Liviving up here in the foothills of California, I travel this route regularly in my 87 Westy, I much prefer this shortcut than getting stuck
behind a Motorhome on the main road. My Westy handles the "grade" both up and down much better than my Jeep.
For those wondering, I've been informed it is a 17% grade, and yes it is a nasty steep hill.

Pete
vanagon@email.com