8230]

One day I want to go up and down that Pass , thank you for the instructions on doing it safely . Stay safe bro !

[@phillipstahl3957]

Im from Gunnison, been over monarch many times headed for home time. great video! Stay safe out there

[@veritasstrategicsolutions]

I just drove that same road last month. Thanks for sharing it!

[@jhart7304]

Monarch is beautiful any time of the year. Love it in Gunnison, though has changed alot in the last 20 years.

[@rkarins3825]

Sounds like Norm MacDonald :) Gotta love our mountain passes out here in CO...winter, summer, spring or fall.

[@bobsullivan6857]

I did Monarch once....Just once. When this guy says "drop off" he isn't kidding. The camera doesn't come close to showing the true picture. There are vertical cliffs on this road unlike anything you will see anywhere else. Car drivers can learn something about why a truck driver might do what he does. Listen to this guy. Notice the attention he is paying to his speed, lane position, and rpm. He does care about what the cars are doing and he is looking to accommodate their needs as best as he can. Nevertheless, you can bet the cars behind him are unaware of this and they are cussing. One of the reasons he has to run slower is that he cannot use engine braking on a slippery road. That would easily cause the drive wheels to lock up and cause a jack knife. When the road improved, he engaged the Jakes and picked up some speed, having reduced the heat buildup on his brakes. This is a total pro. If this seems boring to you, pay closer attention.

[@alicesbeloved]

Bob Sullivan Thank you for that.

[@jlpolcat13]

Bob Sullivan oh I been monarch and cabbage both in winter are daring and should only be done by crazy truckers and experienced drivers. 10-4 😜🙏😎

[@shannoninalaska]

I would gladly have stayed behind him and drove very slow. BTW, put the damn camera down!

[@rond361]

Bob Sullivan; "There are vertical cliffs on this road unlike anything you will see anywhere else." LOL Turn south off of US 50 on to US 550 at Montrose, CO. The stretch of US 550 between Ouray, CO and Silverton will make your butthole pucker until it turns wrong side out. Going south bound you have opposing traffic and a vertical rock face on the left and a cliff with no guardrail on the right. There are three mountain passes; Coal Bank pass, elevation 10,640 ft., Molas Pass, 10,970 ft., and Red Mountain Pass, 11,018 ft. Near Red Mountain Pass there are 5 mph hairpin turns and turns that tighten sharply after the apex and in a semi you need all of the lanes to make those curves and you can't see if anyone is coming from the other way. In the winter you can't honk your horn or use the Jake brake even if the road is clear and dry because there are 70+ avalanche paths above the highway. When I started driving in 1987 my first trip out west I decided to take a shortcut from Grand Junction, CO to Albuquerque, NM. I lived and I learned that it wasn't a short cut that I wanted to take again. Wolf Creek Pass on US 160 isn't a walk in the park either.

[@mentallyilldarkjeroid5378]

People should buy my "Impact" a James Grider novel on Amazon and linked in my videos enough times so I can afford to move to live in a snowy forest like that.

[@dr.skulhamr3220]

I loved the narration and the showing of gages as you go. Excellent fun to watch.

[@kevineubanks859]

Anyone notice that whenever he looked over the side of the mountain the dog kept looking at him like will you please keep your eyes on the road lol. Poor doggie.

[@jklxn]

your voice reminds me very much of an airplane pilots...very calming and soothing. good driving

[@pointingdog7235]

Be polite be professional....

[@shaggydog563]

I thoroughly enjoyed the Ride along thank you very much for the trip God bless and stay safe.

[@paul9114]

Good instructional video. Flat land truckers just freak out when they see snow in the mountains. I think it's easier to do than driving in a downpour in a big city. Well, I guess there are the whiteouts on Rabbit Ears and Loveland Passes. haha I was a mountain tanker yanker for 3 years delivering to Montrose, Delta and Grand Junction. Also up north to Kremmling, Steamboat and Craig. Some beautiful country to drive through. Didn't go up 50 to often, at least past Bueno(deliveries to Gunsmoke) and Salida. and got lucky, only throwing chains on twice, plus one time going downhill westbound. To bad the folks can't really get a feeling for the steepness of the road. Stay safe out there, driver.

[@walt123able]

Tanker, Me Too. Drove "Barlow Tanker" for 1 Year. 7200 gal. 2 Baffles.

[@carolleverton7989]

paul m

[@Justadudeman22]

Yeah you ain't lying Im from the Midwest and have dry mountain experience. Never snowy mountain. Scares the hell out of me but I just take it slowly and start slow with low rpms. My questions is, is it safe to run with the Jake brake on because I tried it today and it seemed to want to pull on me.

