Is it safe to drive from San Francisco to Raleigh via Denver?

Sure? Why not this time of year?

Use Google Maps to plan your route.

What kind of budget do you have for motels and food? You can get coupon books at gas stations (free) that have hotel discounts. As long as you stay at reputable chains you should be fine.

Bear in mind that a straight road map doesn’t show ups and downs. You might want to check a topographical map or otherwise research the terrain while choosing your route. Crossing the Rocky Mountains isn’t a trivial bit of business. If you’re bothered by heights as I am, you might want to consider where and how you go across. Steep mountain passes will also affect your speed.

The best route from San Francisco would be I-80 which would take you north of Denver through southern Wyoming. It’s a beautiful drive. If you want to drive through Denver it would take you away from the most direct route to your destination. If you have the time that shouldn’t be a problem. You could also take I-40, but that’s nowhere near Colorado.

If you want to go to Denver you can take I-80 to Cheyenne, then take 25 south to Denver. From Denver you can take I-70 to Saint Louis, then I-64 to Raleigh. I drove from SF to Cheyenne on I-80 in two days time, but that was driving from dawn to dusk.

You shouldn’t have any problems. I agree with @Jeruba about the topographical map.

While in the south stay in hotels on the level of Courtyard or better. Avoid Hotel 6 and Days Inn, places like that, unless someone has assured you the area is safe. I tend to stick to that rule in general. I can’t speak specifically to the western states; I haven’t driven much through them, but in the south the poorer areas can be dangerous. I usually feel safe in the midwest in general. If you are going to stay near Memphis or Nashville on your way to NC, I can give you advice on those cities. But, I think it is more likely you will travel north of there.

If you don’t have a frequent stay card with a hotel group consider starting now. I get free stays with marriotts all the time. They have a special now, I assume you will be able to sign up for it, two stays get one stay free. So if you stay in a marriott affiliated hotel on two nights, you will already have a free night. Not that I am pushing for Marriott, all the big chains have these frequent stay programs, like a frequent flyer card with the airline. Hilton, Holiday Inn, etc.

You can take the entire trip without every stepping foot from your house by using Google Earth. It shows all the ups and downs and everything else you want to know. It’s just like you are actually driving down the roads.

My brother and his son recently took this journey, only from NC to San Jose with a stop in Denver. It took them four days to complete it. If you are planning to take the trip alone, it may take longer.

My recommendation would be to invest in a AAA membership, if you don’t already have one. It can provide you with guidance, maps, and car emergency support if needed. It also might be worth looking into renting a GPS. Not only can one guide you, but they have the ability to pull up hotels, restaurants and local attractions. Plus, it’s like having someone else in the vehicle with you. :)

As for safety, it is just a matter of logic, preparation for dealing with the worst, and instinct.

When it comes to where to stay and eat, I use Trip Advisor. It lists hotels, restaurants and attractions by price and reviewers’ ratings. Unless the trip is time-sensitive, it may not be important to book hotel reservations in advance. If you do, make sure to note the confirmation number and cancellation policy of the hotel. The locals often give the best recommendations on where to eat.

Good luck with your journey. Please keep us posted on this adventure!