road trip on interstate 80

Coast-To-Coast: 16 Stops To Make On An I-80 Cross-Country Road Trip

From California to New Jersey, an I-80 road trip is an adventure through capital cities, states, national parks, and expansive scenic views.

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Two More Stops Along I-80 For A Memorable Road Trip

• Salt Lake City is a must-visit along the I-80 route, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban attractions. From exploring the stunning Great Salt Lake and Snowbird Ski Resort to visiting Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
• Best Time To Visit Salt Lake City, Utah: June to September
• Famous Places To Visit in Salt Lake City, Utah: Temple Square, Great Salt Lake, Utah State Capitol, Snowbird Ski Resort, Red Butte Garden

Running from San Francisco, California, across 2,901 miles to Teaneck, New Jersey, Interstate 80 is familiar to many cross-country travelers looking for a smooth long-distance trip. With large stretches of flat, even landscape through the deserts and plains, it’s easy to write I-80 off as a boring, function-based road. Those with a little time on their hands to explore the route, however, will quickly realize how much is waiting to be discovered.

I-80 is among the most unforgettable road trip ideas in the US . It's filled with scenic drives through California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, with enough big cities and state parks to keep even the most restless travelers excited to hit the road. Here are the best I-80 attractions that one should not miss while taking this iconic US road trip route!

UPDATE: 2023/10/21 16:08 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with two additional stops along I-80 for those planning a drive. From California's ever-hot Death Valley to Nebraska's Carhenge attraction, Interstate 80 continues to prove one of the United States' most fun and whacky driving routes. Don't forget to fill the tank/charge the car, and safe travels!

Exploring America's Backroads: 10 Affordable Road Trips To Scenic Small Towns

16 death valley, california.

One of the hottest spots on Earth that people can visit while traveling along Interstate 80 is Death Valley. Here lies the National Park , boasting stops like Titus Canyon, with a ghost town and colorful rocks, and Badwater Basin’s salt flats, North America's lowest point. Above, the Telescope Peak Trail weaves past pine trees. North of the spiky salt mounds known as the Devil’s Golf Course. Death Valley continues to be a focal point of the California Desert, regularly seeing triple-digit days. Moreover, a fall-spring road trip in the area won't pose as much danger as a summer one, because of the insane temperatures.

Suppose you want to come to experience Death Valley. In that case, it's recommended to fill the tank fully before embarking into the National Park, grabbing snacks and water, and charging all smartphones/devices. Again, there will be park rangers and other travelers throughout the region, but it can be unforgiving to those who come unprepared.

• Best Time To Visit Death Valley : Late March to early April
• Famous Places To Visit In Death Valley : Badwater Basin, Furnace Creek, Death Valley Junction, Panamint, Ballarat, Teakettle

15 Carhenge, Nebraska

The next thing to see along the I-80 route is Carhenge , a sculpture garden consisting of 39 automobiles just off Interstate 80 in Nebraska. This odd landmark has become a pop culture icon and brings people to the state each day to witness it. Moreover, Carhenge is meant to be the US's Stonehenge in appearance, which is a huge part of its allure. This unique replica of the world-famous Stonehenge was constructed of old cars in 1987 by the Jim Reinders family and remains a top-visited attraction in the state today. Carhenge is located on Highway 87, three miles north of Alliance, Nebraska, for those wanting to check it out.

In addition, you would take a slight detour from I-80 north to Alliance, where the Carhenge landmark sits. This shouldn't be more than a 20-minute detour plus time spent at the attraction. Regardless, it's certainly a quirky site to see while in the state and country.

• Address : 2151 Co Rd 59, Alliance, NE 69301
• Hours : Open 24 hours

Carhenge is open 24 hours, seven days a week. However, if there is inclement weather, the landmark may be blocked off. It's always good to check the official website for updates regarding closures or reduced hours.

14 Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California's state capital, is a worthwhile stop along the I-80 highway for travelers who enjoy exploring historic charm and modern attractions. The city close to San Francisco has a unique combination of fascinating history, exciting culture, and diverse attractions. Visitors will find the Crocker Art Museum, Old Sacramento's preserved 19th-century structures, and the California State Capitol Museum fascinating.

The city's stunning parks, such as Capitol Park and the American River Parkway, will captivate outdoor enthusiasts. Its thriving culinary scene, exciting entertainment options, and proximity to the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains make the city a popular road trip destination.

• Best Time To Visit Sacramento, California: April to June and September to November
• Famous Places To Visit in Sacramento, California: California State Capitol, Old Sacramento State Historic Park, Crocker Art Museum, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, Tower Bridge, California State Railroad Museum, Sacramento Zoo

13 Empire Mine State Historic Park, California

Empire Mine State Historic Park is a wonderful stop along the I-80 route, offering travelers opportunities to learn about the state's rich mining heritage while touring the ruins of a once-productive gold mine. Visitors will also have the chance to indulge in outdoor activities or experience the lush beauty.

From historic structures like the Miners' Bunkhouse and Empire Mine Mansion to the beautifully preserved mineyard, exhibits, hiking trails, and gardens, there is much to explore in the park.

• Location: 10791 E Empire St, Grass Valley, CA 95945
• Opening Hours: 10 AM - 4 PM. (Winter Hours- 11/1-2/28); 10 AM - 5 PM. (Summer Hours- 3/1-10/31)
• Best Time To Visit Empire Mine State Historic Park, California: May to September
• Famous Places To Visit in Empire Mine State Historic Park, California: Empire Cottage, Empire Mine Mansion, Miners' Bunkhouse, Pelton Wheel Exhibit, Visitor Center and Museum

12 Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Starved Rock State Park is among the best things to see along I-80 in Illinois; it's a picturesque natural retreat along the Illinois River. Its imposing mossy canyons, majestic cascading waterfalls, and lush forests provide numerous opportunities for scenic hikes, fishing, boating, and admiring breathtaking views. The park also has a rich Native American heritage and intriguing legends.

It is a fantastic location on an Interstate 80 road trip route to take a short break and refresh amid nature's splendor, camp overnight, or stay at the on-site lodge.

• Location: 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
• Best Time To Visit Starved Rock State Park, Illinois: April to November
• Famous Places To Visit in Starved Rock State Park, Illinois: Lover's Leap Overlook, Eagle Cliff Overlook, St. Louis Canyon, French Canyon, and many more canyons, Starved Rock Lodge

11 McConnell's Mill State Park, Pennsylvania

McConnell's Mill State Park is renowned for its stunning natural features, which include jaw-dropping cliffs, a gorgeous gorge, and an appealing covered bridge. The park's hiking trails, including the well-known Slippery Rock Gorge Trail, allow travelers to see magnificent waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find multiple opportunities to indulge amid the picturesque surroundings, like kayaking, fishing, and rock climbing. McConnell's Mill State Park offers a peaceful detour from the highway, enabling visitors to get close to nature and take in the peace and beauty of western Pennsylvania.

• Location: 2697 Mcconnells Mill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051-6111
• Best Time To Visit McConnell's Mill State Park, Pennsylvania: May to October
• Famous Places To Visit in McConnell's Mill State Park, Pennsylvania: Slippery Rock Creek Gorge, McConnell's Mill Covered Bridge, Hells Hollow Falls, Alpha Pass Trail, Breakneck Falls, Cleland Rock Overlook

10 San Francisco, California

San Francisco is both a major stop and the westernmost point of Interstate 80. As the start or end of a cross-country journey (depending on direction), the vibrant coastal city of San Francisco is definitely worth some time. Unique restaurants and shops line the streets and piers.

Taking the time to hit hotspots like Chinatown and Pier 39 could easily fill a couple of days between beach visits, and those who time it right might catch seasonal attractions like Tulipmania, which is one of the best tulip festivals in the US and runs for a few weeks each Spring.

• Best Time To Visit San Francisco: September to November
• Famous Places To Visit in San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Union Square, Chinatown, Golden Gate Park

Related: Safety In San Francisco: Tips For First-Time Visitors

9 Reno, Nevada

Reno, the first major city to the east of the Sierra Nevadas along I-80, offers not only a break from the more intensive mountain driving but a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Similar to its sister city in the south, Las Vegas, Reno has a number of casino and nightlife options.

For those more interested in stretching their legs outside, the numerous activities in and around Reno are ideal; it's a great hub for whitewater rafting, rockhounding, or swimming. Paired with unique museums highlighting everything from modern art to vintage vehicles, it won't take long to get hooked on this often unassuming stop.

• Best Time To Visit Reno, Nevada: May to October
• Famous Places To Visit in Reno, Nevada: National Automobile Museum, the Reno Arch, Nevada Museum of Art, Fleischmann Planetarium, Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Silver Legacy Resort Casino

8 Salt Lake City, Utah

As the capital of the state of Utah, Salt Lake City has a bit of everything and is home to some of the best things to see on I-80. Numerous historical sites delve into the history of the pioneer travelers who settled in the area. Modern science and art museums such as The Leonardo and the free Utah Museum of Contemporary Art give an urban feel to the area and provide an afternoon escape for those venturing coast-to-coast.

Those with a few days to explore the area can explore the surrounding areas, such as Park City, famous for its winter sports and summer festivals, or take a drive or hike around Antelope Island to see the bison, bighorn sheep, and antelope up close. With hikes, museums, and good food at every turn, Salt Lake is the perfect place to pause and explore.

• Best Time To Visit Salt Lake City, Utah: September to October
• Famous Places To Visit in Salt Lake City, Utah: Temple Square, Utah State Capitol, Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, Great Salt Lake, Liberty Park, Hogle Zoo

Related: 10 Unique Things To Do In Salt Lake City

7 Bear River State Park, Wyoming

Those without time to venture off-route to Antelope Island can still enjoy all the wildlife that the plains of the Midwest have to offer. Bear River State Park is a free park that is open year-round and hosts all the wildlife travelers could hope to see. The visitors center has a number of mounted specimens, a way to preserve some of the most beloved large wildlife that has called the 324 acres home over the years.

After visiting the stuffed versions and getting the full history of the area, guests can explore the paved and gravel roads to see the herds of bison elk that currently roam the lands. Guests can either return to the road or reserve a camping location if more time is needed in these wide open spaces.

• Location: 601 Bear River Dr, Evanston, WY 82930
• Best Time To Visit Bear River State Park, Wyoming: April to May and October
• Famous Places To Visit in Bear River State Park, Wyoming: Bear River Greenway, Bear River State Park Visitor Center, Wildlife Viewing Area, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Bear River Heritage Area

6 Lexington, Nebraska

After enjoying the wide expanses of the plains, Lexington offers a return to the city stops and sites. As part of the historic Pony Express, Lexington has gone to great efforts to preserve the significance of the area, including restoring one of the stations that were once used.

Those looking for a more recent display can visit the Robert Henri Art Museum, which stands as just one of a number of museums in the city limits. With the Dawson County Historical Museum and Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles, antique shops, and even a winery and brewery to venture through, Lexington offers each traveler something to add to their must-see list.

• Best Time To Visit Lexington, Nebraska: July and August
• Famous Places To Visit in Lexington, Nebraska: Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles, Dawson County Historical Museum, Johnson Lake State Recreation Area, Oregon Trail Park, Lexington Historical Museum, Crossroads of the Western Trails Museum

5 Omaha, Nebraska

The biggest city in Nebraska, Omaha, has all the hallmarks of a big city. Major attractions such as the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium are a sight for all ages to enjoy for hours. Like Lexington, Omaha is proud of its history and gives travelers the opportunity to experience what their predecessors went through to cross the state.

Visitors to the Mormon Trail Center can try pulling a handcart, while guests at the Durham Museum can climb aboard a steam train and enjoy the art deco theme of the old train station. Those hoping to enjoy a less structured wander around town can walk along the 3,000-foot Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge or go tubing along the Elkhorn River.

