San Diego to Phoenix

[distaff]

We will be travelling from San Diego to Phoenix in early February in a big MH. It looks like I-8 is the obvious road to use. Anything we should expect and anything we should plan to add time to do?

[Ronnie Bledsoe 2006 Dutchstar 43']

Depending on where you are going in Phoenix. If West side or taking I 17 North I would take I 8 to Gila Bend then take Arizona Hwy 85 to Buckeye.

[LindaH]

If you tell us WHERE in the Phoenix metropolitan area you are planning on going, it would help so that we could give you more detailed directions. As Ronnie said, if you're going to the west side of the Valley, I-8 to Gila Bend and SR-85 north to I-10, and I-10 east would be the best way. If you're going to the east side of the Valley, I'd take I-8 east all the way to I-10 and then go north. Depending on exactly where you plan on going, there are some other roads you might want to take, too.

[distaff]

The Phoenix end is not a big concern, it may be Scottsdale or Fort McDowell, possibly north Phoenix (that part of our itinerary is not set). We have driven around Phoenix a number of times. I am interested in what is in between, and if we should just make time or plan to spend some time, and if there are any really bad bits of the highway.

[Ronnie Bledsoe 2006 Dutchstar 43']

I'm not aware of any bad road conditions on I 8. If you have time you might check out the opportunities at Kitt Peak Observatory. That would require you to stay in the Casa Grande area and drive your toad about 60 miles...the evening at the observatory is worth the time and effort.

[skigramp]

I-8 between El Cajon and El Centro has three 4000+ peaks ... none of the grades are more than 6% ...

The biggest factor in driving this stretch is the possibility of dangerous cross wind conditions ... this is caused by the large cuts and fills at several places ...

When there are high wind warnings driving this stretch of I-8 gives you white knuckles ... don't ask why I know this

[MonacoMama]

distaff...I am going a bit here because I would like to welcome you to iRV2 and invite you down to the Monaco Forum where you can gather all sorts of helpful tips and bits of information from others with similar coaches.
You are also welcome to leave a bit early and join in the fun at Quartzsite !
Again- welcome...We hope you visit & post often!

Okay...back on topic

[Richard S.]

Just completed the round trip, and the roads are the best in 10 years.
I8 to AZ85 to I10

[distaff]

Quote:

Originally Posted by MonacoMama distaff...I am going a bit here because I would like to welcome you to iRV2 and invite you down to the Monaco Forum where you can gather all sorts of helpful tips and bits of information from others with similar coaches. You are also welcome to leave a bit early and join in the fun at Quartzsite ! Again- welcome...We hope you visit & post often! Okay...back on topic

MM - thank you for the welcome. I do peruse the Monaco forum, not sure if I have posted there yet. We may sneak away early, and Quartzite is intriguing, but I can't get away before the 14th, and then we need a favourable weather window. Comes down to "god will'n an' if the crick don't rise".