Thanks for all the input. The reason we want to take our time there and drive back more directly is so that we don't rush through some of the major stops like Yellowstone. In order to give those places the time they require, wouldn't it be smarter to sacrifice the drive home?

I plan on getting some maps immediately. That's a great idea. I really know little about the northern route. I've driven extensively through the south and central states but I've never done the north.