After exploring the wineries, Wildlife Safari and Conservation Park, and four lakes that also exist within the city bounds, some travelers may be tempted to end their journey here and enjoy the wide variety of activities Omaha offers .

• Best Time To Visit Omaha, Nebraska: Between September and November
• Famous Places To Visit in Omaha, Nebraska: Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Old Market, Joslyn Art Museum, Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, Heartland of America Park, Lauritzen Gardens

4 Des Moines, Iowa

Another capital city along the 2,900 miles of driving along I-80, Des Moines is a hub of unique attractions . The capitol building itself is a site worth exploring, and nearby the State Historical Museum, Des Moines Civic Center, and Des Moines Art Center offer a complex deep-dive into the culture and history of the area.

Outside, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and Gray's Lake Park offer great views of the city and surrounding area. As a major city, Des Moines is also home to more specialized museums, like the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates, which explores the importance of food security and offers free tours throughout the day by appointment.

After restocking at the local farmer's market, travelers will be physically and mentally prepped for the last few states of the drive.

• Best Time To Visit Des Moines, Iowa: June through August
• Famous Places To Visit in Des Moines, Iowa: Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Des Moines Art Center, Principal Park, Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Salisbury House and Gardens

3 Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

After several big city stops, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a total escape from rush hours and long lines. Not far from Cleveland, Cuyahoga is a combination of forests, farms, and rolling hills. The park offers a number of ways to enjoy the sites, including hiking paths, horseback riding, biking trails, and even a scenic train ride.

The lakes and rivers are perfect for paddling and picnicking, and with over 200 species of birds known to frequent the park, guests won't have to strain to enjoy the natural wildlife. Those looking to spend the night in the great outdoors can reserve a camping spot.

The park's trails offer picture-perfect views even at night, with clear nights offering miles of the night sky to enjoy. Whether an afternoon stop or a multi-day break from the drive and the world, this park is a must.

• Location: 1565 Boston Mills Rd W, Peninsula, OH 44264
• Best Time To Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio: October
• Famous Places To Visit in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio: Brandywine Falls, Stanford House, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, Blue Hen Falls, Ledges Trail

2 Freedom Falls, Pennsylvania

I-80 acts as a major highway through the state of Pennsylvania, but the roadside attractions definitely give these 311 miles their own scenic feel. Multiple waterfalls can be found within a few miles of the interstate, including Freedom Falls in Venango County. This 20-foot waterfall is popular with Pennsylvanians but is less known by those just passing through.

The Falls themselves are named for the long-gone town of Freedom, whose 1832 Rockland Furnace still stands near the waterfall. After enjoying the waterfall, guests can explore the Rockland Tunnel or Allegheny River Rail Trail before wandering back to the highway for the home stretch of the trip.

• Best Time To Visit Freedom Falls: March through May
• Famous Places To Visit near Freedom Falls: Ohiopyle State Park, Fallingwater, Laurel Caverns, Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Youghiogheny River Lake

Related: 10 Awesome Things That You Can Do In Pennsylvania

1 Teaneck, New Jersey

Nearly 3,000 miles from the bustling city of San Francisco, Interstate 80 ends in the much quieter township of Teaneck, New Jersey. Here, guests can finish their road trip by exploring the multiple religious sites in the area, including the Jewish Center of Teaneck, or get back outdoors at one of several local parks.

The Teaneck Creek Conservancy, in particular, offers a unique look at the environmental, cultural, and historical story of the town. This dog-friendly non-profit gives guests a chance to walk through local plant and animal life while also exploring one-of-a-kind eco-art, like intricately decorated rain barrels or the Turtle Peace Labyrinth.

The site also offers a look at the history of the area, dating back to the Native Americans who originally called the Teaneck wetlands home. Having explored a multitude of historically, culturally, and geographically significant stops along the way, the little town of Teaneck is the perfect finale to bring it all together.

• Best Time To Visit Teaneck: Mid-June to late September
• Famous Places To Visit in Teaneck: Teaneck Creek Conservancy, Overpeck County Park, Puffin Cultural Forum, Holy Name Medical Center, Cedar Lane Cinemas, Mexicali Live

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Home / Southern Pacific

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents across the nation’s southern tier takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. Throughout this roughly 3,000-mile (4,828 km) journey, you can shift from one world to another in the time it takes to play a baseball game. Heading east from the golden sands of San Diego, within a few hours you reach the harshly beautiful Southwestern deserts, their trademark saguaro cacti creating a backdrop straight out of a Road Runner cartoon. The route’s central segment crosses the thousand-mile “you can see it for two days” plains of New Mexico and West Texas , where pump jacks jig for oil and cattle graze beneath a limitless sky. To the east spreads yet another land, starting at the cotton-rich Mississippi Delta and continuing along the foot of the Appalachians to the bayous and sea islands surrounding the country’s grandest little city, Savannah.

Especially memorable is the diversity of people and prevailing customs along the route, all highlighted by a range of accents and lingos. For travelers, this cultural diversity is perhaps most accessible in the food. Many regional American cuisines—Tex-Mex, Cajun, Creole, and barbecue, to name a few—were originally developed somewhere along this route, and roadside restaurants continue to serve up local specialties that lend new meaning to the word “authentic.” Along the open borders between Texas and New and old Mexico, in unselfconscious adobe sheds with corrugated metal roofs, chili-powered salsa accompanies roast-steak fajitas; in Louisiana, entrées featuring catfish fillets or bright-red boiled shrimp grace most menus; and everywhere you turn, roadside stands dish out reputedly the best barbecue in the universe. We’ve noted favorite places along the route, but all you need to do is follow your nose, or look for a line of pickup trucks, and you’ll find yourself in culinary heaven.

On an equal footing with the fine food is the incredible variety of music you’ll hear, whether it’s in a Texas honky-tonk or in the juke joints and gospel-spreading churches of Mississippi and Alabama. Along the Mexican border, from San Diego well past El Paso, radio stations blast out an anarchic mix of multilingual music, part country-western, part traditional Mexican, with accordions and guitars and lyrics flowing seamlessly from one language to the other and back—often in a single line of a song. Along the way, you can visit the hometowns of Buddy Holly, Little Richard, and Otis Redding, or pay your respects at the final resting places of Hank Williams, Jimmie Rodgers, and Duane Allman. After dark, listen to the current and next generation making music in roadside bars and clubs.

A wealth of distinctive literature has grown out of these regions, and you can visit dozens of characteristic literary scenes, live and in the flesh: Carson McCullers’s “Ballad of the Sad Café” and other tales, which capture 1920s life in Columbus, Georgia; Cormac McCarthy’s wide-open tales of the Texas frontier; the diner from Fried Green Tomatoes; and the original God’s Little Acre and Tobacco Road. But there’s also sober history, from Wild West Tombstone and Bonnie and Clyde’s death site, to the Dallas intersection where JFK was assassinated, to the streets of Selma, where the civil rights movement burst forth onto the nation’s front pages. Best of all, many of the most fascinating places along the way remain refreshingly free of the slick promotion that greets you in more established tourist destinations. The relatively low profile of tourism here, and the fact that only a few big cities lie in wait to swallow your vacation dollars, help make this part of the country relatively inexpensive for visitors—but even at twice the price, it would be well worth experiencing.

Highlights along the Southern Pacific

For more insight into each stop along the Southern Pacific road trip, our content is arranged by state. Here are some major sights along the route:

• Jacumba, California – Southern gateway to the splendid 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, one of the largest and wildest desert parks in the country
• Tombstone, Arizona – The rough-and-ready mining town of Tombstone has kept itself looking pretty much as it did back in the 1880s
• Roswell, New Mexico – Home to the International UFO Museum and Research Center and the only UFO-themed McDonald’s in the world
• Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail, Alabama – Dozens of sites in Selma and Montgomery, and the entire 50-some-mile length of US-80 between them, are being documented, preserved, and protected
• Tybee Island, Georgia – This funky old family-oriented resort at the eastern end of US-80 has four blocks of burger stands, taverns, and broad clean sands

Southern Pacific Road Trip Maps

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USA Road Trip: Chicago to California on I-80

Posted By: theweekendjetsetter August 10, 2017

Two months ago, I spontaneously relocated to California for a job opportunity. A month before the move, I’d never even considered living in San Francisco. It sounded expensive, and filled with traffic. While it certainly is both of those, I wasn’t about to pass up my dream job (and I have an affinity for reinventing myself life completely every year, apparently). So here I am!

Once my cross-country move was confirmed, I got excited: it was time to road trip across the U.S.! I’d never gone on a “real” American road trip before, where the journey took more than one day’s drive. How had I been to Morocco and Ecuador, but not explored the heart of my own country?!

There are several routes you can take between Chicago and San Francisco. But since we only had around five days to make the trip, we took the most direct: the I-80 road trip. Yes, that’s one road for 30+ hours. When you get on the highway, your GPS will say: “continue on I-80 for 2,000-something miles.” Pretty insane!

With limited time until the new job started, I planned the trip carefully and made the most of the opportunities to stop along the way. But despite careful planning and research, one of my favorite pit stops ended up being somewhere that wasn’t even on my radar before pulling off the highway. Funny how that works out, isn’t it?

Let’s take it state by state:

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Iowa: A Great Place to Gain a Pound

Iowa is what you’d expect Iowa to be: mostly farm land. I’d never been to the state before and didn’t spend much time there. But we did make one pit stop recommended by an Iowa-born Chicago friend at Zombie Burger in Iowa City. Here, you can stuff yourself with a tasty burger situated between two grilled cheese sandwiches. How American is that?

You’ll probably keep eating for the rest of the trip (what’s a road trip without snacks?) – but you won’t need to. If you ever find yourself driving through Iowa, I highly recommend it.

Oh, and the Iowa sunsets are pretty rad too.

Nebraska: A Place That Will Make You Miss Iowa

I’m not going to lie. While driving through Iowa, I thought to myself in a snobby, northeasterner way: yowza, this state is boring. It’s flat, consists mostly of farm land, and the “city” of Iowa City looked suspiciously like a suburb.

But the next day, I took it all back. I missed Iowa every one of the 455 miles I spent in Nebraska.

If you live in Nebraska, I’m sorry to hate on your state. I’m sure there are some cool things there, but the drive along I-80 isn’t one of them.

It’s basically this for around six hours:

There was one thing that impressed me in Nebraska. The city of Sidney, where outdoor retailer Cabela’s is headquartered, has the coolest Subway location in America. It’s in a log cabin-like building, next to a Union Pacific caboose.

So if you ever find yourself driving through Nebraska, craving a $5 footlong (are they $6 now?), pull over in Sidney.

Wyoming: IT HAS MOUNTAINS

After driving through Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, nothing is more exciting than a varied landscape. I felt like a sailor spotting land for the first time in months when I saw a mountain rising up in the distance.

I also started to see herds of pronghorn, animals that look similar to antelopes. They were everywhere!

After stopping to snap pictures of some pronghorn near Elk Mountain, we spent the night in Rock Springs , a small city with plenty of lodging options. The best bet is a motel right off the highway with a great Mexican restaurant (Santa Fe Southwest Grill) attached. There’s nothing like being able to roll right into bed after an oversized portion of enchiladas and a margarita.

The reason for stopping in Rock Springs was that I wanted to check out Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, located half in Wyoming and half in Utah. Made up of red canyons and the Ashley National Forest, with a reservoir in the center, Flaming Gorge is, well, gorge!

Ok please forgive me for using the word “gorge” in such a cheesy manner. I just couldn’t help it.

