I-40 in New Mexico, Arizona and California

[Mark Sedenquist]

This was originally posted by member Howard in December, 2008: (lost and restored by Mark Sedenquist)

I just want to add a little to what Tim and Michael have already pointed out.

Originally Posted by Mass Tim
The first leg of this trip is in areas that are prone to seeing snow, etc. You may be limited in your choice of camping until into Texas. Even then, the route that 66 took still hits some higher elevations prone to snowfall.
Route 66 follows the same path as I-40 most of the way across Arizona and New Mexico, at elevations above 5000’ most of the way, and a bit over 7000’ at several points.

Originally Posted by Midwest Michael
Even though you'll be farther south, you'll still need to expect cold temperatures (especially at night) and you'll need winter camping gear even in places like Oklahoma and Texas. It wouldn't be at all surprising to see some snow or ice at some point of your trip.

Michael is right, you’ll definitely need winter camping gear. It can get very cold at night in northern NM and AZ, especially at the higher elevations. Here’s a map showing average annual snowfall in the US.


Copyright: Colorado Climate Center, Colorado State University