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The time has not yet come to settle on a route. Each of the three routes you've laid out will work perfectly fine, take about two and a half days to drive, and get you to Denver through some gorgeous scenery. As you note, the deciding factor could and should be the weather at the time of the drive, and there is simply no way to know that know. So review all three routes and get a feel for what's along them, but wait until just a day or two before you leave to review the weather forecasts and make a final decision.

Time is also you greatest ally in winter driving. Being in a position where you have to drive regardless of the weather in order to keep to a schedule is never a good idea. You should have extra time built into your schedule so that, should the need arise, you can simply sit out any wintry weather and let the road crews do their jobs, all while you sit warm in a comfortable motel room. And only when the roads are clear and the sun out again get back on the road. Since no matter which way you go, the trip will take two and a half days, if you plan on three that extra half day should be all that you need.

If you would like to visit sites along the way, then you'll need more time, at least a fourth day. And while we'd be glad to offer a few suggestions, those would depend on both your interests and the route you eventually end up taking.

AZBuck