Chicago to Seattle?

[jazierae]

Hi,

I will be setting out (unexpectedly) today on a roadtrip from Chicago to Seattle, hauling a 4' x 8' trailer and I was looking for any advice on routes and what to expect at this time of year? I know there are some passes in Montana--does anyone know about the conditions at this time of year?

Any advice on weather, routes, interstate, elevation and/or what to avoid would be most welcome.

Thanks in advance!

[DonnaR57]

If you are traveling with a laptop, use the hotel's wireless for checking on weather. The Weather Channel website has an "interstate forecast". And stay fluid, just in case you have to wait out a storm.

Interstates are your best friends for travel during this time of the year, because they are the FIRST to be plowed and/or salted. The interstates were built for cross-country travel both for military and commercial truckers. Stick to the interstates and you'll probably have smooth sailing.

Best wishes on your relocation!


Donna

[Midwest Michael]

Welcome back to the RTA Forum!

Sticking to I-90 (or I-94) should make this a very easy trip for you. I-90 through Montana does have a few passes, but they are actually at a lower elevation than passes further south, including I-80, I-70, and I-40. Montana's plow crews are excellent, as is their system for alerting travelers of poor conditions. Take a look at the Montana DOT Road Conditions site, which has up to date conditions, traffic cameras, etc. Right now, they show good conditions statewide. There is the chance of rain in the next few days, but for the most part, temps should be warm enough where the problems you'd see should be few and far between.

BTW, how did your trip to Chicago go?