Re: Phoenix -> Cleveland -> Phoenix, suggested routes?

Rob K wrote:

> Hi, I'm probably going to be driving from Phoenix to Cleveland and
> back over Christmas, I'm wondering if anyone has any suggested /
> recommended routes?
>
> I'm looking to get there in the shortest time, but on the way back
> I'll have a little more time, so I'll have a chance to take a more
> scenic or interesting route.
>
> Is there a "faster" way to get there than I-17 -> I-40 -> I-44 -> I-70
> -> I-71?
>
> Are there any areas worth avoiding during that time of the year, due
> to notoriously bad weather, etc?
>
> Thanks a lot,
>
> Rob

For speed and for weather, an alternative might be I-17, I-40, I-65, 
I-71.

The area around Flagstaff is in the mountains (6000' plus) and can 
get a lot of snow.  If they're getting hammered a route using the 
more southerly I-10 might be worth a look.

But that time of year for the weather the best bet is to stay up to 
date on it. If a storm tracks a little too far into the south an 
inch or two brings things down to near standstill.  Whereas a 
northern route will still be usable, because of better snow removal 
equipment.

If it's bad on the southerly route go a more northern track.  If 
it's bad on the northerly route go the southern.

Hope this helps.

Take care,
Rich

God bless the USA
--
Pour me something tall and strong.
Make it a hurricane.  Before I go insane.

--Alan Jackson