2007 Toyota Tundra: Long Way Home

Besides actually using the Tundra as a truck, I wanted it because it's very comfortable and has an awesome engine. It drives like a lifted luxury sedan down the highway, which is nice since I was planning on taking the long way home through some of the most beautiful terrain in California.

If you're not in a hurry, the best road to take is the Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway, otherwise known as Highway 395. In the south it straddles Death Valley National Park and Giant Sequoia National Monument then runs alongside Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park and Yosemite. Dozens of other attractions along the way include Devils Postpile, Mono Lake and the Ancient Bristlecone Forest. It's fair to say that I'm not the only who thinks this area is special.

From Tahoe, I first drove the backcountry roads to Reno for the drive south on the 395. I took the Henness Pass Road, an old trans-Sierra wagon trail built in the 1850's. With the Tundra's ample off-road suspension and powerful engine, I was able to take the maintained road at some speed.

I leisurely drove the 395 in 10 hours, stopping along the way to check out the sights, get some jerky in Bishop and see the sun set behind Mt. Whitney. The Tundra was so comfortable I didn't notice it, which is nice when you want to focus on the scenery. I had no dead leg/numb butt, the engine was powerful and able to pass any slow trucks and A/C blew nice 'n cold in the 100+ degree heat.

The only thing I wish the Tundra had for the long trip was satellite radio. A luxury for sure, but having the ability to listen to the same kind of music/programming the entire length of a road trip is pretty nice.

Scott Jacobs, Senior Photographer