Campbell Grade

The Campbell Grade connects Mason Valley on the north with Vallecito Valley on the south. It is named for Everett Campbell, the rancher (and engineer) who built this portion of the road. Previously, the Southern Emigrant Trail had taken a steeper route up the steep hill between the two valleys.

Motorists today may find it annoying that the road forces them to make three sharp turns, including one hairpin turn, to get across Campbell Grade. In his book, author Lester Reed offers a different perspective.