Long Haul Semi-Trucks and Their Journey Over Hills and Mountains in the US
E throwable approximately 7,000 semi-trucks traverse the mountainous and hilly landscapes of the United States each day. Highways like I80 in Wyoming and I70 in Colorado are favorites for these long haul journeys, due to their scenic and challenging terrains. However, the reality for truckers is often far from picturesque.
Mountainous Routes in the US
No two trips are the same for a semi-truck driver. A typical route over a mountain in the area where I reside, Mount Eagle, can be steep but is relatively common. Drivers might make the journey twice a day, once loaded and once empty, just another day at the office. The same is true for other routes. Whether it's high in the Rockies or steep in the Appalachians, these mountains pose challenges that are often underestimated by the general public.
Challenges of Mountain Routes
Mountain routes are no joke for semi-truck drivers. They know the routes inside and out, and for them, they are just part of the job. West Virginia, in particular, has some of the worst terrains, according to one driver. Working as a flatbed trucker, he had to navigate tight switch-back turns on 14 grades, where trucks would use both lanes to get around the tight turns. Downhill traffic always had the right of way, so moving up and down those hills was a slow, arduous process. The air horn was frequently used to warn others, especially those without a C.B. radio, as stopping halfway up a hill could make it extremely difficult to restart.
The remote locations of the lumber mills required long drives to reach the nearest highway. For a 100-mile drive, it could easily take around 3 hours, and by the time back on the highway, his brakes and clutch were always warm, a testament to the toll these journeys take on the truck.
Navigating the Terrain
Semi-truck drivers need to be prepared to navigate all terrains. Every product and food item must reach its destination, regardless of whether it's flatland or mountainous area. Some areas, particularly in the Appalachian region, are simply very remote, leading to long hauls and higher costs. Not all drivers appreciate the mountainous routes, as they sometimes cut through scenic spots where people enjoy the views. Additionally, the wildlife poses a significant challenge, with incidents involving deer and cattle creating problems for trucks. To mitigate this, some drivers install cattle guards on their trucks, affectionately called 'deer catchers' by the drivers themselves.
Respecting the Truckers
Ultimately, truckers have the right of way when navigating these challenging terrains. The mountainous areas are sometimes required to move over, allowing semi-trucks to pass through. Despite the difficulties, these truckers are vital to the transportation network, ensuring that goods and food reach their destinations on time and that businesses can function smoothly.
The challenges of mountainous routes are deeply ingrained in the daily lives of semi-truck drivers, but they continue to traverse these roads, ensuring that the nation's supply chains remain robust and functional.