It took about half a day to circle the Flaming Gorge reservoir in the car, stopping along the way to snap photos of the amazing views.

There were more pronghorns, especially in the Wyoming half, and if we’d had more time, it would have been great to camp out along the reservoir and have the chance to see more wildlife early in the morning.

Flaming Gorge was surprisingly uncrowded. There were no other cars on the road, and few people in sight.

Utah: More Mountains!!

Utah was by far the most beautiful state on this road trip. As soon as you cross the border, I-80 starts twisting and turning through snow-capped mountains.

I was determined to finally stretch my legs and get some exercise in Utah, which is why I chose adventure destination Park City as a stopping point. Little did I know that late May is the “muddy season” in this region with all the snow melting on the hiking trails. Whoops!

Luckily, the front desk at Park City Peaks hotel suggested Big Cottonwood Canyon for some hiking that wouldn’t be too wet. Just like the rest of Utah, it was pretty beautiful!

Not wanting to miss anything, we also made a quick stop in Salt Lake City. Seriously it was a quick stop – only about 15-20 minutes to walk around downtown and snap some photos.

Nevada: Surprisingly Awesome

I’ve never dreamed about visiting Nevada. I associate the state with brutally hot deserts and Las Vegas, a place I’m avoiding until a work conference or bachelorette inevitably forces me there.

But Nevada ended up having one of my favorite places during the I-80 road trip.

I’d originally planned to stop in Elko, the biggest town along the highway and the #1 place that pops up when you Google “places to stop along I-80 in Nevada.” But wanting to make more progress, we pushed onward until a place called Winnemucca .

Beyond it’s pretty cool name, Winnemucca was great. First of all, the surrounding area smells delicious thanks to all the sage growing.

Second, it offers some pretty sweet views if you drive off into the mountains around sunset time.

Third, Winnemucca has drinks to go, a novelty for someone born in puritanical Massachusetts!

The evening started at a Mexican restaurant across the street from the Frontier Motel – the night’s accommodations. Once I found out that the margaritas the size of my head were available  to go , it was all over. There’s something about drinks to go that makes drinking more exciting. It’s like I’m under 21 all over again!

I proceeded to have my first casino gambling experience in Winnemucca. It was mediocre and I lost $20, but it was everything I imagined a casino to be.  Check!

Winnemucca was the last pit stop on the way to California, and it was certainly one of the most memorable.

I-80 Road Trip Complete: California, I Made It!

So what did we do when we made it to California? While there will be many posts about California – seriously, this place is a weekend getaway gold mine – all you need to know is that I made a beeline for In-n-Out Burger.

Stay tuned for more California adventures to come!

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7 comments on "usa road trip: chicago to california on i-80".

great post ! I can’t wait to take a cross country trip from NC – Cali this year. I’m torn between planning out every stop and letting fate take the wheel. I know either way it will be a great adventure!

Cross country from Chicago to San Francisco in August! This thread was very helpful

Thanks Sarah!

If anyone is traveling WEDTBOUND from the Midwest to Los Angeles there is a hidden (sort of) gem in Colorado called HANGING LAKE. It is about a one-hour hike and roughly 1,000 feet in elevation oh, and you can only get to it going west but it is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen and so worth it

Great post! I actually happen to be from Morocco and I’m moving to SF for the same reason you did. This post was very helpful in planning my trip. Thanks!

Thanks for sharing your experiences and great photos. Glad you had a fun time, minus the I-80 Nebraska drive. Iowa is all green rolling hills, nothing flat about Iowa. Iowa City is a suburban college town. I suspect you drove around the city Des Moines when traveling on I-80. The navigator does that. That’s the city to stop at for a meal.

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Road Tripping through Wyoming: 17 Sights to See off I-80

Home » Road Tripping through Wyoming: 17 Sights to See off I-80

A road trip is a quintessentially American experience—especially if it involves a drive through the storied terrain of the Wild West. Taking I-80 east to west across Wyoming, the vast expanse and rugged landscapes of the state unfurl in spectacular fashion, while pit stops in small towns and urban hubs break up the drive and ramp up the fun. You’ll see geological sites, soak up Western culture firsthand and trace the historic path of the Union Pacific Railroad. Driving across Wyoming isn’t just a way to get from here to there: It virtually beckons for exploration and adventure.

Looking to fill out your road trip even more? Don’t miss the opportunity to veer off the main route. We’ve listed scenic byways and three classic north-south routes to see even more of the state as you make your way across, organized by the nearest city.

Wyoming State Museum

Kick off your trip by swinging through Wyoming’s capital and getting a crash course in the culture and history of the great state you’re about to drive across. The Wyoming State Museum highlights important human-impacted historical events and the natural history of Wyoming.

Alternate Road Trip Idea: Park to Park

This route traces I-25 before veering west and is easily accessible from Cheyenne. From state parks to vineyards to natural geological wonders, there’s plenty to choose from along this stretch to Yellowstone National Park’s east entrance. Some of the dozen suggested stops along the trail include the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, Ayres Natural Bridge and the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.

Ames Monument

Certainly not what you expect to see in the middle of Wyoming, this 60-foot-high granite pyramid known as the Ames Monument , also known as the Ames Brothers Pyramid, was built by the Union Pacific Railroad and designed by renown architect Henry Hobson Richardson (one of his biographers even described it as “perhaps the finest memorial in America … one of Richardson’s least known and most perfect works.”) Back in the day passengers could get off the train and explore the site while waiting for engines to be switched out.

Lincoln Highway

The Lincoln Highway was the first coast-to-coast highway in the United States, and you can still ride a section of this historical route by following US-30 signs toward Medicine Bow. Be sure to take Exit 323 to take a photo with the grand Lincoln Monument .

Medicine Bow National Forest

Outdoor recreation opportunities abound in the million-acre Medicine Bow National Forest , accessed from Laramie via WY-130 or WY-230. Explore the Medicine Bow Mountains and Snowy Range and enjoy the camping, fishing and hiking this area has to offer.

Fort Fred Steele Historic Site

Built in 1868, Fort Fred Steele was built to protect the Union Pacific Railroad and its workers during the railroad’s initial construction. Take a self-guided tour to see what remains of the original buildings and learn about the fort’s role in Wyoming history.

Seminoe State Park

Sagebrush, sand dunes and pronghorn are all iconic reminders that, yes, you’re still in Wyoming. All of these icons can be found in abundance at Seminoe State Park , a must-stop along I-80. Camping and boating are permitted throughout the park, and water access includes the Seminoe Reservoir and the North Platte River’s “Miracle Mile”, named for its world-class fishing.

Wyoming Frontier Prison

Built in the late 1800s, Wyoming’s first state prison is now a museum on the National Registry of Historic Places. Take a walking tour, explore the grounds and learn about the history of this prison that housed some 13,500 inmates throughout its operating years and later was a filming location for one of Viggo Mortensen’s first movies.

Alternate Road Trip Idea: Rockies to Tetons

This stunning route can be picked up in Lander on I-287. A hands-down hit for mountain lovers, the route showcases the Wind River Range, Snowy Mountains and Tetons.

Rock Springs

Union pacific depot.

Rock Springs was a transit hub for the Union Pacific Railroad. The Union Pacific Depot was built in 1900, and it now provides a fascinating peek into the lives of immigrants and other settlers who moved to the American West to start a new life.

Green River and Nearby Scenic Drives

Access to recreation-rich Green River can be found between Rock Springs and Fort Bridger. Don’t miss the Pilot Butte Wild Horse Scenic Loop , where about one-third of Wyoming’s wild horses are managed. Looking for another scenic detour? The Flaming Gorge-Green River Basin Scenic Byway is 100 miles of red rocks, gorges and Wyoming peaks.

Natural Corrals Archeological Site

This site was once a temporary home for prehistoric travelers, then as corrals for early settlers. These are also the only ice caves in this region, with ice coating the cave floors through most of the year.

Fort Bridger

Fort bridger state historic site.

Originally a supply stop on the Oregon Trail, this site is now used as a museum and is a designated Wyoming Historical Landmark. You’ll find several buildings restored as they were when it was a military outpost, as well as a museum in the stone barracks building that dates back to 1888.

Bridger Valley Historic Byway

Take a few hours to explore the Bridger Valley Historic Byway , which is 20 miles packed with history at the intersection where the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, the Pony Express Route, Transcontinental Railroad, Old Lincoln Highway and US-30 all met. Take Exit 34 off of I-80, and you’ll get back on the highway at Exit 48 after completing the route.

Bear River State Park

This park is prime for stretching your legs on a walking path, taking the bike out for a spin or snapping photos of the elk and bison that call this place home. Three miles of paved trails are accessible and convenient, and picnic areas are the perfect spot for a lunch break.

Union Pacific Roundhouse

Another building that illustrates the rich history of the Union Pacific Railroad, this is the only complete roundhouse that remains on the old Union Pacific line between Omaha and Sacramento. Dedicated in 1871, the Roundhouse and turntable were built to service large steam engines, and the building was operational until 1971. After that, it was used as a repair station until 1998. Following renovations between 2005 and 2009, the building now serves as an event space.

Alternate Road Trip Idea: Salt to Stone

This culturally rich drive can be picked up at the Evanston Downtown Visitor Center before hopping onto WY-89 and moving north to Yellowstone National Park’s south entrance. Highlights along the way include national monuments, art museums, natural beauty and historical sites. And, if you’re not quite ready for the adventure to end, pick up yet another scenic byway into Star Valley.

Written by Matcha for Wyoming Office of Tourism.

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Interstate 80

I-80 is unique because it merges with I-90 for a while in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. Including this merger, the interstate runs near a whopping 2,900 miles in length!! This makes it the 2nd longest interstate in the nation, coming in just below I-90 by about 120 miles.

I-80 is one of the Big 5 east-to-west interstates (I-90, I-70, I-40 and I-10). Its eastern end is in the Big Apple - New York City ; - and its western end is in the City by the Bay - San Francisco . It is a true east-to-west interstate.

Attractions Near I-80

Interstate 80 is enormous AND passes through several of the largest metropolitan areas found in the United States. With that being said, there are a tremendous number of things to see and do close by. Here are just a sampling of those, from coast to coast:

• Statue of Liberty New York, NY
• Little Italy New York, NY
• Times Square New York, NY
• Lanterman's Mill Youngstown, OH
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Cleveland, OH
• Cleveland Museum of Art Cleveland, OH
• Art Institute of Chicago Chicago, IL
• Pizzeria Uno Chicago, IL
• Navy Pier Chicago, IL
• The Art Institute of Chicago Chicago, IL
• Wells Fargo Museum Des Moines, IA
• Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Omaha, NE
• Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium Omaha, NE
• Cheyenne Botanic Gardens Cheyenne, WY
• Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum Cheyenne, WY
• Museum of Fine Arts Salt Lake City, UT
• Alcatraz Island San Francisco, CA
• Fisherman’s Wharf San Francisco, CA

Construction began in 1956 and ended in 1993. I-90 helped merge several routes including The Ohio Turnpike and Chicago Skyway.

States I-80 Travels Through

I-80 travels through twelve states on its journey from the east to the west coasts. They are listed below, from east to west:

• Pennsylvania

I-80 Major Cities

As mentioned above, I-80 travels through several of the largest cities and metropolitan areas in the United States. These include New York , Chicago , Sacramento and San Francisco .

In addition, there are a number of other fairly large cities along the route, such as Cleveland, Omaha, Reno and Des Moines. There is a plethora of art, history, food and more to be found in these cities, and smaller towns as well!

