New Mexico is pretty cool. Check out Carlsbad Caverns and the White Sands National Park if you haven’t seen them before. Carlsbad is more out of your way but completely worth it. You can drive through Roswell and look for aliens as an added bonus to get back on your route. [Reply]
Starting that far south, I'm surprised Google map's fastest route is to stay on 54 through NM (had no idea it did that) and central KS.
I like going through central KS (and generally hate two lane highways), but looks like for such a long trip, you're only talking ~150 miles. No other reason to drive through there though.
I've heard Albuquerque to Santa Fe is cool, but haven't tried it... you could technically do that, but then would have to either go through central KS or drive to Denver and then across on I-80 (adding another 100 miles). [Reply]
Starting that far south, I'm surprised Google map's fastest route is to stay on 54 through NM (had no idea it did that) and central KS.
I like going through central KS (and generally hate two lane highways), but looks like for such a long trip, you're only talking ~150 miles. No other reason to drive through there though.
I've heard Albuquerque to Santa Fe is cool, but haven't tried it... you could technically do that, but then would have to either go through central KS or drive to Denver and then across on I-80 (adding another 100 miles).
I’ve driven from ABQ to Santa Fe, but wouldn’t rank it as a particularly scenic drive, at least not one I’d go out of my way for. Santa Fe is a cool town though. There are some good restaurants I like to eat at when I visit. [Reply]
We just did a long motorcycle trip, and stayed in Santa Fe, then came back via I-25 -> 412 -> 56. I've also done I-40 through Amarillo & OK City. Either way is pretty boring. The two lane highways aren't crowded in that section of the country (surprise!) so not much to worry about. Slow vehicles are easy to pass, and if you are outside of big towns, not much to worry about as far as speed traps. Just make sure that you grab gas when you can. There are some stretches where GOOD gas stations are few and far between. [Reply]
Originally Posted by displacedinMN:
Think I am passing on the two lanes. OKC I come. But not sure if I can last ABQ to Olathe.
If you are going that route.. then I'd suggest a stop for food at the Big Texan in Amarillo. Yes, it's a tourist trap, but their steaks are pretty damn good.
If you are able to take more time, then going through Santa Fe is a pretty cool detour. I'd go check out the historic town square, and grab a bite to eat in town. You'll be also be driving in higher altitude, so you might be able to put the top down for a bit, since the humidity will be low and temps are more moderate. [Reply]
hope its an old beetle conv and not a new one, you may never make it back.
those cars are horrible electric nightmares, sold one to my cousin once was so embarrased but it was what thy wanted, till they got it. good luck sir [Reply]
