Here's a brief photolog my 4 day trip.
Day 1: LA-ABQ
I left Hollywood at 9:30am and picked up the 134/210 freeway to the 15. From there I picked up I-40 in Barstow and headed East through the Mojave desert. Average temperature was 102º for most of the afternoon. Yuck.
Essentials and a dog named Myra
This is what happens when you strike a vulture at 78mph.
Quick fix with superglue and e-tape. (also, lots of hope)
Welcome to AZ. I-40 Eastbound
A rather unenchanting sign
Day 2: ABQ-SPR
I continued along I-40 through NM, into Texas, and across OK to OKC.
From there, it was I-44/Oral Roberts Turnpike into MO. I took issue with having to pay a toll on a federal interstate highway, but the operator just chuckled and demanded $4.
This truck tried to pass the other one 4 times over the course of 20+ minutes. I wanted to give the driver the finger when he finally moved over, but instead I just waved.
It's all downhill from here!
Yeehaw!
North Texas...
Even Myra is excited!
Still in Texas...
Windfarms, put there to break up the boredom
This place is alright.
6 hours later, I was asleep in a motel on the outskirts of Springfield.
Day 3: SPR-CIN
Finally across the Mississippi! From St. Louis, I picked up I-70 through IL to Indianapolis where I took a detour down I-74 to Cincinnati to visit a cousin.
The Gateway Arch still captures my imagination when I see it.
My first time in Indy.
I was really excited for this sign, because I knew I would be out of the car soon
Day 4: CIN-BAL
Last day of driving! Got an early start out of Cincy and took I-71 towards Columbus where I picked I-70 for the remainder of the trip. This leg was by far the most scenic. It was also the most demanding on the car as it traverses the Appalachian Mountains.
Crossing the Ohio River
New Mexico's Dept. of Tourisim could learn a lot from this sign
Moments later I am in PA.
NO ONE told me there's a toll road all the way from California?!
Last state line this trip!
My view from the balcony for for the next 3.5 months
2734 total miles
I was pleased with the XC for the majority of the drive. Other than a trip from CA to TX, this is the longest I have ever been on the road with it and it was very comfortable and responsive.
My best economy was 27mpg when cruising at around 65mph. Trip average was 25.5
My superglued turn signal lens held the whole trip!
