First time driving across country, I can drive in snow, etc, but is it common for roads to be closed as we cross the Rockies? Is it reasonable to plan for 500 - 600 miles per day? Any other recommendations?
ibu guru
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It is not only the Rockies you have to worry about! Yes I-40 is often closed due to blizzards, winds, etc. thru the Rockies. But the high desert of northern NM, AZ and eastern CA can also be very dangerous with sudden snow/ice storms, high winds, etc.
Having driven I-40 a few times, I assure you that you want to take I-10 to LA. Not that I-10 is trouble-free, snow-free, just that the weather and road conditions have a better chance of being less hazardous in winter. Head toward Atlanta, and then on down southwesterly to pick up 1-10 if you don't want to catch I-95 to the 10.
About 500 miles/day is the max. You get too tired and subject to "highway hypnosis." Get OUT of the car and walk a bit, stretch legs every 100 miles/2 hours to prevent leg circulatory problems & cramps.