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Batten54 · 01-29-2017, 02:52 PM

OK...We're going to see kids/grandkids in Kansas City area. Then to Grand Island NE (on I-80) for a couple of days. Then head for kids/grandkids stationed at Whidbey Island NAS by Seattle. We'll be leaving NE around first or second week of June. I DO NOT want to see snow or ice close to the road!

Prefer to run interstate, will be pulling the 35ft. 5th wheel listed below. What are the best/easiest driving routes for that time (over the mountains is what I'm concerned about) ?

JasenK · 01-29-2017, 02:56 PM

Once you get to the cascades you will be fine. The NW is snow free and beautiful by then still a little wet but easy driving

coupevilleDF · 01-29-2017, 09:27 PM

For interstate, I90 through the Rockies and Snoqualmie Pass will be your best bet. By then, there may be some snow on the slopes but rarely near or on the road.

Do NOT go through Seattle. Head north on I 405 in Bellevue and connect with I5 north through Everett. You could transition from 405 to SR 525 but I'm pretty sure you don't want to take the ferry. Save that experience for later without the trailer.

From I5, you will need to take SR20 west bound to Whidbey. Part of this route is 4 lane but becomes 2 lane when you turn towards Whidbey. You will probably not like towing across Deception Pass bridge but you can do it just fine. We meet trucks with out Class A with no problem. There really is plenty of room. Just watch your lane and don't get too close to the right side. Besides, it's the only option.

Enjoy our island.

Batten54 · 01-30-2017, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coupevilleDF

For interstate, I90 through the Rockies and Snoqualmie Pass will be your best bet. By then, there may be some snow on the slopes but rarely near or on the road.

Do NOT go through Seattle. Head north on I 405 in Bellevue and connect with I5 north through Everett. You could transition from 405 to SR 525 but I'm pretty sure you don't want to take the ferry. Save that experience for later without the trailer.

From I5, you will need to take SR20 west bound to Whidbey. Part of this route is 4 lane but becomes 2 lane when you turn towards Whidbey. You will probably not like towing across Deception Pass bridge but you can do it just fine. We meet trucks with out Class A with no problem. There really is plenty of room. Just watch your lane and don't get too close to the right side. Besides, it's the only option.

Enjoy our island.

I figured either
1. I90 all the way
or
2. I80 to Salt Lake, I84 - I82 - I90
I had already herd about SR20 over "The Bridge" but I405 to I5 is a great idea...stay away from down town Seattle! Thanks

beaverfever · 01-30-2017, 03:05 PM

you have to cross the continental divide no matter which way you go. i prefer 90 because it avoids salt lake area . go one way and come back the other.

Big Dude · 01-30-2017, 05:35 PM

I made this trip in 2015 and it went very well. I-80 to Ogallala, US-26 to I-25, I-25 to I-90 then into western WA. As a rail fan, I spent a day in North Platt at the Union Pacific rail yard. Crossing the Rockies on I-90 was not bad at all. Several interesting stops along the way.

Batten54 · 01-31-2017, 10:57 AM

Sounds like the I90 route is most common. I was leaning that way...sort of.

We'll probably catch I90 at Rapid City as we haven't spent time in the Black Hills for several years and like that area. From Grand Island I use to ride 2 to 83 to I90 and stop at Wall Drug on the way.

When we leave it will be S I5 to Paradise Point SP for a few days then on to the Redwoods of CA and Napa...wine country!