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Cross Country Routes
Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2011 4:00 pm
by rprothero
Anyone out there have a cross country (Continential US) route they have taken and would like to share...Im trying to get a guage on best paths and timing to allow to complete a trip.
Re: Cross Country Routes
Posted: Sat Sep 24, 2011 4:35 pm
by NoRRmad
I've done a few cross-country trips, and I find that the weather map is more useful than a road map. I wouldn't plan more than a day in advance, and check NOAA each evening.
The only specific road advice I'd offer is to stay well clear of Chicago.
Re: Cross Country Routes
Posted: Mon Sep 26, 2011 4:35 pm
by peterbulgar
Need a little more information on your expectations. Where are you starting from, do you want to visit New England, Key West, south, north, west coast Pacific Highway, etc. I've been back and forth across the country many times both car and motorcycle starting in 1972. Do you want to stay off the Interstate if at all possible (my preference), do you have a limited time frame, etc., etc.? I like the old US highways, such as US 12, US 20, US 36 or 136, etc. When they go through large cities you can get on an Interstate or ring road to avoid the urban area. You can even maintain a decent average speed on state roads in farm country or those areas that don't have a lot of small towns.
My suggestion would be to start with regional maps from AAA or another source. Pick out a general route, then look for the old US roads that go through interesting areas. Once you have a rough idea of your route, look at the individual state maps to refine the trip. I find it much easier to use paper maps for the initial planning because you get a better "big picture" than you can with the tiny screen on a GPS or even a computer.
And avoid any route that goes within 60 miles of Chicago! Maybe 100...
Peter 1973 R75/5, '04 R1150RA, '06 Kawasaki EX500, '08 Suzuki DL650A