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We are moving to Oregon after the New Year. Our plan is to load up our two vehicles and caravan down, we're trying to save on moving expenses so we will be packing light and will not be pulling a trailer or U-Haul. From what I can tell the recommended route is to take I-80 through NE, WY, northern UT, ID and then make are way through OR. As efficient as this route may seem we are worried about traveling through these states in the winter months.
We have considered going south through CO and central UT and NV then up through CA but I do not know what the weather is like in central UT and NV during the winter months. Time is not a factor, as we would rather have a safe and stress free drive. Any advice or recommendations would be most appreciated
Our plan is to load up our two vehicles and caravan down... I-80 (then to I-84)
As efficient as this route may seem we are worried about ... the winter months.
Even in mid winter it is still the most direct and efficient route.
Just don't do it blindly or expect that ANY plan won't have a hiccup.
You should know how to drive in winter, the basic safety precautions and gear to have.
Beyond that it's about watching the weather fronts and timing your departure behind the fronts.
Do all of these things. Don't rush. Have some flex in the time and money budget.
Thank you so much! I've been bombarded with horror stories of driving through WY in the winter but you have a really good point! Just be cautious and take your time.
If you had a huge UHaul or were towing, it'd be dicey (particularly if you had a set schedule) because of wind and ice through much of the route. With regular cars it isn't so bad - plus it is SO far out of your way to anything else it is just not worth it.
Listen to the weather reports, watch for black ice along I-84 in Oregon, particularly on overpasses and in shady areas through the Columbia River Gorge.
Check the Farmers Almanac for the best likely days for travel. You will be traveling through three slightly diffrent weather regions. People always tell me when traveling east to west , pick a sunny day and follow the sun over the mountains.
I agree with other posters that I-80 and I-84 is the safer route. Not only is the CO/UT/NV route significantly longer, but there's less civilization along the route (NV is mind-blowingly desolate), and some stretches are probably even more prone to weird weather (very high passes in CO, mountain crossing after mountain crossing in NV). But bad weather can happen along either route. Since time isn't an issue, just take it slow..... Plan ahead, be prepared for minor delays, and watch the weather. Good luck!
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