• New York , New York
• Youngstown, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Toledo, Ohio
• Chicago , Illinois
• Davenport, Iowa
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Cheyenne, Wyoming
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Reno, Nevada
• Sacramento, California
• San Franciso, California

Major Connections & Interchanges

• New York, NY I-95 N to Plymouth, MA and Boston, MA I-95 S to Philadelphia, PA
• Parsippany-Troy Hills, PA I-287 N to Albany, NY
• Drums, PA I-81 N to Wilkes-Barre, PA and Scranton, PA I-81 S to Harrisburg, PA
• Mercer and Grove City, PA I-79 N to Erie, PA I-79 S to Pittsburgh, PA
• Cleveland, OH I-77 N to Downtown Cleveland, OH I-77 S to Canton, OH I-71 S to Columbus, OH
• Elyria, OH Merger with I-90 to Chicago, IL
• Toledo, OH I-75 N to Detroit, MI I-75 S to Dayton, OH
• Fremont, IN I-69 N to Lansing, MI I-69 S to Fort Wayne, IN
• Gary, IN I-65 S to Indianapolis, IN
• Chicago, IL I-57 S to Champaign, IL I-55 S to Springfield, IL
• La Salle, IL I-39 N to Rockford, IL I-39 S to Bloomington, IL
• Des Moines, IA I-35 N to Minneapolis I-35 S to Kansas City, MO
• Omaha, NE I-29 N to Sioux Falls, SD I-29 S to Kansas City, MO
• Cheyenne, WY I-25 N to Billings, MT I-25 S to Denver, CO
• Salt Lake City, UT I-15 N to Idaho Falls, ID I-15 S to Las Vegas, NV
• Sacramento, CA I-5 N to Portland, OR I-5 S to Los Angeles, CA

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21 Great Nebraska Road Trip Stops (Including I-80 Attractions)

Road tripping across Nebraska can be long and boring if you don’t have a plan for rest stops (other than “to get to the other side”). Interstate 80 cuts through Nebraska, running east to west and surrounded by mostly flat farmland. If you stick just to the interstate rest stops and visitor centers you’d think Nebraska is pretty dull. Plan a few road trip stops, though, and see a more interesting side to the state.

Stops along Interstate 80

For this route, we’re heading east to west. Most stops are fairly close to the interstate, though a few are a couple miles from it but they’re worth it.

Nebraska I-80 Road Trip Stops

Kenefick Park

Where : 100 Bancroft St., Omaha

Omaha is a city that needs a day or two to really see the highlights. If you only want a single road trip stop that captures part of Omaha’s history, I recommend Kenefick Park, which commemorates the city’s history and connection to the railroads.

It’s next to Lauritzen Gardens, which could be an additional stop. Allow about an hour if you only stay indoors in the conservatory . Allow at least two hours if you're going to explore the grounds (which I recommend).

Omaha's Old Market

Where : 13th to 10th streets along Howard Street, Omaha

If you have more time, like an hour or so, visit Omaha’s Old Market. Local shops, a record store, great restaurants , and boutiques line the brick streets.

Holy Family Shrine

Where: 23132 Pflug Road, Gretna

The gorgeous architectural wonder overlooks Interstate 80 from a grassy hill. It’s a shrine and chapel, yes, but you don’t have to follow a particular religion to enjoy it.

Nebraska Crossing Outlets

Where: 21209 Nebraska Crossing Drive, Gretna

For a longer pit stop, one of the few outlet malls in the state are located in Gretna. You can’t really miss the place along I-80. Outlets include Kate Spade, Under Armor, and Gap.

Salt Creek Mercantile and Postscript

Where : 1502 Silver St. and 1434 Silver St., Ashland

These two shops will charm you right when you enter their doors. The mercantile sells farmhouse style home decor and Postscript is a letter-writer’s dream.

Nebraska's Wildlife Safari Park

Where : 16406 292nd St., Ashland

While this will certainly add to the time you spend in the car, it’s a fun place to visit. You’ll drive a bison range and come awfully close to Sandhill cranes. There is a place to park and take a short hike to see bears and wolves.

You're also not far from Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (28210 W. Park Highway) if you're looking for an indoor activity in Ashland.

Where: 113 E. Sixth St., York

Grab snacks or tasty gifts to bring home at GoodyPop. The gourmet popcorn comes in a variety of flavors and it’s nearly impossible to leave without picking out a few.

Fort Kearny State Historical Park

Where : 1020 V Road, Kearney

Stretch your legs and check out an old military fort here. This is a particularly good stop for those with kids who need to run off some energy.

Great Platte River Road Archway Monument

Where : 3060 E. First St., Kearney

You’ll pass under the museum but don’t worry, the exit for it is past the museum (well, if you’re heading east to west). Learn about pioneer and plains history here. Allow for this to be a longer stop.

Pony Express Station

Where : 510 15th St., Gothenburg

This quick stop — the Pony Express cabin that housed the stop is teeny tiny — will offer a glimpse into a little known morsel of Nebraska history.

Fort Cody Trading Post

Where: 221 Halligan Drive, North Platte

I’ve got to have at least one tourist trap on this list. Don’t worry, I’m pretty sure the Trading Post embrace sthe fact. Get your Wild West souvenirs here, plus see the 20,000 hand-carved figures in the Buffalo Bill’s Wild West in Miniature display.

Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park

Where : 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road, North Platte

The Trading Post is so close to the interstate, it’s tempting skip the actual, official Cody site in the town. It’s a bit further from the interstate, yes, but you can have a glimpse at the life of one of the U.S.’s most intriguing personalities as you explore the farmstead.

The Grainery

Where: 111 S. Oak St., Paxton

This little ice cream and coffee shop is housed in a former grain elevator and it’s every bit as rustic and cute as you could imagine. The owner is pretty nice, too.

Peak Inside Ann Marie’s Antiques next door while you’re there.

Ole's Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge

Where : 123 N. Oak St., Paxton

For a longer stop in Paxton, like a hearty dinner, go to the quirky Ole’s. I say quirky because some people are a little put off by all the taxidermied animals watching you as you eat. It’s a memorable meal.

A few of Nebraska’s most iconic landmarks — Chimney Rock, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Courthouse & Jail Rocks — are several miles north of Interstate 80 in this part of Nebraska. Having waited until I was over 40 to see Chimney Rock, I can say it’s worth taking the extra hour or so to go see them.

They’re impressive and it’s the type of landscape that you don’t see in the rest of Nebraska.

The Potter Sundry

Where: 324 Chestnut St., Potter

I never seem to time it right when I’m passing by Potter. It’s home to the Tin Roof Sundae and you can get it at The Potter Sundry. Of course, I’m always getting there after-hours, but one day, I’ll have this treat.

Stops along Highway 20

If you don’t have time constraints for crossing Nebraska, consider taking the more northern route of Highway 20. It’ll take you through smaller towns and the iconic Sandhills . Here are a few stops along the way.

Highway 20 Stops In Nebraska

Sioux City Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center

Where : 900 Larsen Park Road, Sioux City, Iowa

The techincally in Iowa, I'm including a stop in Sioux City because when we drive this route from Omaha to Western Nebraska, we almost always stop there. Besides, South Sioux City is in Nebraska.

For a fairly quick but hands-on and educational experience, visit the interpretive cetner to learn about the region's connection to Lewis & Clark.

If want a shorter stop (for candy), consider visiting Palmer Candy , home to the Twin Bing.

Klown Doll Museum

Where : 306 W. Park Ave., Plainview

One of Nebraska's odder, off-the-beaten path museums, the Klown Doll Museum in Plainview showcases the results of a collection that took more than 50 years to build.

Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park

Where: 86930 517th Ave., Royal

While it's a little ways off the highway, Ashfall is an active fossil dig site that makes the extrta time worth it. The bones of rhinos, three-toed horses, camels, and more are well prepared due to being buried by volcanic ash.

Smith Falls State Park

Where : 90165 Smith Falls Road, Valentine

Every summer in my childhood, we made the trek to Valentine to canoe the scenic Niobrara River. We'd always stop at Smith Falls State Park to get pictures of (and pictures in) the waterfall.

A half-day float trip is certainly more than a quick road trip pit stop, though. So, I recommend planning a stop to see Smith Falls, Nebraska's tallest waterfall.

Bean Broker Coffee House & Pub

Where : 202 W. Second St., Chadron

While Chadron is home to the state's first state park (Chadron State Park - pictured), a quick road trip stop I recommend is the Bean Broker. Sure, I'm always up for a coffee stop, but the Bean Broker was an unexpected gem in Chadron that i have to tell everyone about.

Fort Robinson State Park

Where: 3200 US Highway 20, Crawford

Depending on the time you allow at the park, you can do anything from taking a stagecoach ride to off-road jeep tours, float trips and chuckwagon dinners. The classic experience, though, is a horseback trail ride.

For shorter stops, visit the natural history display and check out the historical buildings.

How far are Nebraska landmarks from the interstate?

I was well into my fourth decade of life before I saw Chimney Rock . Why did it take so long? It’s a little off the beaten path. OK, it’s a lot off the beaten path.

But, it’s a sight I recommend not just every Nebraskan see. Everyone passing through Nebraska should see it, if only to start to understand the role the state played in the pioneering history of America.

Still, a visit to Chimney Rock or any of the following landmarks isn’t as easy as a quick exit off the interstate.

Chimney Rock

Where: 9822 County Road 75, Bayard

Chimney Rock was the most recognizable landmark along the Oregon Trail. It’s located in the Panhandle of Nebraska, which is about 430 miles away. That’s a long drive (just imagine how the pioneers felt).

But let’s say you’re already driving out west along Interstate 80. How long does it take to get to then?

Well, when you reach Ogallala, you will need to take Highway 26/NE 92 westward toward Bayard. The drive is a little more than 103 miles.

As you drive Highway 26, be sure to look for Jail and Courthouse Rocks . They are two additional landmarks that pioneers spotted along their journey.

The Chimney Rock Visitor Center is located 1.5 miles south of Highway 92 on Chimney Rock Road near the town of Bayard. There is no charge to visit, and you can still enjoy the view of Chimney Rock even when the visitor center is closed.

Related post: 14 National Parks & National Monuments in Nebraska

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Where : 190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering

Scotts Bluff National Monument is located in the same region as Chimney Rock, and in fact, you follow the same route for it, as well, if you’re traveling along Interstate 80.

When you turn west onto Highway 26/NE 92 at Ogallala, you’ll drive a little more than 120 miles.

The monument is part of the National Park Service and spans more than 3,000 acres. There is no charge to visit.

Smith Falls

Where : 90159 Smith Falls Road, Valentine

The state’s largest waterfall is located in Smith Falls State Park . Being a waterfall and all, it’s not exactly accessible to interstate or highway traffic.

Here’s how to get there: Driving Highway 20, you’ll turn onto Highway 7 North when you reach the town of Bassett. From there, it’s about 24 miles to reach U.S. Highway 183 North. Drive that for 2 miles, and then turn onto NE 12 West for 37 miles. In all, it’s about 63 miles from the main highway.

Snake River Falls

Where : 23 miles southwest of Valentine on Highway 97 

Snake River Falls is considered to be located in Valentine, but it’s considerably southwest of Valentine. To get there, drive Highway 20 into Valentine, and then turn onto NE 97 South for 23 miles until you reach your destination.

It’s a beautiful waterfall, but there are a few things to remember:

• Snake River Falls is located on private property and isn’t open to fishing, swimming, hiking or camping.
• You can view the falls from two roped-off viewing points that are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The fee is $1 per person.
• The public viewing points are temporarily closed due to the coronavirus until further notice. Doublecheck here to see if it has reopened.

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7 Best Free Campsites Along Interstate 80

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on July 31, 2022

The word “free” is music to almost every RVer’s ears. If you’re looking for free campsites while traveling along the 2,906 miles of I-80, you’re in luck because there are plenty of great options.

