I-70 vs I-80 road condition, which is better.

Thom02099 wrote:

in5r wrote:
I have somewhat the same question. How do road conditions between 70 and 80 compare between Indiana and Denver. We just came back from a trip out to Denver without the 5th wheel on I80 then 76 into Denver to 70. I80 had some terribly bumpy areas in multiple areas. One in the Chicago area could probably launch you into a low earth orbit if conditions were just right. 76 in Colorado had its issues as well. We are heading out in August with the 5th and wondering if I70 might be worth a thought. Once again only very recent experiences not years ago.

Have travelled back/forth between Colorado and Indiana several times, destination in NE Indiana (Fort Wayne area). Using that as a marker, I take US 24 west to I-57, I-57 south to I-72. I-72 turns into US 36 at Hannibal, MO and I stay on US 36 across MO and KS, and on in to CO where it meets up with I-70. Particularly on US 36, this is a much better route IMHO. The road surface is better, the traffic issue is a non-issue and for me, it's just a better experience. Small towns (especially in Kansas) about 30-40 miles apart, doesn't slow you down that much and gives a good leg stretching break or fuel stops.

Thom gives Sage advice here - ^^^^^^^^ - RT 36 is just fine, but we tend to take a Diagonal before Colorado state line to get back to I-70 as the roads in Eastern Colorado don't get much Love and the surface on I-70 is new till you get to the city of Denver - then you need to be smart on timing as rush hour is just SLOW.

Also note that there are many options in small towns with WalMarts or in town small $20 parks Hays and Ellis come to mind.

When you get to Denver we always take RT 54 to RT 6 out though the Canyon following Clear Creek to I-70 and Idaho Springs. My welcome to Colorado Just Beautiful and Easy pretty much same drive time.

Best of Luck,