Cabbage Hill, also known as Emigrant Hill, is a stretch of road along Interstate 84 in Oregon that has earned a fearsome reputation among truck drivers. Its steep grades, hairpin turns, and unpredictable weather make it one of the most challenging descents in the Pacific Northwest. The section of highway, located near Pendleton, traces a part of the historic Oregon Trail, and while it offers breathtaking views of the Umatilla Valley, it has also been the scene of numerous accidents, especially involving trucks.
Historical Significance and Lore
Emigrant Hill, also called Deadman Pass, has a long history. It was a major obstacle for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail in the 19th century, and its steep descent claimed many lives, both human and animal. Today, remnants of the old trail can still be seen alongside modern roads, serving as a reminder of the area’s perilous history. The name “Cabbage Hill” comes from a local legend about a woman who once grew cabbages on top of the hill.
The Challenges of Cabbage Hill for Truck Drivers
Navigating Cabbage Hill requires precision and caution, particularly for drivers of large commercial vehicles. The descent features a 6% grade over a seven-mile stretch, with sharp curves that challenge even the most experienced truckers. For many, the difficulty lies in managing their speed and braking on the steep decline. Truckers descending too fast risk losing control, and brake failure is a common issue on this stretch of road.
According to reports, a significant percentage of truck accidents on Cabbage Hill are attributed to brake failure. Truck drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the terrain, often find themselves in trouble when they fail to reduce their speed before the descent. Once momentum builds, it can be difficult to regain control of the vehicle, resulting in frequent accidents. Heavy.com
Notable Accidents on Cabbage Hill
One of the most harrowing accidents on Cabbage Hill occurred in December 2012. A tour bus carrying South Korean exchange students lost control while descending the hill during icy weather conditions. The bus slid off the road and down an 85-foot embankment, killing nine passengers and injuring many more. The crash was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the hill’s steep incline, particularly in winter when snow and ice can make the road even more treacherous. Heavy.com
In 2015, another major accident occurred when a pileup involving over 20 vehicles, including several semi-trucks, happened during a winter storm. The icy conditions made it difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles, and the crash resulted in multiple injuries. Such incidents highlight the unpredictable nature of Cabbage Hill, where weather conditions can change rapidly, leaving drivers with little time to react. Oregon Injury Lawyer Blog
In addition to these major accidents, countless other truck drivers have shared stories of close calls on Cabbage Hill. Many recall moments when their brakes began to fail or when they found themselves sliding uncontrollably on the icy road. These experiences have made Cabbage Hill a point of anxiety for truckers, who often prepare themselves mentally and physically before attempting the descent.
Stories from the Road
Truckers who regularly drive I-84 have a deep respect for Cabbage Hill. Many share stories of their experiences navigating the hill, often warning others about the importance of managing speed and using lower gears. Some veteran drivers advise newcomers to stop at the rest area before the descent to double-check their brakes and mentally prepare for the challenges ahead.
"I remember my first time on Cabbage Hill," said one trucker in an online forum. "I didn't think it would be that bad, but once I started down, I realized how steep it really was. I could feel my brakes heating up, and by the time I hit the bottom, they were smoking. Now, every time I drive that route, I make sure to go slow and steady. It's not worth rushing it.”
Another driver shared a story about a winter trip down Cabbage Hill when visibility was nearly zero due to fog. "I could barely see in front of me, and the road was slick with ice. I just took it one turn at a time, gripping the wheel tight and hoping the truck behind me was doing the same. It was one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of my career.”
Safety Measures and Precautions
In response to the numerous accidents, Oregon’s Department of Transportation (ODOT) has implemented various safety measures to help reduce the number of crashes on Cabbage Hill. These include clear signage warning drivers of the steep grade and sharp curves, as well as the installation of runaway truck ramps for those who lose control of their vehicles. Additionally, ODOT frequently monitors weather conditions on the hill, providing updates and warnings to drivers via electronic road signs. Heavy.com
Despite these efforts, Cabbage Hill remains a challenge, especially during winter. Truckers are advised to take extra precautions, including reducing their speed well before the descent, using lower gears, and allowing plenty of space between their vehicle and others. In winter conditions, drivers are encouraged to chain up their tires and avoid driving the hill if possible when snow and ice are present.
Conclusion
For truck drivers, navigating Cabbage Hill on Interstate 84 is often a rite of passage. The combination of steep grades, sharp curves, and unpredictable weather makes it one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in the region. Despite modern safety measures, the hill continues to claim vehicles each year, particularly during the winter months. For those who drive it regularly, Cabbage Hill is a reminder of the importance of caution, preparation, and respect for the road.
For images and further reading on Cabbage Hill, you can visit Backroads in Oregon.