[@BeCoShooter]

Cool, drove his very stretch in September. Beautiful country.

[@jackg6078]

Great View Good drive keep em comming!

[@patb9375]

Non of it was boring, beautiful road. Nice video, good commentary.

[@stephensmith1034]

“ let them do the Rambo Stuff”. Love it! 😜

[@valwright9871]

This was great and I clenched my rear too.. Then again I cannot drive in snow and I love your trips you take us on' Hats off to you you|re a great driver. Love it.

[@dorothyemal3529]

That was a beautiful scenery but scary. I'd trust you driving my family down that route, great driving Sir.

[@MegaSteve2011]

Dorothy Emal //

[@kennethhuff7158]

Thanks for the ride alone, very interesting.

[@nonmihiseddeo4181]

Beautiful country, reminds me of Western Montana, where I live, going up to Lolo Pass or Lookout Pass. Elk and deer galore.

[@frankwilliams5457]

SHOULD'VE SEEN EM BEFER GUARD RAILS.

[@johnloughman4619]

Hats off to you driver. I retired a few years ago after 40 yrs. Very good video. Cant say I miss doing the passes out there. Be safe and God bless.

[@back2vinyl493]

Might want to suction mount that thing to the windshield...,probably safer

[@bigmactrucker2344]

Back2Vinyl it’s a head cam dumb ass

[@farmerphil80]

@@bigmactrucker2344 driver said hes holding it in his hand. Probably not the safest thing to be doing considering the road conditions.

[@joewoodchuck3824]

Suction mounts are ok when new, but start to fail after a while. You can't count on them for very long.

[@alan0875]

@@bigmactrucker2344 dumbass we know drivers hold their phones to make videos, I’m gonna laugh though when DOT starts using their videos against them and passing out those $3000 tickets for using the phone while driving. Dumb ass lol

[@0xsergy]

@@bigmactrucker2344 you keep your head 5cm away and to the right from the steering wheel?

[@Panchovilla278]

I just passed through here this past week. Scary n beautiful. I’m glad it wasn’t snowing while I passed

[@derekstocker6661]

What a great winter driving lesson! Lovely video, loved the sound of that motor and with the company of the dog, what could be better? Thanks so much for sharing a pretty hair raising drive, IF you don't know what you are doing, fantastic! Lovely commentry....

[@HenauderTitzauf]

I used to be on the docks loading trucks. I learned a lot about the proper way to travel by talking to the otr drivers, my laminated road atlas, and list of good places to stop for breaks, eats, (petrol) gas, especially pee/poop stops that must be wife approved. Lol! I admire our truckers and what they do, day in, day out. Thanks for a great video will look for more.

[@renzo7503]

Damn good job, driver!!!

[@mtntopviking]

I was raised in Salida, Colorado and I went over this pass more times than I can count. It took several lives every year. You definitely have to respect it or it will take you out!

[@jerryturnbull755]

Learned how to drive on this pass and Loveland Pass before the tunnel.

[@patmac6356]

Better you than me on loveland pass you must have hauled hazmat or over sized or height.

[@elviraarriaga1424]

Great Truck Driving Video and Cute Pet dog hope it gets calmer with less motion anxiety while You both are Safe Traveling

[@my83roadster4me]

When I see videos like this I can't help but wonder how pioneers done it way long ago. The first ones to go west didn't have trails to follow,they had to make their own.

[@charlesroyal2545]

They got stuck going up Donner and ate one another untill the spring time lol

[@rodneycaupp5962]

Next trip take us over Gunnison River Pass in Mid january. I left permanent finger prints in my steering wheel, in late August ( at 90 degrees F), up there. No guard rails, and the 2,000 foot drop off is only about a foot over the white line at the side of the road. Where I live we have gently sloping hills almost 300 ft high, in Dayton Ohio. Thanks for the scenery and informative video.

[@donnafoster5404]

My husband can’t look away from the road for 2 seconds or he is off to the right side of the road. If he were driving, and saying “straight down, look, that is straight down, that little lady taking to you would be saying. “Straight down , going straight down.”

[@grammytammy8462]

My husband is the same way! Lol! I contemplate each night before I go in the bunk whether to put the net up! 😂😂

[@donnacarkin2029]

Monarch is scary even in the middle of summer. You made me hold my breath, what a great ride.

