Nebraska I-80 vs Kansas I-70?

[Ridgerunner3]

Thanks to all of you. More good information here than I ever thought I would get when I posted the question.

[GettinAway]

I prefer 80 over 70. It just seems less boring. However, if you go 70 across KS, drop down on to highway 50. We go down 35 to Emporia to pick up 50 and take it across. If your going to RMNP though, that will bring you in too far south in CO.
I take 36 across MO quite often, but not KS. Did it once, too many stops in every small town. Maybe once I’m retired, I’ll have the time for that..

[ROBERT CROSS]

We are doing 30 again on our next trip West.
We have also jumped off and on 40 to experience the Horizontal Disneyland...66. 😎🇺🇸

Bob
🇺🇸

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Back when we lived out there, the COE campgrounds were by far the best in the area.

Bob

[stast01]

Originally Posted by Ridgerunner3

We are heading to Rocky Mtn National Park in a week. In the past we have headed to Lincoln NE and went across on I-80. I am considering I-70 across Kansas this time. Can someone with experience on both highways tell me how I-70 in Kansas compares to I-80 in Nebraska? I like I-80 fairly well but it does add some driving time.

My wife and I have had several opportunities to head west from southern Indiana. We generally take I-70 to Denver, then slide up to I-80 to hit SLC. Assuming no heavy construction, both routes are equally as fast. Most congestion is really in MO on I-70. Once you get past Kansas City, either going north to 80 or staying on 70, it's pretty smooth sailing.

[Mollysdad]

Originally Posted by Ridgerunner3

More good information here than I ever thought I would get when I posted the question.

Wait until you ask about generators, tires, hitches, or tow vehicles!

[Ridgerunner3]

Originally Posted by Mollysdad

Wait until you ask about generators, tires, hitches, or tow vehicles!

I have made the mistake more than once of jumping into one of those discussions. Very strong feelings on those subjects!

[donking]

Originally Posted by Ridgerunner3

We are heading to Rocky Mtn National Park in a week. In the past we have headed to Lincoln NE and went across on I-80. I am considering I-70 across Kansas this time. Can someone with experience on both highways tell me how I-70 in Kansas compares to I-80 in Nebraska? I like I-80 fairly well but it does add some driving time.

Lots of big truck traffic on I-80, last time I was there. One might take note that a number of the Kansas rest areas have special areas for campers, away from the "regular" rest area, and they are free.

Don

[kswelsh]

I agree with the other folks, take the slow, scenic (less trucks and stress) and take Hwy 36 all the way across from Hannibal, MO. You will not be disappointed! There is a nice park in Norton, KS that you can overnight if needed, Prairie Dog State Park. Have a nice trip.

[WorkBGone]

Originally Posted by mayco

ABSOLUTELY! We love US36, great road in great condition with very little traffic. We have driven I80 and I70 but once we tried US-36 we have stayed with it. We travel from central IL. To the Denver area at least twice a year.

This whole thread is great and pertinent to me. I'll be going to Colorado Springs (first destination) mid August from Massachusetts.

After reading all the remarks I'll be going 36 from MO and drop down to I70 near the Colorado boarder to get to CO-24.

Any recommendations between Decatur and Indianapolis?

Looks like 36 is still an option - though I70/I74 will be faster I assume.

I - like others - prefer the slightly longer scenic, less truck traffic, less stressful route over the interstate. Except when the the scenic route hits cities.

That being said I need to make some time starting off so I will be going I84 through CT to I-80 in PA to I76/I71/I70 in Ohio, unless someone has a better idea.

Looks Like I could also get US 36 as early as the Columbus OH area (a few options).

[Ridgerunner3]

Originally Posted by kswelsh

I agree with the other folks, take the slow, scenic (less trucks and stress) and take Hwy 36 all the way across from Hannibal, MO. You will not be disappointed! There is a nice park in Norton, KS that you can overnight if needed, Prairie Dog State Park. Have a nice trip.

I checked out Prairie Dog State Park. It looks like a really good stop option. I was going to make reservations but there was a two night minimum for the night I needed. I may go ahead and book two nights. I believe 36 is the way I will cross Kansas.

[Motoman]

Originally Posted by centennialman

Try highway 36 across northern Kansas...lots of rolling hills and nice scenery

I agree, US-36, maybe a couple of hours longer but great scenery, parks, small towns. I can't remember taking the slab, even on my motorcycle!

[donrogers]

We drove between Decatur and Indy twice last week, traveling 36 from I465 westbound and I74 to I465 eastbound and I74 is quicker. 36 just west of Indy has a stretch with many stop lights.

[WorkBGone]

Originally Posted by donrogers

We drove between Decatur and Indy twice last week, traveling 36 from I465 westbound and I74 to I465 eastbound and I74 is quicker. 36 just west of Indy has a stretch with many stop lights.

Thanks donrogers.