We’ve found the best free campsites on Interstate 80 between San Francisco, California, and Teaneck, New Jersey. If your travels take you along this route, you might want to consider stopping at some of these great spots! Let’s dive in!

What to Know About Free Camping

Free camping spots typically sit on public lands paid for by American tax dollars. Camping on these lands is often referred to as boondocking. There aren’t any amenities like power, water, or waste disposal. If you choose to set up camp at one of these spots, you’ll need to be self-sufficient and follow all the rules and regulations for the site.

These sites are first-come, first-served, meaning site availability is never guaranteed. It may be too late if you wait until the weekend to find a spot. It’s essential to research and have several options available in case one doesn’t work out. It’s also vital to have a backup plan because access to these locations can change quickly due to road conditions.

Everyone using these campsites is responsible for cleaning up after themselves. There are no camp hosts to come through and ensure campers took all of the gear or disposed of their trash properly.

Careless campers have completely ruined campsites due to trashing them during their stay. Everyone must practice Leave No Trace and always leave their campsites better than they found them.

Pro Tip: Use our Interstate 80 Road Trip Guide when planning your cross-country adventure.

These Are Important Tools When You’re Boondocking

Being vital is essential if you plan to have a smooth boondocking adventure. Let’s look at some important tools you should consider having when boondocking.

You’re going to need power while boondocking. A portable generator is a great option for consistently creating massive power. These are great ways to quickly charge your RV’s battery bank and use power-hungry devices like microwaves, air conditioners, and coffee makers.

Generators come in various sizes, so make sure you factor in how much power you’ll use during your boondocking adventures. Many RVers choose inverter generators that provide around 3,500 starting watts and 3,000 running watts.

This is enough to keep an air conditioner running and still have plenty of power for other items you might need to use. However, you’ll need to manage which heavy-duty appliances you use simultaneously to avoid overloading your generator.

Solar Panels

Upgrading to solar panels can be an expensive project to tackle. However, the benefits of having solar panels mean keeping your RV’s batteries charged anytime the sun is shining. Depending on the weather conditions, you may still need a generator to top off your batteries. Solar panels harness power from the sun and send them to devices that transform them into usable power for an RV battery bank.

Cell Booster

Some of the best free campsites are often in very remote locations. This means that staying connected can be challenging. A cell booster is a must-have item for many who frequently camp in these locations. Cell boosters aren’t magical and create a signal for your favorite cellular provider. However, if you’re in an area where the signal is weak, they can often greatly improve the quality and strength of a signal.

Cell boosters can help improve your signal, increase speeds, and most importantly, keep you connected. Staying connected while camping is essential as you never know what might happen or when you’ll have an emergency. You may not need a cell booster at every free campsite, but you’ll be glad you have one if you do.

First Aid Kit

You want to have a well-stocked first-aid kit while you’re camping. This can be useful for treating minor wounds and ailments. They can also help buy you time until medical professionals arrive in more serious accidents. You don’t want to go to use your first-aid kit and discover that it’s empty. So, check your first-aid kit before every trip to avoid finding yourself in a difficult situation when you want to use it.

There’s an enormous amount of free campsites along Interstate 80. If you’re traveling through one of the 11 states that I-80 calls home, you might consider stopping at one of these campsites.

#1 Parker Flat Campground

GPS : 39.1289, -120.7635

About the Campsite : This is a popular staging area for those who want to enjoy their off-highway vehicles (OHVs). While there may be more traffic during the day from locals getting out into the wilderness on their motorcycles and other toys, it clears out at night. You may even have the entire spot to yourself. It’s incredibly secluded, quiet, and surrounded by beautiful trees.

There are barbecue areas, bathrooms, and a dump station nearby. This is a seasonal camping location and is available from May through October. However, check the road conditions as fallen trees can close roads until rangers can clear the debris.

Reported Cell Service : There’s no reported cell service for any of the major carriers.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.5/10 – A private and secluded campground 

rather undiscovered. Great for those looking to do some off-roading in their OHV!

#2 Bloody Shins Trailhead

GPS : 40.9703, -117.6963

About the Campsite : The campsites at Bloody Shins Trailhead tend to get a bit busy by the end of the day. Camping here is a great option for those who enjoy extreme mountain biking. Despite its name, there are mountain biking options for more than just elite mountain bikers. This is a large open lot that’s frequented by those on the mountain biking trails. However, the area clears out once the sun sets for the night.

There are no facilities here, but if you’re looking for a safe place to park for the night and enjoy a beautiful view, you’ll love it. There are some picnic tables available, but that’s about it. However, what it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in space and quiet.

Reported Cell Service : Users report getting two and three bars of service for Verizon and AT&T services. However, speeds with Verizon for many users were incredibly fast.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.6/10 – If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded place to camp for the night in north-central Nevada, this is it! Easy access for all-size rigs and plenty of privacy! 

#3 Water Canyon Recreation Area

GPS : 40.9295, -117.6736

About the Campsite : This is a great area to set up camp for a night or two. There are fire rings, grills, trails, and shelters throughout the recreation area. You’ll also find three vault toilets that users state are much cleaner than you might expect. There are also dumpsters available, so make sure all your garbage finds its way into them. Roads in and out are very well maintained and, as a result, are very easy to navigate.

The eight campsites are well-defined spots that are obvious. Due to the limited availability, it’s wise to arrive early to snag a site. We recommend arriving before 5:00 p.m. to avoid finding yourself without a place to stay. The maximum stay limit is three days, so ensure you don’t overstay your welcome.

Reported Cell Service : Users from T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon report three bars. 

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.7/10 – Very secluded campsites with tremendous privacy. We only wish more sites were available, but it would take away from the privacy that makes this site special.

#4 Dugway Campground

GPS : 41.8601, -107.0565

About the Campsite : This is a small camping area with five campsites, one of which is a pull-through site. Most of the sites are big-rig friendly. You’ll find a vault toilet, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground provides easy access to the North Platte River, which is great for fly fishing for trout and floating. This hidden gem hasn’t hit the radar for many boondockers passing through the area. However, once it does, it’ll fill up fast.

Reported Cell Service : Very little cell service among all major carriers. You’ll want to use a cell booster, especially if you depend on a quality connection. However, don’t expect blazing speeds.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.4/10 – Paved roads, good scenery, and a maximum stay of 14 days? It’s hard to complain!

#5 Coyote Cove Campground

GPS : 40.6591, -115.7533

About the Campsite : This campground sits on the south bank of the South Fork Reservoir. There is a nearby campground, but Coyote Cove Campground is a better option because it’s level, free, and provides easy access to the lake. If that’s not enough, you’ll enjoy a better view of the Ruby mountains in the distance. If you’re looking for a great place to float around on a SUP board or kayak, this is a great place to stay!

Reported Cell Service : Users report four bars between AT&T and Verizon. You won’t have to worry about whether you’ll be able to stay connected for work or with your loved ones here.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.8/10 – The best option for staying on the South Fork Reservoir for free. Easy access from I-80 and plenty of space to spread out during your stay.

#6 Bonneville Salt Flats

GPS : 40.7723, -113.9812

About the Campsite : This free camping location provides plenty of camping options. It’s a flat and barren area that provides plenty of space for those looking to camp to spread out and enjoy themselves. However, the vast open land means there’s no shade. It can get warm quickly in the summer months.

This is boondocking at its finest, but there are no amenities. You’ll need to come prepared to be 100% self-sufficient for power, water, and disposing of your waste. Bring your pet with you and enjoy exploring this incredible area with them!

Reported Cell Service : Great service and blazing speeds from all major providers! You likely won’t have any issues staying connected.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 8.9/10 – You won’t have to worry about not finding a spot here! You’re just a few minutes from the actual site of the Bonneville Salt Flats.

#7 Government Gully Road Dispersed Camping

GPS : 41.2555, -105.4618

About the Campsite : If you’re looking for a free campsite with a view, it doesn’t get much better than Government Gully Road Dispersed Camping. There are no amenities, but plenty of campsites with incredible views down into the city of Laramie. Sites can be unlevel, so ensure you come prepared with leveling blocks and patience to get your camper level.

When you arrive at Government Gully, there are several campsites at the base of the area. However, some of the best views are from sites at the top of a large hill. The road ends at a large gravel lot. Several RVs can fit into the lot and have plenty of room. While there might not be a dump station on-site, there’s fresh water and a great dump station at the Historical Ft. Laramie. It’s only 10 minutes or so from the site.

Reported Cell Service : Excellent service from all major carriers! You’ll likely have no trouble streaming shows or getting work done here.

Interstate 80 Boondocking Vibes : 9/10 – The views and camping here are amazing. Be mindful that the campground sits at approximately 8,600 feet. If you’re coming from the east, it’s quite a climb in elevation, and anyone who suffers from altitude sickness may need time to adjust.

Pro Tip: Finding good free camping is an art form. Use these Tips and Techniques to make it easy!

Save Money and Enjoy Yourself for Free

Camping for free is a great way to save money. This type of camping is gaining in popularity, especially considering the price of gas these days. If you’re planning a road trip that involves Interstate 80, these campsites are worth considering. You can enjoy some incredible spots without spending a penny on them. Let us know if you check out one of these spots! We’d love to hear how you enjoyed your stay and what memories you made at them!

Which one of these free campsites on Interstate 80 would you want to stay at first? Tell us in the comments!

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you,  we hate paying for camping . There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours.  Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state).  Access the list by submitting your email below:

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N.J.’s 20 most beautiful drives, for a perfect spring getaway

Editor’s note: This story was first published in 2019 and has been updated.

Spring is here, and it’s time to get out of the house and hit the road!

New Jersey is the nation’s most highway-intensive state — no surprise there — and most of our major roads and highways are a nonstop horror show. Route 80, the Turnpike, Parkway, Route 3 — need I go on? But still, this small, unglamorous state is packed with sensational stretches of asphalt, which make for perfect spring/summer road trips.

My 20 most scenic roads can be found all over New Jersey, from the wilds of Sussex and Passaic counties to the empty, beautiful corners of Cumberland and Salem counties. The Shore’s represented, too, and so is a 3.5 mile white-knuckle highway to hell that is many a Jerseyan’s least favorite road.

My roads offer scenic beauty, peace and quiet, three things we all could use right now. These aren’t necessarily the prettiest roads in New Jersey, just the most scenic and picturesque. There’s always something to see, and they reveal New Jersey in all its diversity and uniqueness.

Route 519, Colesville to Rosemont

No other Jersey road packs as much scenery as Route 519, which snakes its way from the top of the state all the way to Rosemont, just north of Stockton. The Land of Make Believe (re-opens Memorial Day weekend), just off 519 in Hope, is an apt metaphor for this highway, as it twists and turns through a Jersey you may have forgotten still exists. The town names are fun and fanciful — Alpha, Harmony, Plumbsock and Beemerville, home to roadside attraction Goliath, the world’s largest (and extremely well-preserved) bear. The highway’s winding route is road made for motorcycles and stick shifts.

Ocean Drive, Ocean City to North Wildwood

The best drive Down the Shore (what, you thought it was the Parkway?), this local road winds through Strathmere (with that Jersey rarity, a free beach!), Sea Isle City, Avalon and Stone Harbor before ending at Nummy Island and Grassy Sound. The most picturesque sections of the road — much of it known as Ocean Drive — vault over marsh and water through a series of toll bridges. Which are blissfully free of traffic this time of year. Stop at Corson’s Inlet State Park between Ocean City and Strathmere, with the state’s least-known beach and a first-rate restaurant/bar, Twisties. Forget your GPS; just follow the gull — the bird appears on Ocean Drive signs. One fairly recent development: E-ZPass is now accepted on the Ocean Drive bridges.