[@mikegross6107]

I'm not afraid of driving on mountain roads but every time you shifted that camera to view the side IT MADE ME A NERVOUS WRECK! (lol)

[@lastpreatorian418]

Mike Gross I was the same way. I actual blurred out “Stop your driving me crazy.” I just had this horrible vision of him also looking over the whole time and not watching the road.

[@howardfortyfive9676]

Yeah there's really no reason to show us the oblivion on wrong side of guardrail. We KNOW what straight down looks like! Screw driving one handed.

[@mudshark351]

That's funny, I kept trying to move over in my chair too!!!

[@thesilentcartographer5273]

Don't say "wreck" haha!!!

[@MrROTD]

I love these truckin highway videos Im not a trucker but I have driven most of the Gnarly passes in Canadian Rockies I love seeing this video I would love to drive this route.

[@redsoldierftcarson]

During the winter of 08 I went over that pass in the 1980 Datsun pickup (2wd) I had at the time, headed for California on Xmas leave while I was in the army stationed at fort Carson. Barely made it to the top of the first grade, could hardly see because it was dark and pretty much a white out, I put my chains on at the first flat spot I could find and that took awhile, once I got them on I started down and all that happened was I put a football sized dent in my driver's front quarter panel after kissing a guard rail on the way down. (was very difficult to see, road had enough snow to cover up lines/markers and over anticipated the turn.) I was sure glad when I got to the bottom and the road cleared up.

[@cierakitty]

I have seen Monarch snowing on one side...bright and sunny on the other.....felt like I had driven into the twilight zone

[@jgwalling]

Monarch pass is the EZ Pass try the million dollar Highway also known as Highway 550 between Durango Colorado to Silverton Colorado that's the ultimate test.

[@jgwalling]

then go through Silverton Colorado down to montrose Colorado that's even worse

[@sdafasdfasdfsda]

Silverton to Ouray is a butt puckerer for sure, Ouray to Montrose ain't no thang though.

[@FluffballKitties]

I'd rather go over monarch any day, rather then red mountain. I used to go over monarch at least a few times a year going to the springs.

[@railroad9000]

I drove that road in the summer. No way would I even think of doing it in winter

[@mitchc4897]

The Million dollar hwy is Durango to Ouray

[@dcbornmike]

Looks beautiful but I would Never attempt to drive out West in the Winter on those mountain roads!!

[@cnypilot]

Lovely driving. I love how when the roads grow Iffy, Colorado drivers speed up. :) I have aggravated a number of them this winter!

[@SurviveTheTime]

lol ... I have a different problem with Colorado drivers ... seems they drive too slow, and for some reason I have noticed this phenomenon since Colorado legalized pot.

[@cnypilot]

SurviveTheTime Could be. Could be. I am not sure that driving habits have changed much since legalization. It is doubtful that any more or less people have opted to light up due to changing laws. As most things, I believe it is just a change in perception. IE the effect of purchasing, say in my case, a Ford Ranger, suddenly Rangers are everywhere when you didn't notice them before. :) As for slow drivers... those around the front range seem pretty peppy to me. (I do my diligence of Posted speeds with maybe a 5-10mph over. ;) Maybe... )

[@POW862]

+SurviveTheTime Good driver is good driver, stoned or not. Better than most people on road after skiing, drunk!

[@madhatter8512]

cnypilot eh Chicago drivers are much worse especially in winter

[@madhatter8512]

cnypilot eh Chicago drivers are much wo rse especially in winter

[@savebabysweetpea4434]

So spooky. So awesome. I love the unpredictability of Colorado. Beats the hell out of Houston’s unpredictability.

[@johnnybravoBoyah]

Plus Houston's monsoons ,humidity & billion insects 👎

[@pattonph1]

Great ride and well done

[@beverlywinslow10]

Beautiful scenery. Love the dog. I have two American Eskimo dogs. Safe travels.

[@Dan-oj4iq]

Excellent narration! Now non tuckers may understand why truckers can't be concerned about traffic behind them.

[@Kobet971]

Gorgeous scenery ❤

[@trinkladd]

Dinners pass 1" ice and 4" of snow. Had 8 chains on. And at a standstill on level ground the truck broke traction just to build up some speed. 10-15 feet high snow drifts, visitor center covered in snow. Never been more scared, never will I do it again. Called dispatch to get details on driving condition. She said all was clear. 10 miles in and no turnaround later hit ice. Then started snowing. Never ever again!! Just wished the dispatch was in truck with me!

[@trinkladd]

+Jerred Leatherow sounds about right lol. Amazing coming down into California and it looking like spring, flowers blooming after passin through that shit.

[@eoleol4750]

Never forget "it's always clear".