Pre-planning for first long duration trip upon retirement

Suggest you take 2-3 months and see as much of the west and Alaska as is possible. You will not regret doing so but if you don't you will almost certainly will. That period in your lives will be an exciting time and should be enjoyed. Old age and with it will bring infirmities that won't permit that type of trip.

Go and enjoy. Limit your daily mileage to about 300 miles. Limit your travel days to about 4 days per week. Don't tie your selves down with a schedule. That's why you're retiring. Be safe.