Route 29, Washington Crossing State Park to Frenchtown

Start at Washington Crossing State Park, with its leafy, lovely views along the Delaware, and then head north; you can pull over at several points and cross footbridges to the D&R Canal Towpath. You can even explore an island — Bulls Island Recreation Area, just north of Stockton. Two other charming small towns are along the way — Lambertville and Frenchtown. In all three towns, you can walk across the bridge into Pennsylvania.

Old Mine Road, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

One of the country’s oldest commercial roads, Old Mine Road was built in the mid-1600s, providing a vital conduit for area farmers to get their crops to market. Today, it’s a lovely and often lonely 40-mile stretch of woods, wilds and waterfalls through Warren and Sussex counties. Take a short side trip to Walpack Center, the town that time forgot.

Route 542, New Gretna to Hammonton

Other roads take you deeper into the marvelous, mysterious Pine Barrens but no route is more pleasant than 542. Start in New Gretna and head west. Batsto Village, the historic site that should be on every Jerseyan’s bucket list is along the way (it’s okay to admit you’ve never been there), and so is Wading River, Leektown and Crowleytown. I’ve been down this road dozens of times and often have it to myself. It ends, somewhat abruptly, at Route 30 (the White Horse Pike), a jarring reminder you’ve passed from near-wilderness to “civilization.’’ One must-visit: The Lower Bank Tavern , my favorite Piney bar.

Henry Hudson Drive, Palisades Interstate Park

Birders love State Line Lookout in Palisades Interstate Park, which offers jaw-dropping views over the Hudson River. Just south, at park headquarters, begins Henry Hudson Drive, a memorable, meandering and vertiginous roller coaster ride. Those afraid of heights, or who shudder at the thought of mere stone walls keeping you from plunging hundreds of feet into the river, would do well to stay away. You also need to watch out for bicyclists, hikers and falling rock. The road eventually levels off and ends just south of the George Washington Bridge.

Route 539, Allentown to Tuckerton

This was once the “secret” back way to the shore; it’s a secret no more, not with the steady stream of traffic, especially in the summer. At the south end, you’ll drive through the deliciously desolate Pine Barrens; at the north end is Allentown, one of Jersey’s great small towns. In between are country churches, farms, one race track (New Egypt Speedway), one bombing range (Warren Grove), multiple Wawas and a great luncheonette (Lucille’s Country Cooking).

The Pulaski Skyway, Jersey City to Newark

I know what you’re thinking: Are you crazy? The Skyway? Forget the detractors and doomsters who want it torn down; this is Jersey’s greatest thrill ride, several miles of pure charm or chaos, depending on how you look at it. It snakes and slithers over a shadowy world of warehouses, power lines, container ship depots, smokestacks, train tracks, truck stops, bars, a jail and a sewage treatment plant. It’s so Jersey, and not Jersey at all. Jimmy Hoffa may be buried down there, and I want to be. The view is breathtaking on either side; the Skyway is the state’s grittiest, most glorious sight. And quite a ride.

Route 553/Back Neck Road, Port Norris to Sea Breeze

At the other extreme from the Skyway is this spare stretch of road to the end of Jersey. Start at humble Port Norris and Shellpile/Bivalve, home to a Rutgers shellfish research lab and the A.J. Meerwald , the state’s official tall ship, at the Bayshore Center at Bivalve. Follow 553 to Back Neck Road and make a left onto Sea Breeze Road, which dead-ends at Delaware Bay. It may be the state’s most desolate spot, about as far from “Jersey’' as you can get — the lonely, moody end of the line.

Route 513, West Milford to Frenchtown

Start at the NJ/NY state line and wind your way down to Hunterdon County, passing through a colorful cross-section of Jersey — woods, wilds, water, suburbia, small towns, farms and more. Newfoundland is home to an old train station, along 513, that’s featured in the movie “The Station Agent.’’ Don’t miss the “telephone pole farm’' — a former AT&T testing area — in Chester, and that town’s specialty store-studded Main Street, which is 513.

Long Valley may be the state’s most splendidly situated town. There will always be a soft spot in my heart for Clinton; I once lived above a jewelry store on Main Street. The town, with its oft-photographed red mill and bridge over the south branch of the Raritan River, is worth a trip on its own.

Skyline Drive, Oakland and Ringwood

Skyline Drive, a 5.8-mile drive from Route 287 to Route 511 in Oakland and Ringwood, offers good views from the car, but even better ones if you park and hike — not far — into the woods in Ramapo Mountain State Forest . A walk down any of the trails reveals many places of quiet beauty. One note: watch out for bears. Check out the abandoned water tower near the lower parking lot on Skyline Drive, just off exit 57 of Route 287.

Route 521, Montague to Hope

It doesn’t offer the same verve and variety as nearby Route 519, but 521 may be the state’s loopiest road — up and down and around, like some motoring thrill ride. At its north end, it winds through a magic kingdom of state parks, lakes and streams. The Old Stillwater General Store (now Garriss General Store), just off 521, is the state’s oldest-running general store; it opened in 1876. For a great side trip, head over to Route 615 and Walpack Center, the town that time forgot.

Route 563, Green Bank to Chatsworth

Maybe no other road reveals the Pine Barrens better than Route 563, a long stretch of mostly lonesome that takes in state forests, cranberry bogs, campgrounds and hamlets. Start at Green Bank, on the Mullica River, and head north, though Wharton State Forest. A good eye will spot Jenkins Chapel (photo), maybe the state’s smallest church. A little further on you’ll reach Chatsworth, the Pine Barrens’ unofficial capital. The road dead-ends at Route 72 and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest , formerly known as Lebanon State Forest.

Port Imperial Boulevard, Weehawken

It’s short and sweet, but the views of Manhattan from Port Imperial Boulevard are sensational. Several swanky apartment complexes are along the way, including The Landings at Port Imperial and RiversEdge at Port Imperial, and the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal provides ferries to midtown Manhattan. At the southern end is the fabulous Weehawkin Waterfront Park , with a track, three tennis courts and a riverfront walk.

Route 49, Deepwater to Tuckahoe

This road is a long, straight slice of South Jersey. For a quick, unforgettable detour, follow Chestnut Street in the town of Salem four miles to its end — Delaware Bay. The Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Station is off to the left, and there’s a vest-pocket park at Elsinboro Point where you can watch the world — tankers mostly — go by.

Ocean Boulevard, Atlantic Highlands

From Atlantic Highlands, Ocean Boulevard climbs up, up, up, with boats, bay, ocean, the New York skyline and homes most of us can only ever dream about along the way. A must-visit is the Mt. Mitchill Scenic Overlook , which, at 266 feet above sea level, is the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard (not counting islands). It’s named after naturalist and botanist Samuel Mitchill. On a clear day from Mount Mitchill, you’re treated to a panoramic sweep of Sandy Hook Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the New York City skyline. The Monmouth County 9/11 Memorial is located here.

Route 40, Pennsville to Atlantic City

I love Route 40: from A.C. to the Delaware Memorial Bridge, it’s rural New Jersey as its most picturesque and representative, dotted with small towns, farms, roadside stands, a vintage car dealership (South Jersey Classics, in photo), the nation’s oldest continuously-operating rodeo ( Cowtown , in Pilesgrove, also home to N.J.’s best bar) and more. It’s a long, lazy drive. You want fast, get on the Atlantic City Expressway; you want scenic, meander down Route 40.

Great Bay Boulevard, Little Egg Harbor

Little Egg Harbor — not to be confused with Egg Harbor City or Egg Harbor Township — is in southernmost Ocean County. It manages to be both a Shore town and Piney town, with bay views and deep pockets of woods. Just past Tuckerton Seaport and the Wawa in Tuckerton, head down Great Bay Boulevard, a long stretch of moody lonesome once you get past the scattering of homes. There’s marsh and bay and birds, LBI and Atlantic City in the distance, and an overwhelming sense you’re not in New Jersey anymore. The Rutgers University Marine Field Statio n, at the end of the road, is shown in the photo.

Route 206, Byram to Montague

Route 206 is an under-appreciated Jersey road, a long, mostly straight stretch from Hammonton to Trenton, Princeton and Lawrenceville, then Pluckemin, Peapack, Chester, Andover and beyond. Above Newton, it’s especially picturesque, with markets, farms and woods. One must-stop: Gyp’s Tavern in Sandyston (photo), one of the state’s great dive bars.

Garden State Parkway, milepost 49 to 0

Wait, what, the Parkway? Everyone’s most reviled highway? Hate to break it to you, but for nearly a third of its 172-mile length, the Garden State Parkway is scenic if not downright beautiful. It all starts at milepost 49 (photo), around New Gretna and Port Republic, where the road arcs over a breathtaking expanse of water, marsh and sky; more of the same is encountered, with a few exceptions, all the way to the highway’s end (which, by the way, is not in Cape May). This “other Parkway’' is so far removed from the chaos and congestion up north that it’s surreal.

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Peter Genovese may be reached at [email protected] . On Twitter, @petegenovese. On Instagram, @peteknowsjersey a nd @themunchmobile.

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit nj.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Interstate 84 (Western)

Looking east from the Vista House, Interstate 84 follows the Columbia River Highway toward Cascade Locks and Hood River. The freeway hugs the south bank of the massive river, much the same way as Washington State Route 14 hugs the north bank. As the main route east across Oregon, I-84 stays close to the river while the Historic Columbia River Highway (former U.S. 30) follows higher ground along a much more winding course. 08/27/06

The western Interstate 84 is the primary route linking the northwestern cities of Salt Lake City, Boise and Portland. This one of two instances of Interstate 84; the other runs east from Scranton, Pennsylvania to Sturbridge, Massachusetts via New York and Connecticut.

Interstate 84 in Portland is known as the Banfield Expressway; it is named after a former head of the Oregon Highway Commission. The stretch east from Portland through the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic sections of Interstate Highway in the entire system.

Parallel U.S. Routes

Interstate 84 largely follows U.S. 30 from Portland east to Rupert, Idaho. East of Rupert, U.S. 30 used to split into two branches: U.S. 30N and U.S. 30S. I-84 replaced U.S. 30S from Rupert southeast to Echo Junction via Ogden, Utah.

Idaho and Utah proposed the renumbering of Interstate 80N as Interstate 86, but the Oregon State Transportation Commission turned down the request on May 17, 1977. Reasons cited included costs, which were estimated at $100,000 to replace all of the signs, and also that businesses that were advertised as being along Interstate 80 North would be upset by the need to readvertise their location. 1

Idaho also proposed renumbering Interstate 15W as I-84 between I-80N and Pocatello. That was conditionally approved by the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHTO) as Interstate 86 on July 6, 1977, as Interstate 84 was instead applied to I-80N across Idaho, Oregon and Utah. A Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) announcement followed on August 13, 1977, indicating that approval was granted by AASHTO to renumber the freeway as I-84. UDOT director Blaine J. Kay said renumbering the route would eliminate confusion between the I-80 mainline in Utah and the northwesterly I-80N, following the transportation officials effort to eliminate duplication of numbers which are modified by letter additions. 2 The Idaho Department of Transportation followed with an announcement regarding the AASHTO approval in November 1977. Officials indicated that conversion to I-84 was to be completed prior to July 1, 1980. 3

The freeway was completed within Oregon in 1975, but it still had several Super Two sections, including the segments from Boardman (Exit 164) to Stanfield Junction (Exit 188) and the Pendleton Bypass. These segments were upgraded to full Interstate standards with four lanes by 1980.

