Hwys across northern Nebraska

[Freddy]

We're planning a trip in late April across NE, ultimately ending up in the very NW corner of that state in the town of Chadron.

Looks like there are two route choices: I-80 out of Omaha, then work up from there, or go north out of Omaha to Norfolk, and from there pick up US20.

I'm concerned about road conditions, but more worried about availability of gasoline along US20.

Anyone have any information, or suggestions for a better route over northern NE?

Is it unreasonable to think I can make it via US20 from Omaha to Chadron in one day?

Thanks - Freddy

[Freddy]

We're planning a trip in late April across NE, ultimately ending up in the very NW corner of that state in the town of Chadron.

Looks like there are two route choices: I-80 out of Omaha, then work up from there, or go north out of Omaha to Norfolk, and from there pick up US20.

I'm concerned about road conditions, but more worried about availability of gasoline along US20.

Anyone have any information, or suggestions for a better route over northern NE?

Is it unreasonable to think I can make it via US20 from Omaha to Chadron in one day?

Thanks - Freddy

[Cruzer]

It's a day drive. We've done Wall to Sidney and Lincoln to Cheyenne as day drives. They will be "all" day drives though. I-80 is great travelling and the higher speeds will save you some time. I'd take I-80 to Ogallala, then pick up US-26 and then US-385. You can refuel right at the exit in Ogallala. US-26 is a nice road and you'll be cruising right along the Oregon Trail until you pick up 385 and head north.

[Freddy]

Hey Cruzer,

Thanks for the tips.

Someday I'm gonna ask someone in the NE highway department why they didn't run I-80 straight E-W. I guess the answer would be that they couldn't pass up all those "major" cities in that state <g>!