For some, the thrill of a non-stop festival weekend, a multi-day hiking expedition, or a sporty outdoor escapade is unmatched. The Sierra Nevada is a playground of opportunity for such adventurers, but once all of the fun has been thoroughly enjoyed, there’s the challenge of the long drive home to consider. Whether you’ve been trekking around Lake Tahoe and are heading back to San Francisco, or have ventured from Los Angeles to Mammoth for some spring skiing, the fatigue and post-thrill exhaustion can set in and make driving home a risky experience if you’re not prepared.
Here, we explore what you need to stay safe, alert, and comfortable after an action-packed exploit.
Prepare the car before you set off
Driving in a vehicle that’s lacking in basic safety features or in need of engine fluids, fuel, or other essentials is dangerous, especially over long distances. The Sierra is well-equipped with sturdy roads, but it’s likely you’ll still encounter some dirt roads, hairpin bends, and potential hazards – such as snow or ice at higher elevations.
Managing difficult road conditions is hard enough in a well maintained vehicle, so your car needs to be in top shape before your journey begins, as the chances of you feeling enthusiastic about topping up your washer fluid or pumping up your tires after your mentally and physically testing trip are small. Before you set off, take the time to check:
Fuel: Though you may have to top-up en route, making the effort to have a decent amount of fuel in the tank ahead of your return trip can save a lot of stress.
Tires: Ensure they’re properly inflated, undamaged, and have the legal amount of tread.
Fluid levels: Your oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid should be topped up.
Lights and indicators: Especially if you’ll be traveling home at night, visibility is crucial.
Essentials: Keep an emergency kit in your car in case you break down – a flashlight, first aid kit, a warm coat, and extra snacks and water are all smart choices.
Managing fatigue on the road
It’s understandable that your energy levels are going to be low after an action-packed adventure, so planning ahead to manage your inevitable fatigue is important. Estimate your driving time realistically, taking into account any delays that may occur and also allowing yourself time to stop every couple of hours. At higher elevations, especially in winter, whiteouts are common – making it difficult to see the road ahead.
Trying to stick to a tight schedule can encourage you to push on when you are too tired to drive or if the conditions are poor, which can have dire consequences – especially if you’re driving at night. There’s also plenty of large deer and elk to keep an eye out for in this stunning national park, so you need to stay sharp and be able to react quickly if one crosses your path.
Be mindful of the signs of tiredness, such as heavy eyelids, trouble concentrating, and yawning frequently. If you find yourself not remembering the last few miles, that is a clear indicator that you need to stop and take a power nap. Staying well hydrated and eating a
healthy, balanced meal before you set off may help to maintain your energy levels, but you shouldn’t rely on coffee or energy drinks for serious fatigue. If you can share driving with others and take it in turns, that’s a far better, safer idea than dosing up on caffeine and powering through.
Prioritize comfort
Post-adventure, you’re bound to be pretty sore and physically exhausted. Driving for long hours is often uncomfortable, so packing a few luxuries for the drive home can significantly help to boost your comfort and mood. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and pre-load some of your favorite podcasts, audiobooks, or music onto your device before you set off. Keep some healthy, high-energy snacks handy, and don’t forget to locate your sunglasses to help reduce eye strain on the road.
Don’t rush
Even if you’re tired and desperate to get home as quickly as possible, driving safely should always be a priority. Use the ‘two-second rule’ to maintain your distance from other road users, and aim to take regular breaks to either nap or stretch your legs every two hours. If you’ve been enjoying the peaks of the mountains, be aware of the signs of altitude sickness – it’s been known to occur in the Sierra even at lower than usual heights, and the effects can be exacerbated by strenuous activity.
Sometimes, the best option is to delay your return trip altogether. If you feel far too tired to drive safely, the weather conditions are poor, or you are anticipating long stretches of traffic without the opportunity to stop if you need to, prioritize safety. Booking an extra night away to explore more of the wilderness at a more relaxing pace, or getting a few more hours of sleep before you leave is well worth the extra time to prevent a dangerous situation on the road.