Within Oregon, Interstate 80N followed Columbia River Highway Number 2, which was also known as Oregon Highway 2. The Interstate was constructed in the Beaver State in stages commencing in 1963. One of the first segments of I-80N to be completed was the section between the city of Portland and The Dalles. This section was largely complete in 1963 but not finalized due to the narrow terrain until 1969. East of The Dalles, U.S. 30 was initially improved to expressway standards in the 1950s, but Interstate upgrades did not begin until after 1966 on this section. The freeway was considered fully constructed on July 3, 1980, with the completion of a segment of freeway near Baker City. 4

Interstate 84 follows the Banfield Expressway through Portland. This freeway was constructed prior to the implementation of Interstate standards, and it would have required a costly retrofit to modernize the highway. As a result, a new route was suggested for Interstate 84. The proposed reroute of I-84 through eastern Portland between Interstate 5 and Interstate 205 would have followed the unbuilt “Mount Hood Freeway” instead of the Banfield Expressway. In the mid 1960s, various alternate alignments were considered for the Mount Hood Freeway, which would have been about five miles in length.

The alignment selected for this freeway was known as “Division-Powell” corridor because it was to have followed U.S. 26 (Powell Boulevard). To facilitate connecting the Mount Hood Freeway with existing Interstate 80N east of I-205, a 2.5 mile long overlap with Interstate 205 would be required. In 1968, the Oregon Department of Transportation tried to obtain approval for this proposed routing. As local communities became aware of the freeway’s proposed impact in established neighborhoods, a lawsuit was filed in 1972 in the U.S. District Court. The lawsuit demanded additional corridor studies and a full Environmental Impact Statement for this project.

Route Information

• East End – Echo, UT

West End – Portland, OR

• Branch Routes – 1

Total Mileage – 768.29

Oregon – 375.17

• Cities – Portland, Hood River, The Dalles, Pendleton, La Grande, Baker, Ontario

Idaho – 275.74

• Cities – Caldwell, Napa, Boise, Mountain Home, Jerome, Twin Falls, Burley

Utah – 117.38*

• Cities – Brigham City, Ogden

Source: December 31, 2021 Interstate Route Log and Finders List * – 35.98 miles on I-15

The last two sections of U.S. 30 to be upgraded to Interstate standards were stretches through Umatilla Indian Reservation and between La Grande and North Powder in eastern Oregon. Additionally a Super-Two portion of freeway ran south from U.S. 30N / OR 201 (Exit 356) to the Idaho state line.

Interstate 80N stretched east from the Oregon state line to Boise and from South Federal Way near Exit 57 to Mountain Home in Idaho. The two sections were linked by late 1969.

Interstate 80N was completed east from U.S. 89, south of Ogden, to Devils Slide by 1969. A stub of I-80N also connected I-15 with SR 26, shown here as U.S. 89 as well, at what is now a SPUI.

Button copy overheads posted ahead of the westbound split of I-80 and I-80N at Echo, Utah. Photo by Michael Summa, 1976.

As a result of this controversy coupled with the nationwide energy crisis at that time, the Portland City Council voted to withdraw its approval of the Mount Hood Freeway on July 25, 1974. By July 1975, the freeway was withdrawn by the department of transportation, and the Interstate funds were reallocated to other projects. 4

Within Idaho, the final section of Interstate 84 built was the stretch through Caldwell. The route formerly took traffic through the middle of the city through what was regarded as an infamous traffic light. With construction of I-84 in the final stages through Caldwell in August 1983, the signal was removed from the corridor. Final paving of the main lanes for the last two mile stretch in Idaho commenced in September, with overall completion of the project in July 1984. 5

The Utah stretch of Interstate 84 across Blue Creek Summit was the last to be built along the entire freeway. The 9.8 mile long segment was dedicated on September 25, 1986. 6

 Photo Guides

East end – echo, utah.

The final reassurance marker for Interstate 84 east appears beyond the Henefer town limits. 07/13/16

The first in a series of diagrammatic signs outlining the single lane ramps (Exits 120A/B) for Interstates 80 at Echo Junction. 07/16/17

Interstate 80 enters Echo Junction from Evanston, Wyoming, 33 miles to the east. The freeway turns south from I-84 to Coalville, Silver Creek Junction and Park City before resuming a westward heading through Parleys Canyon and Salt Lake Valley. 07/13/16

The agricultural areas of Henefer Valley give way to hills west of Echo Dam and south of Echo Canyon. I-80 traverses Echo Canyon along a remote stretch to the Wyoming state line. 07/13/16

Sign changes made at the east end of I-84 assigned Exits 120A/B for the ramps to Interstate 80. Previously only the westbound ramp was assigned as Exit 120. 07/13/16

Interstate 84 ends as traffic partitions for I-80 east to Cheyenne, Wyoming and I-80 southwest to Salt Lake City. 07/16/17

Interstate 80 continues north from the Echo Reservoir view area 1.75 miles to the east end of I-84. 07/05/16

Interstate 80 runs along the western periphery of Echo Reservoir from Coalville to Exit 168 with I-84 west. 07/05/16

A directional T interchange (Exit 168) joins I-80 and I-84 at the mouth of Echo Canyon. 07/05/16

Exit 186 departs from Interstate 80 east for I-84 northwest through Henefer Valley and Devils Slide. Cheyenne, Wyoming is located 390 miles to the east. 07/05/16

I-80 west and unmarked U.S. 189 south reach Exit 169 to Echo Dam Road just ahead of the split with Interstate 84. 07/11/15

An auxiliary lane opens along I-80 west from Echo Canyon Road (old U.S. 30S) to Exit 168. Interstate 84 travels northwest from Echo Junction to Morgan, Ogden, Boise, and Portland among other communities in the northern Rockies and Pacific Northwestern states. 07/16/17

A Union Pacific Railroad line spans I-80 at Exit 168. I-80/U.S. 189 turn southward toward Coalville and Silver Creek Junction on the 40 miles to Salt Lake City. I-84 meanders northwest five miles to Henefer and 39 miles to combine with I-15 north in Ogden. 07/16/17

The first confirming marker for Interstate 84 west stands just north of I-80 in Henefer Valley. I-84 parallels the Weber River, a Union Pacific Railroad line and Echo Road (old U.S. 30S) to the town of Henefer. 07/05/16

West End – Portland, Oregon

Most of I-84 along the Banfield Expressway runs along side the TRAX light rail system. The final reassurance shield assembly for westbound precedes Exit 1 to Lloyd Boulevard at NE 13th Avenue. 06/24/15

I-84/U.S. 30 pass between the Kerns and Sullivan’s Gulch communities one mile ahead of Interstate 5. 06/24/15

The Portland skyline comes into view as the Banfield Expressway turns southwesterly and lowers toward the Willamette River. Flyovers to I-5 follow for Beaverton and Salem to the south and Downtown Portland (via I-405 south) and Seattle, Washington to the north. 06/24/15

Oregon Route 99E (Grand Avenue) north spans the Banfield Expressway as Interstate 84 westbound ends. U.S. 30 joins I-5 north to the Fremont Bridge (I-405), where it continues west toward Astoria. 06/24/15

Ramps for Interstate 5 north and south include local connections. 06/24/15

An off-ramp for the Rose Quarter, Steel Bridge and Oregon Convention Center lowers from the northbound I-5 flyover. 06/24/15

The southbound flyover ties into a distributor roadway (Exit 300B) for the Morrison Bridge west to Downtown and Belmont Street to Central Eastside Industrial District. 06/24/15

I-5/U.S. 30 curve southeast from the split with Interstate 405 to meet I-84 east at Exit 301, just south of the Rose Quarter. 08/27/06

The entrance ramp from Ramsay Way adds a third southbound lane to the directional T interchange (Exit 301) with Interstate 84 east. U.S. 30 shifts from I-5 south onto I-84 (Banfield Expressway) to the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River and The Dalles. 08/27/06

Interstate 5 straddles the eastern banks of the Willamette River from I-84 southward to the Marquam Bridge. I-84 comprises a busy commuter route east to Gresham, Fairview and Troutdale. Photo by Chris Elbert (04/24/05).

A high flyover (Exit 301) links I-5/U.S. 30 south with the Banfield Expressway. I-84/U.S. 30 weave east between the Sullivan’s Gulch, Kerns, Laurelhurst and Rose City Park neighborhoods through east Portland. 08/27/06

Interstate 5 travels high above the Willamette River across the 1966-built Marquam Bridge north from I-405. Forthcoming Exit 300 for the eastbound beginning of Interstate 84 departs well ahead of the directional T interchange between the two freeways. 08/27/06

Exit 300 branches away from the I-5 mainline as a lengthly distributor roadway serving not only I-84/U.S. 30 east, but also the Central Eastside Industrial District. 08/27/06

Exit 300 partitions into ramps for Yamhill Street east and I-84/U.S. 30 (Banfield Expressway) east. I-84/U.S. 30 overlap throughout most of Oregon including 83 miles between Portland and The Dalles. 08/27/06

The eastbound beginning of I-84 from Interstate 5 north runs along side I-5 north for three quarters. The first confirming marker for I-84 east appears at the Burnside Bridge. U.S. 30 joins I-84 east from I-5 south. 08/27/06

West End Throwback

21st Avenue spans Interstate 5 north from the Kerns neighborhood to Sullivan’s Gulch, one mile from Interstate 5. 09/02/06

I-84/U.S. 30 west parallel Lloyd Boulevard south of the Lloyd District to the exchange with Interstate 5. 09/02/06

Traffic partitioned for Interstate 5 below the one way couplet of OR 99E along Grand Avenue and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard by the Oregon Convention Center. 09/02/06

U.S. 30 continues west onto I-5 north beyond the exit for 1st Avenue to the Rose Quarter. U.S. 30 extends through the Northwest Industrial area of Portland to St. Helens and west to U.S. 101 at Astoria. 09/02/06

• “Interstate 80 will keep being Interstate 80.” Eugene Register-Guard, May 18, 1977.
• “Interstate 80 to become 84.” The Deseret News, August 13, 1977.
• “Road numbers to change.” The Spokesman-Review, November 3, 1977.
• Interstate 50th Anniversary: The Story of Oregon’s Interstates
• “Caldwell’s ‘claim to fame’ light is gone.” The Deseret News, August 21, 1983.
• “Officials dedicate the final stretch of I-84.” The Deseret News, September 26, 1986.

Page updated October 5, 2023.

The Lower West Branch Road I-80 bridge is closed until 2026 as interstate expands to six lanes

Construction projects on I-80 will continue to affect travel in 2024, with a pair of overnight closures slowing traffic next week. Portions of I-80 will be detoured near 1st Avenue in Coralville and near Lower West Branch Road as crews conduct bridge work.

More: HISTORY ON THE MOVE: West Liberty's historic Stagecoach Inn makes slow move to Heritage Park

Lower West Branch Road

An Interstate 80 widening project will close a segment of Lower West Branch Road until 2026. The portion of road that crosses over I-80 closed Wednesday, Feb. 28 as crew begin preparations to demolish the bridge.

The new construction is a part of the widening I-80 project that started in 2022, expanding I-80 to six lanes in both the eastbound and westbound directions. The project is anticipated to take another three years to complete.

The DOT said drivers should expect delays between Iowa City and West Branch.

The Lower West Branch Road bridge demolition will begin next week, with portions of the interstate closed overnight Monday, March 4 and Tuesday, March 5.

The eastbound lane of I-80 from exit 249 (the Herbert Hoover Highway exit) to the West Branch exit (exit 254) will be closed starting at 11 p.m. Monday, March 4 to 5 a.m. Tuesday, March 5. The DOT will establish a detour at exit 249 directing drivers along F-44 to exit 254.

