S. Florida to S. California

[KennyR]

I made this drive in July via I-10 pretty much the whole way, Ft. Lauderdale to Los Angeles in a 25 ft Motor home. It was fine although pretty hot at the time. Thinking I'd like to try something a little different this time and it looks like I can go north from Mobile to pick up I-20 to Dallas and then up to Amarillo and I-40 the rest of the way. Should be an interesting change. What are your thoughts on this route vs I-10. I am a little concerned about the stretch from Dallas to Amarillo on Rt 287 as it will be the only stretch not on an interstate. If you've made this drive recently I'd much appreciate your thoughts and observations.I'm most interested in road conditions, safety when stopping, etc. I'll be going in early October.
Ken

 

[Kevin D Pem]

I am a history buff to a degree. The "I" system in general bypasses that history. Many times I choose to do it the way my granddad had to, navigator with map in hand. Most of these roads have 18 wheelers on them so you should be ok with whatever rig you have. I do cheat some on this grand plan by using google maps, because it will tell me of construction or routes without traffic problems. The original plan is research and map in hand to make sure I don't miss the highlights. More fun to drive routes can be found on motorcycle roads.com, FieldTrips (app) lets you know of places you may otherwise miss out on.

Did you know US route 66 was almost completely replaced by I-40? Where I sit right now is a Richfield gas station on US 66 that was featured in Easy Rider. 25 miles from where I sit is the gateway to the grand canyon, Williams AZ, the last town on US 66 to be bypassed by I-40.

I do not lament on the loss of the route and enjoy a quick trip on the "I" system on occasion. Did you know the TV series route 66 was seldom if ever filmed on anything to do with route 66? What I am saying is across this country the "I" system has bypassed many points of interest we should seek out, to enrich our soles. The Fox Fire books about the history of families in the hill country of the east has a museum that would be a great shame to miss, almost like missing the grand canyon except it was real history written by school kids as an english teachers project to increase the kids desire to learn.

Oh! to answer your question I don't think there is a bad route and I am glad to hear you want to change up your travels.

 

[Just George]

@KennyR 287 is 4 lane "interstate like" for most of the route. There are a few towns along the way where 287 is "main street" with traffic lights and such but really no big deal. I've driven it in the coach a number of times, most recently in June on a trip from North Dallas to Colorado. Depending on your schedule Oasis RV Resort just West of Amarillo is a nice park. Route 66 Casino Hotel West of Albuquerque also has a nice RV park. In my opinion the road condition is on par with and probably better that the "I system" roads. There are a few rest stops along the way and as I mentioned some small towns that can also provide a stopping point for fast food, fuel. etc. To me safety concerns no different than an Interstate route.

 

[Akdare]

X2 what @Someday Came said; I drove it a couple of times last summer. I overnighted at Oasis.