Are you planning a road trip and wondering whether to take I-80 or I-70? Both routes offer stunning scenery and unique attractions, but they also have their own pros and cons. In this article, we’ll compare the two highways to help you decide which one is the better road trip for you.
Distance and Time
When it comes to distance, I-80 is longer than I-70. It spans across 2,900 miles from San Francisco to Teaneck, New Jersey, while I-70 covers 2,151 miles from Cove Fort, Utah to Baltimore.
This means that if you’re looking for a longer road trip with more stops along the way, I-80 might be the better option. However, if you’re short on time or want a more direct route, I-70 might be a better choice as it takes around 4 hours less to travel from coast-to-coast.
Scenery
If you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders along your road trip, both highways won’t disappoint. However, they offer different types of scenery.
I-80
I-80 passes through some of the most iconic landmarks of America’s west including the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and Wyoming; Lake Tahoe in California; Salt Lake City in Utah; and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. The scenic views along this route are simply awe-inspiring.
I-70
On the other hand, I-70 takes you on an unforgettable journey through picturesque towns nestled in green hillsides surrounded by gorgeous mountains. You can stop by Glenwood Canyon in Colorado which features stunning rock formations; Arches National Park in Utah where you can witness over 2000 natural sandstone arches; St Louis Gateway Arch which is the tallest arch in the world; and many more.
Traffic
When it comes to traffic, both highways can get congested during peak travel times. However, I-70 is known for having more traffic jams and accidents compared to I-80 because of its narrow lanes and steep inclines. I-80, on the other hand, has wider lanes and less elevation gain which makes it easier to drive on.
Food and Accommodation
If you’re looking for a variety of food options and places to stay along your road trip, both highways have plenty of options. However, I-80 has more urban areas and cities that offer a wide range of culinary delights and accommodation choices. On the other hand, I-70 offers a more rural experience with charming small towns where you can savor homemade treats at local diners or stay in cozy cabins in the woods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both I-80 and I-70 offer an incredible road trip experience with stunning scenery, unique attractions, delicious food options, and comfortable places to stay. The better option depends on what you’re looking for in your road trip – if you want a longer journey with breathtaking mountain views then I-80 is perfect for you; if you prefer quaint towns with natural wonders then go for I-70. Either way, both highways are sure to provide an unforgettable adventure!