OK...In Need Of Some Old Man of The Mountains Advice

Then again I prefer driving I-40 over the I-20/I-10 just for the beauty of it. Happy journeys...

 

Anytime.

Even if you take either of the 2 longer routes, you will save money on tolls and fuel and be less likely to encounter severe winter weather. The longest route is only about 8% more miles than the shortest route. Wait until the spring to get your experience crossing the big mountains. You will see they are difficult enough on dry roads, let alone packed with snow and ice.

Drive safe!

 

I know you're right. I've driven those Colorado mountains my whole life and love them. But they can be a bit daunting for a flatlander that is new to driving

 

The only way I'd want to tackle I-70 over the Rockies in the winter as a newer driver would be to have a seasoned pro in the passenger seat to walk me through the process. Better to cut your teeth on less challenging, drier passes to the south. Learn the feel of the jake and gear selections to control X weight of cargo. Take on a little snow in flatter or shorter environs. Later you can take on the bad boy and always give it respect.

No matter what do learn how to chain up efficiently.

 

Just remember if you are going through Donner Pass it is nice to bring a relative to snack on.

 

I'm the man on the mountain. The man on the Silver Mountain.

 

THAT is the man on the silver mountain!!

 

I guess it depends on when you're planning to head this direction and how heavy the load. 80 to 76 to 70 to 15 would be the most scenic, and most likely the quickest, but mother nature can be persnickety this time of year, thus it depends on when you're planning the trip. Check the weather/road reports before leaving and as you journey.

 

United Airlines Flight 1558 to LAX. Actually, just follow I 78-I81-I76- I55-I44-I40-I15 just jump in the middle of it. The only real mountain is West of Flagstaff AZ and then down Cajon. Otherwise most are just hills if you ahve a Jake Brake. That is the preferred route but you have to pay tolls in PA and I 44 across OK.