I am leaving Monday (Feb 1) from Fort Wayne, Indiana and driving to Creede, Colorado. This is not a vacation, I am relocating. So, my preference is just getting there and not making stops to see the sights.

I would like to try the southern route this time. In the past I have typically used the I-80 route when traveling from the Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana areas to Colorado. Since I am leaving for this next trip at the very beginning of February, I thought maybe I could try the southern I-70 route out of Indianapolis, Indiana and divert to I-40 to 24 West and into the Pueblo area via I-25. Alternatively, I could take I-74W to I-72W to 36 West to US 50 W to 160 to 149 and on to Creede. CO.

Of course weather is unpredictable as ever and I will be watch the weather reports close to departure and also en-route, I have a 4 wheel drive truck and will be carrying chains.

My questions; Has anyone driven either of these routes and what would your preferences or comments be about taking the southern most routes? Also, are there any good recommendations for affordable and clean motels/hotels along the way? I like to keep the hotel motel nightly rates to between $55.00 and $65.00

Thank you,

Dennis
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I have driven I70 many times to Denver. why not just go to denver and head south and west from there. It is an easy drive--just put in the time to cover the miles.
There are motels all along the interstate for about that. You'll need to watch the weather, of course.

Do you want 2 12 hour days or 3 8 hour days?
Mapquest says to get off I-70 onto US 24 to Colorado Springs avoiding Denver.
First night near St. Charles MO west of St. Louis and the second night near Hayes KS.

tomfuller,

I will probably do 4 6 hour days. That gets me 3 nights in a hotel or motel.

Thanks,

Dennis

Maybe Collinsville IL and then take an hour the next day to see the St. Louis Arch. Night 2 in Salina KS and night 3 in Colorado Springs CO.