Tangento

Wow guys, thanks for the awesome welcome and responses. I've only just read your suggested route, and it already sounds excellent. I will take some time to look at the video, the pics and a map and see how it feels. On the good news front: I just got the official "ok" from my ex-wife, and my boss actually thanked me for asking for 2 weeks off in June. He says it's a slow period, and it will help him avoid possible layoffs. See that? My road trip is already helping the economy! Oh yes... as far as my daughter's interests go, they are quite a bit like my own: old/ weird abandoned towns and roads, (esp. US Highways) along with a good dose of geological & historical wonders of the West.

Greetings all, my first post. All statements, phrases or sentences which amount to requests for advice will be in bold type. We are leaving MN early on June 7th. I have allowed 4-5 days for the trip to California. Tips regarding easily accessed, safe stretches of abandoned US Highways are of utmost importance throughout this trip. I am driving my 8 year old daughter out to Cali for the second time in her young life. The first was tainted a bit, as we had to bring her mother (my ex) along. We got along great and all, but she happens to be one of these "why do you want to see these stupid old roads?" types, as well as being a "we need to hurry up & get there" kinda people. My daughter and I, we're quite the opposite -- and this time we go solo. Last time, we took the Interstates all the way there, and the highlight was definitely I-70 through Glenwood Canyon, Colorado. Anyone who hasn't yet driven that stretch of Highway needs to get serious about doing so. So, here are the basics of the trip so far: I HAD planned on taking US 212 all the way to Yellowstone, but I believe that would require more time than we can really spend on leg 1. I have opted instead to use I-90 for the majority of the way to Black Hills country, and stay our first night somewhere near Mt. Rushmore. Keystone seems to be the place to be, however Rapid City or any of the surrounding towns could work. I have never been anywhere near this area, so any and all advice would be appreciated. From there, I need a good route (balancing scenery with efficiency) down to Moab, Utah. We want to see Arches for sure, and whatever else we can squeeze in. Other than those two destinations, we plan to hit Calico Ghost Town in the Cali Desert. Anyone who wants to help fill in the blanks, feel free to join in.