Sometimes you learn the hard way.
Last weekend, we left the motorhome behind and stayed in a lodge within Custer State Park in South Dakota. The roads around the park are a bit challenging for some, especially if they don’t read the signs between the tunnels.
Much of the park features narrow roads and tunnels cut through granite, which makes you question whether a vehicle can navigate them.
Large pickup trucks must pull in their side mirrors to fit through, and I would question if the marks on the side were from a dually that swayed an inch too far in one direction.
At the tunnel near the lodge, we saw a young couple running into the tunnel in front of us, picking up large pieces of black plastic. We knew it was not a good sign. Vehicles were backed up on the other side as they collected the debris.
We went through the tunnel behind them and saw their trailer’s awning lying on the ground to one side.
Then we saw the trailer.
Then we saw the dealer tags were still on the back.
I felt so bad for them, but wondered what they were thinking? The signs are large and yellow, stating the height and width of the tunnel. If you miss the signs, there are minimal places to turn around.
That tunnel is 8.5 feet wide. Sure, trailers are typically less than that, but then there is the awning. Forgot about that one. Plus, who wants to thread a needle with your rig?
The car rental places do very well around here for that reason.
We all learn things the hard way, right?
Many years ago, we took our granddaughter on a long trip around the West after she graduated from high school. We visited Yellowstone, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Monterey, California, and drove up the coast to Oregon.
We rely heavily on GPS, which is not always the best approach when pulling a trailer.
Near Yosemite is the Old Priest Grade. It is about 3 miles shorter than the New Priest Grade, and of course, Google said to turn right. For some reason, Google thinks I want to get there fast instead of safely.
At the time, we had the travel trailer pulled with a Silverado 1500. Not the strongest motor.
The grade was approximately 9%, and if caught on the road with the trailer, a $1,000 fine would be imposed.
We made it up, but many people behind us were not happy! The truck was not pleased either.
It was a traumatic experience for me, and I’m sure our granddaughter remembers that drive very well. Who knew Grandma could say some of those words?
We all learn from these mistakes, and hopefully they don’t turn out to be costly. It serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and not rely solely on GPS or AI to ensure our safety.
I know you have a story. Let’s hear it!
