I'm planning a Christmas holiday with family in Las Vegas, then drivng on to Phoenix to visit more family. Highways 40 then 17 are the maqjor large roads, but Route 93 then 60 are smaller but more direct roads. What would these roads be like driving at the end of Dec? How fast can you drive? Are they 2 lanes each way? Thanks for any info anyone can provide.

anthony; route 93 from I-40 to Route 60 is a dangerous stretch of road. The locals refer to it as the highawy of death due to all the cross memorials along this road. It is mostly two- lane although construction has been going on for years to widen to four. The danger I think is from a winding,
curving very fast stretch of road driven by folks who didn't get much sleep during their Vegas trip hurrying to Phoenix trying to pass into fast blind curves. I'm not saying this route isn't doable as a time saver, you should just be extra cautious, drive with daylight headlights on, and don't be in a rush. As far as time of year of course the road would be busy (for Arizona standards)during holidays but rarely is weather a factor. speed limit I believe is mostly 65mph and there are safe stretches to 'wind it up'. Just be careful!!!

It's not that bad, the only way to go! We lived in Kingman, Az for several years and traveled 93 MANY times. If you're coming from LV, you'll take 93 and it goes through Boulder City and over the Hoover Dam...all 4 lane until the Dam area and then about 30 minutes of 2 lane through the mountain. Once you pick up 93 past the dam area, it's 4 lane with not much traffic to Kingman, AZ where you'll pick up I-40E in Kingman and then look for 93South again to Phoenix. Yes, the road winds, but they've added several passing lanes. It's about 3-3 1/2 hrs. from Kingman to Phoenix. Take your time and enjoy the ride....driving during the day is much better and the roads will be clear and most likely sunny, dry weather....50's or 60's. The only thing you may have is a lot of wind! And, yes, don't go after dark as there are many crazy drivers out there. Enjoy!

Thanks for your reply, MyoMy!!

So are you saying that 93/60 will be faster and preferable over 40/17?

Another question. If we were to make an overnight stop in Prescott, it seems then the best route would be 40 to 89?

We always took 93/60. Now, if you want to go to Prescott, 40 to 89 would be best. If you have the time, take 40 to Flagstaff and get on 17S and go through JEROME. It's a real fun ride...and continue it down to Prescott. Really neat town that was taken over by some (hippies) years ago and now is a wonderful artsy town, but the ride there on the mountain road is a real experience (fun, safe!) It's not too far out of the way and if you're planning an extra evening, it would be a good side trip. However, I'd really recommend going all the way and spending some time in Sedona. The most beautiful place in all of Arizona! Hope this is helpful. Have fun!