Describe your definition of "long, desolate"... it really does make a difference in the answers. Does getting off an Interstate qualify, or?
There are a hundred ways to see some great sites along that route. Is time an issue? Is anywhere that has decent cell service acceptable?
We have travelled a lot pulling our fifth-wheel over 20 plus years and have ventured over several types of scenic highways and two lane byways. With my husband’s health issues, I am just trying to avoid roads where we may not see another vehicle for ages. The main point of this trip is to get over to the Olympic Peninsula where we will spend 10 days. We’re allowing ourselves 4 days to get to the PNW from our home in Northern AZ. We have visited CA, OR, ID and parts of WA before so sight-seeing along the way on this trip isn’t that important.
Got it... given the choice, we'll always bag out of the CA route. It's a slog. Straight up 15 to 84. It's smooth, enough traffic and people but still moves decently and nothing desolate. For a nicer drive, I'd break off to 82 and 90, but you could cut into Portland and up 5...a bit shorter. Enjoy. Personally, can't stand freeways.
Right now the plan is to take I-40 over to Vegas (we have family there) and then 93 north out of Vegas up to Twin Falls and I-84 and westward. I think we will also be on 90 if I remember my routing directions. I will look at 82 as well, thank you for the advice.
