I-70 west through the Rockies

Hi all. I'm looking for the experience of anyone who has driven I-70 West through the Eisenhower Tunnel all the way to Grand Junction with their Frontier. I am a first-time truck owner, a lady if that makes a difference, but I can handle my own. I have a 2026 sv 4x4. Driving all the way from the east coast heading to Nevada. This mountain stretch is the stretch I'm a little concerned about. I won't be towing anything and the only things in the bed will be typical things one has when traveling. Going in early October so I'm not anticipating major weather at that time but I'm looking for tips on how to handle the truck going down the steep grades. Should I manually put it in 4th or 5th gear all the way down to save the brakes or just let cruise control handle it. I don't think though cruise control will work well as I anticipate braking often to keep space from other vehicles. I would really value your real experience driving that stretch with your Frontier.