Southern California to Illinois

What an opportunity to retrace the old Route 66. In Williams, AZ, one of the best preserved Route 66 towns you could take the train to the South Rim.

ducksquasher wrote:
Hi All,

Bought a new FR3 this year and planning a trip to our family farm in Kankakee, Ill next year when the kids are out for summer.

Hello from the Kankakee area! I haven't been west of Salt Lake City, but I80 from that point east is fairly easy. I pulled a 40' fifth wheel through that area without an issue. Take your time; you'll be fine. There are great places to stop and see along the way if you have time. Once you hit Nebraska, just keep going. All the cool places to see are west of there!

How old are the kids? There are quite a few pioneer-related sites along I-80 in Nebraska that can offer diversion & education along with an enjoyable break from the drive. Just one example is Ft. Kearny State Historical Park, which has a state recreation area (same/similar name) nearby with a decent campground. (I'd suggest reservations on weekends.) I-70 is a bit farther south; I'm not as familiar with its offerings, except for incredible scenery across Colorado. Easy connect to I-15 in Utah. Several nice CGs on the route, both private and state parks, in CO & UT. Perhaps others can advise on what you'll find along I-40 and other routes; we're not as familiar with those.

You could vary the route, taking a different one each direction, to make it more interesting.

I second US 34. We have gone that way headed west on two trips. Much better than the interstate highways. If you go this way, remember that you are not in a hurry so don't get upset if I am ahead of you going the speed limit. You can also expect a few tractors along the way.

If you have the time and really like lessor highways than interstates take us route 34. We did that several years ago and loved it . Nice scenery slower pace and interesting places along the way.

Last year in April we went from Central California on 40 to Kentucky then up to Elkhart, IN. Went home partially the way you’re planning. Only issue was by early May the roads weren’t completely repaired. One bad spot on I 80 in the west side of Illinois just before the border broke the bolt on the left rear axle spring pack on our 5th wheel.

Or you can do stepladder from I-15, I-40 then eventually to I-80 and go sight seeing and stopping in campgrounds along the way.

I-80 will get you there.