The grade is going up to a reversing loop , so going down is on the same track. I think it saves space that way. Might be wrong. Grade start ascending right after the switch. As far as I can figure the grade to get to 7 inches clearance will be <5%. The red section is elevated and it is there where I need clearance. Pretty steep. I guess that's why Lionel called it the big climb.
Thanks for all the info