Trip from IL to MD

[JFitzgerald]

I am heading to Maryland (Baltimore area) soon with the trailer to bring a car back. Looks like I-70 is the most direct route. Any advice on spots to avoid, spots not to avoid, construction, etc. ? Thanks.

 

[Larry Willard]

I avoid the PA. turnpke by taking I 79 south at Washington PA. to Morgantown then I 68 to 70 at Hancock again.

Larry

 

[JFitzgerald]

Thanks for that info Larry. I take it the PA turnpike is pretty busy? I'll avoid it. Anyone have anything else?

 

[Loren]

I agree about the Pensylvania Turnpike. I can't believe that they have the nerve to charge people to drive on that road.



You don't say what part of Illinois you will be leaving from, but if I-70 looks like the best route to you, I would recommend it for the first part of your route. You have two pretty good options in eastern Ohio/western Pensylvania:



1. You could cut south in eastern Ohio on I-77 and pick up US-50 at Parkersburg, WV, and go east on US-50. We drive this road with a trailer every year from Cincinnati to Washington. It's an excellent road and the scenery is nice. Then, near Clarksburg, WV, take I-79 north to meet I-68 near Morgantown.



2. Alternatively, you could continueon I-70 to I-79 in western Pensylvania and take it south to get onto I-68 at Morgantown, WV. This would probably be a bit shorter for you.



In either case, I recommend using I-68 across northern Maryland, rather than the Pensylvania Turnpike. This is basically the same recommendation as Larry's. I strongly second his opinion.



As an aside, Baltimore is not far from Sparks, MD, the home of Rickson Truck Accessories. They fixed me up with wheels the last time I was out there. Their service is great.



Happy motoring.



Loren

 

[JFitzgerald]

Thanks for the input guys. I just got back last night. Found out that the car was actually in College Park, MD - near DC. Took your recommendations and took I-70 to Washington, PA then I-79 to I-68 / 70 / 270 into College Park. It's a beautiful drive through the mountains. No construction delays to speak of. Just the usual holiday traffic and distracted idiot drivers.



The Cummins (and the rest of the truck) made it without a glitch. Love this truck more every time I use it.