The westbound lane of I-80 will close at 11 p.m. Tuesday, March 5 from exit 254 to exit 249. Drivers will also be directed to take County Road F-44 at exit 254 to connect with exit 249. The interstate will open again at 5 a.m. Wednesday, March 6.

Construction crews will start building the new bridge after demolishing the old one. The total cost of the six-year I-80 widening project is $100 million.

More: Iowa City Community school board considers closing Hills Elementary to save more than $1 million

1st Avenue "diverging diamond" construction

Construction along I-80 at the 1st Avenue Coralville exit is also ongoing, with a pair of scheduled overnight closures planned for late next week.

Crews have been working on a $42 million Iowa Department of Transportation "diverging diamond" project that will use an interchange design model that the department says improves safety and reduces traffic delays  by eliminating turns across oncoming traffic for cars entering and leaving the highway .

Work on the interchange began in March of 2023, which closed the two northbound lanes of 1st Avenue near I-80.

The westbound lane of I-80 at exit 242 will be closed from 11 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, until 5 a.m. Thursday, March 7 as crews place beams over I-80 for the 1st Avenue bridge. The eastbound lane of I-80 at exit 242 will be closed from 11 p.m. Thursday, March 7, until 5 a.m. Friday, March 8, weather permitting.

Drivers will be directed to follow a marked detour using the 1st Avenue interchange (exit 242) ramps.

Bridge construction is expected to be complete by the fall; however, beautification will continue after the bridge is completed.

The Iowa DOT encourages drivers to proceed with caution during the closures, obey the posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. Updated travel information is available at 511ia.org .

More: The $389.5 million I-80/I-380 interchange project opens two months ahead of schedule

I-80/I-380 Interchange is open

Construction on the Interstate 380/I-80 interchange was completed in August , two months ahead of schedule. The $389.5 million dollar project began in 2018 and was scheduled to wrap up sometime next year, though crews have completed nearly all of the structural alterations,

The I-80/I-380 systems interchange project removed four of the original loops and replaced them with directional ramps. U.S. 218, I-80 and I-380 have all been widened to six lanes near the interchange, and I-80 was also widened to eight lanes between I-380 and Coral Ridge Avenue as part of the project

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_

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The Coolest Attractions and Stops Along I-80

Drive I-80 from CA, through Omaha, Iowa, and Ohio to the Atlantic!

• Featured Trip Guides

Created by pineappleprincess - June 24th 2017

Because Interstate 80 connects two major US cities (San Francisco and Teaneck, NJ, right outside New York City), it's a popular and well-traveled route. But, even though its endpoints are two of the country's coolest destinations doesn't mean that everything in the middle isn't worth checking out! Along the way, you'll pass through Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Omaha, Des Moines, and more, and travel across states like Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, which are all loaded with offbeat and interesting attractions. Here are some of the coolest things to see and do along I-80!

San Francisco, California, United States

The interstate starts in San Francisco. The City by the Bay is one of the country's quirkiest destinations, so spend a day exploring before you hop in the car for the cross-country journey on I-80. Whether you're most excited to explore hippie capital Haigh-Ashbury, or you want to experience the city's legendary Chinatown, or you just want to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, there are some pretty amazing things to see and do here.

Sacramento, California, United States

Not too far away from San Francisco, you'll reach California's capital city, Sacramento. As the capital, it's got loads of cultural attractions (the Crocker Art Museum, the California Automobile Museum, the Sacramento Zoo, and more) and tons of history (Old Sacramento, Sutter's Fort and the Capitol Building) to explore.

10791 E Empire St, Grass Valley, CA, US

Empire Mine State Historic Park

Once you leave Sacramento, you'll drive on I-80 towards the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Here, you'll find the Empire Mine State Historic Park, one of the "oldest, deepest, longest, largest and richest" mines in California. Over 300 miles of passageway produced 5.8 million ounces of gold over the course of 100+ years. In the park there are tours of historic buildings, hiking trails, and the chance to go down into the shaft of the mine, but the coolest feature here is the Secret Room. Few knew about this room's existence while the mine was operational, but it was kept hidden because it contained a scale model of the whole mine's underground system... and today, you can go check it out! It's the best way to really understand just how huge this mine is.

Virginia St, Reno, NV, US

The Reno Arch

You'll pass near Reno on I-80, so pull off and at least take a picture at the iconic Reno Arch, bearing the city's iconic slogan: "The Biggest Little City In The World." If you want to stay longer, there are plenty of attractions (the National Automobile Museum, the Fleischmann Planetarium and Science Center, and Wingfield Park) to keep you busy... if you don't spend all of your time trying to strike it rich in the casinos!

The Whitney Peak Hotel, and the Peppermill Resort Spa and Casino are two stellar options for hotels in Reno, although there are some really nice casino/resorts all throughout the city!

800 Highway Dr, Imlay, NV, US

Thunder Mountain Monument

On a shoulder of I-80, you'll pass by Thunder Mountain Monument, a very special outsider art installation. Built by a WWII veteran and self-identified Creek Indian, the monument is a series of buildings and sculptures meant to provide shelter for people during the "imminent apocalypse" and serve as a spiritual haven for the hippies of the era. Only three of the seven buildings remain (one was a three-story hostel where many hitchhikers slept), and there are also thousands of sculptures depicting the struggles of the Native Americans, which are made of concrete and found objects. The buildings were subject to a lot of vandalism before they were declared a state historic site, and they're now open for self-guided tours.

501 Railroad St, Elko, NV, US

Western Folklife Center

For more interesting history along the highway, stop at the Western Folklife Center. It contains a gallery, museum, and gift shop but it's so much more than just that. They offer concerts, classes, lessons, and tons more, and work to preserve the aspects that make the American West so unique. And, if you're lucky, you'll be passing by here during the annual National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

1045 Wendover Boulevard, West Wendover, NV, US

Rainbow Hotel Casino

Click to discover a great deal!

Since you're in Nevada, indulge yourself a little at the Rainbow Hotel Casino, just off I-80. Luxe rooms, free wifi, several onsite restaurants, two pools, a spa, and, of course, the casino, make this a nice place to take a break from driving and relax.

Salt Lake City, Utah, United States

The next city you'll reach if you stay on the interstate is Salt Lake City, Utah. The mountains, forests and (of course) the lake make for a beautiful natural setting for this city, with its many unique attractions. Science-lovers will appreciate the Clark Planetarium and The Leonardo, a museum that explores the intersection of art, technology, creativity, and science. Or, if you're a culture nerd, check out the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art and the Utah Museum of Natural History. Plus, as the home base for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka the Mormon Church) you can learn about this unique religion at the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, Temple Square, and the Museum of Church History and Art.

If you're looking for a quaint hotel in Salt Lake City, you're in luck, because there are more than a few options here. The Peery Hotel and the Ellerbeck Mansion are two excellent choices!

601 Bear River Dr., Evanston, WY, US

Bear River State Park

Then the route takes you into Wyoming. Just because the state is known for its wide open spaces doesn't mean there aren't plenty of things to see in Wyoming! Get a deep appreciation for the state's landscape at Bear River State Park. With views of the surroundings, a few miles of trails, and a chance to see some of that famed Wyoming wildlife (the park is home to herds of elk and bison), it's a great place to experience the Wild West.

Po Box 112 37000 Business Loop I 80, Fort Bridger, WY, US

Fort Bridger Historical Association

One cool attraction in Wyoming is Fort Bridger. Established in 1843 as a supply stop on the Oregon Trail, Fort Bridger saw many, many old-timey road-trippers passing through its gates. Today the Fort Bridger Historical Association has recreations of the trading post and fort buildings, an archaeological site preserving the remains of the original structures, and a museum housing artifacts from the Fort here.

3 N Main St,, Superior, WY, US

Natural Corrals Archeological Site (Ice Caves)

There's also Natural Corrals Archaeological Site, which is a really special place for a few reasons. It's a geologically important site, because ancient lava flows formed a rugged landscape dotted with caves, some of which have ice all year round. It's also historically important; there's evidence that Native Americans used this place for buffalo kills. Spend some time taking in the unique views here!

I-80, Exit 228, Rawlins, WY, US

Fort Fred Steele Historic Site

Stop by Fort Fred Steele to stretch your legs by walking among the remains of an old army post, built to protect the railroad. Several buildings and loads of interpretive signs and exhibits, not to mention a beautiful setting in the Wyoming landscape, make this a quick educational stop.

975 Snowy Range Rd, Laramie, WY, US

Wyoming Territorial Prison Museum

Another interesting historic stop along I-80 is the Wyoming Territorial Prison Museum. Built in 1872, it saw many famous outlaws (including Butch Cassidy!) pass through its doors. Walk into the cells, see pictures of old convicts, and learn what life was like for outlaws who weren't able to escape arrest!

Champagne Dr, Warren AFB, WY, US

Icbm Missile Museum

Located on Wyoming's F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile and Heritage Museum is a fascinating look into the science and history of ICBMs and the 90th Missile Wing, which operates Minuteman-III missiles across the west. It's all housed in a turn-of-the-century building at the oldest continuously active military installation within the Air Force!

U.S. 26, Lewellen, NE, US

Ash Hollow State Historical Site

I-80 makes its way into Nebraska next, where you'll find even more natural beauty and interesting history. From Apache Indians to the Oregon Trail, Ash Hollow State Historical site is loaded with fascinating stories from the past. It's not hard to see why Native Americans chose to settle here, as it has caves for shelter and tons of wildlife. The park's Windlass Hill is notable as it was a challenge for emigrants on the Oregon/California Trail.

1249 North Homestead Rd, NE, North Platte, NE, US

Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard

Named for Union Pacific president Edd H. Bailey, Union Pacific Railroad's Bailey Yard manages 10,000 rail road cars every single day on its 2,850 acre spread. It's the world's largest train yard, and it's kind of hard to fully appreciate it unless you go to the top of the Golden Spike Tower and view it all from the observation deck. It's one of the best places to learn about the crucial role railroads played in American history!

606 Heartland Rd, Lexington, NE, US

Heartland Military Museum

Another great attraction is The Heartland Military Museum, which has a huge collection of military vehicles that is incredibly impressive, with helicopters, jeeps, tanks, and tons more. You'll also find displays of weapons, uniforms, and equipment among other things. The chance to sit in some of the restored vehicles is definitely an opportunity you won't want to miss out on!

3600 E Hwy 30, Kearney, NE, US

Classic Car Collection

Kearney, NE's Classic Car Collection is an ever-growing display of well-maintained and super cool vintage cars from across history. Even if you don't know a ton about cars, you'll love poring over the details and aesthetic of these retro beauties!

358 Bluff Rd, Seward, NE, US

World's Largest Time Capsule

Keep going on I-80 and you'll hit Seward, NE, which is home to the World's Largest Time Capsule. It's a 20-foot by 8-foot by 6-foot concrete vault filled with 5,000 objects from the town's history, donated by its citizens; there's even supposed to be a car inside! It was dedicated in 1975 and is set to be open in 2025, but in the meantime, you can check out the memorial and ponder what might be within.

Omaha, Nebraska, United States

Omaha is the next big city you'll pass through while on I-80. Explore the Heartland Park of America or the Lewis and Clark Landing, check out the Durham Museum, housed in a 1931 train station, or visit the awesome Henry Doorly Zoo! And, while you're in cattle country, get a steak at Drover... it'll change your life.

And there are plenty of great hotels in Omaha as well. The Magnolia and Hotel Deco XV are super swanky and will have you feeling like royalty!

There's no bad time of year to road trip along I-80. Snow might make traveling a little tougher in the winter, closing some attractions and slowing down your drive, and Iowa can get some bad storms and tornados in the spring, but there are enough big cities along the way and people driving the highway that something will always be open!

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