Chicago to Cedar City, UT - route 70 or 80?
Looking to make a trip from Chicago to Cedar City, UT. Looking at the maps, can come across and stay on 70 through Denver or split off onto 80 and go north around through Salt Lake City- Thoughts? ...
Forum Discussion
Highest point on I-80 is between Cheyenne and Laramie WY, at ~9600 feet and going westbound the climb is barely noticeable, it's that gradual. There's a decline into Laramie for about 7 miles, but it is not difficult at all. This is the highest point on the entire length of I-80.
I-70 gives you 3 climbs. The first is a long climb out of Denver up and over Floyd Hill and an impressive decline into Idaho Springs area. The 2nd is the climb from Silver Plume to the Johnson-Eisenhower Tunnels which tops out at over 11,000 feet and then a long downhill into Silverthorne. And then there is the climb up and over Vail Pass which also tops out at over 11,000 feet. These are the highest points on the entire length of I-70.
For easiest crossing, I-80 wins. For stunning views and vistas, can't beat I-70.
I-70 gives you 3 climbs. The first is a long climb out of Denver up and over Floyd Hill and an impressive decline into Idaho Springs area. The 2nd is the climb from Silver Plume to the Johnson-Eisenhower Tunnels which tops out at over 11,000 feet and then a long downhill into Silverthorne. And then there is the climb up and over Vail Pass which also tops out at over 11,000 feet. These are the highest points on the entire length of I-70.
For easiest crossing, I-80 wins. For stunning views and vistas, can't beat I-70.
