Best route from Bismarck ND to El Paso TX
We are traveling from Biamarck ND to El Paso TX in May. Has anyone done that? Is it better to go on I29 south or go the western route or US 83?
Forum Discussion
We just got home from our first trip in our new 5th wheel on Monday. And I'll guarantee that whichever route you take, you'll have a great time.
Just a few camping suggestions: most Nebraska state recreation areas are like state parks in other states. Many have electric and water hookups in their campgrounds, so check out the ones along your route before you leave. Texas state parks are generally on lakes and most also have at least electric and water sites in their campgrounds. Abilene SP is very nice, although a little off the US 83 to I-20 route. We have also stayed at Lake Colorado City SP, which is slightly closer to I-20.
And keep in mind that West Texas is BIG! You will be on I-20 for 450 miles between Abilene and El Paso, so, although you will be on an Interestate, it might be best to split it into two days. Especially if the wind is blowing from the west . . . . ask me how I know! The continental divide and the Texas version of mountains are near Van Horn, so that might be a good overnight stop.
Of course, an alternative route would be to divert from US 83 at US 180 (just north of Abilene) and head west for Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mtns. National Parks. We went there in April just a few years ago and had a great time. And US 62/180 from Guadalupe Mtns. NP to El Paso is a fairly straight, uninteresting, but good road, so no problems towing a trailer.
Just a few camping suggestions: most Nebraska state recreation areas are like state parks in other states. Many have electric and water hookups in their campgrounds, so check out the ones along your route before you leave. Texas state parks are generally on lakes and most also have at least electric and water sites in their campgrounds. Abilene SP is very nice, although a little off the US 83 to I-20 route. We have also stayed at Lake Colorado City SP, which is slightly closer to I-20.
And keep in mind that West Texas is BIG! You will be on I-20 for 450 miles between Abilene and El Paso, so, although you will be on an Interestate, it might be best to split it into two days. Especially if the wind is blowing from the west . . . . ask me how I know! The continental divide and the Texas version of mountains are near Van Horn, so that might be a good overnight stop.
Of course, an alternative route would be to divert from US 83 at US 180 (just north of Abilene) and head west for Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mtns. National Parks. We went there in April just a few years ago and had a great time. And US 62/180 from Guadalupe Mtns. NP to El Paso is a fairly straight, uninteresting, but good road, so no problems towing a trailer.
