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Climate Across the Route

Route 66 crosses multiple climate zones, and weather changes dramatically as you travel west. Planning for temperature shifts is essential for comfort and safety. 

City 

Avg High (°F) 

Avg Low (°F) 

Rainfall (in) 

What to Expect 

Chicago, IL 

75–85 

55–65 

3–4 

Humid summers, afternoon thunderstorms 

St. Louis, MO 

80–90 

60–70 

3–4 

Hot and sticky, brief evening storms 

Tulsa, OK 

85–95 

65–75 

3–5 

Hot plains, occasional severe weather 

Amarillo, TX 

85–95 

60–70 

2–3 

Dry heat, strong winds, endless sky 

Albuquerque, NM 

85–95 

55–65 

1–2 

Desert climate, cool mountain nights 

Flagstaff, AZ 

75–85 

45–55 

1–2 

Pine forests, elevation cools things down 

Santa Monica, CA 

70–80 

60–70 

0–1 

Perfect coastal Mediterranean weather 





Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer brings scorching desert heat exceeding 100°F, while winter can bring snow to higher elevations like Flagstaff. 

Best Time to Travel Route 66

Spring (April to May): Ideal temperatures across most of the route, wildflowers in the desert, and manageable crowds. Rain is possible in the Midwest, but it will generally be mild. 

Summer (June to August): Peak season with all attractions open and long daylight hours, but expect extreme heat in the desert (100°F+) and crowded campgrounds. Book accommodations well in advance. 

Fall (September to October): The sweet spot. Comfortable desert temperatures, beautiful light for photography, fall colors in the Midwest, and fewer crowds than in summer. 

Winter (November to March): Lowest rates and minimal crowds, but snow and ice are possible in Flagstaff and other higher elevations. Some attractions may have reduced hours. 

RV Rental Recommendations

Class C Motorhomes offer the best balance for Route 66: comfortable enough for a week-long journey, maneuverable enough for small-town streets and vintage motel parking lots. Full kitchen and bathroom facilities mean you're self-sufficient even in remote stretches. 

Class A Motorhomes provide maximum comfort and space, ideal for families or those who want resort-style amenities on wheels. However, tight turns in towns like Oatman and Williams can be challenging. 

Class B Campervans work well for couples prioritizing fuel economy and easy parking. They're perfect for quick overnight stays and navigating urban areas. 

Essential features for Route 66 include air conditioning (critical in the desert), unlimited generator use (included with El Monte RV), a backup camera for tight spots, and an awning for shade during daytime stops. 

Budget approximately $800 to $1,200 for fuel based on current gas prices and RV class. Weekly rentals include a mileage allowance with additional miles available through Travel Extras

Practical Tips for the Journey

Start driving early each day to beat the heat and secure campsites by afternoon. The desert gets scorching after midday, and RV campgrounds operate on a first-come or reservation basis. 

Stock up on groceries and supplies in major cities: Chicago, St. Louis, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff. Rural stretches can have limited services. 

Navigation apps help, but brown Route 66 signs mark historic sections worth following. Some vintage alignments are narrow or rough, so use judgment based on RV size and comfort level. 

Roadside assistance is included with El Monte RV rentals, providing peace of mind across remote desert sections. 

Route 66 FAQs

One week is sufficient for an express itinerary that covers major highlights. Expect 250 to 350 miles per day with limited time for extensive exploration. For a more relaxed pace with detours, allow 10 to 14 days. 

Reserve KOA campgrounds 2 to 3 months ahead during summer, especially near Flagstaff, Albuquerque, and major cities. Spring and fall offer more flexibility with last-minute bookings. 

Yes, though some historic sections have tight turns. The drive to Oatman features steep, winding roads that challenge large Class A motorhomes. Class C RVs navigate all sections comfortably. 

New Mexico and Arizona deliver the most dramatic landscapes: painted deserts, petrified forests, mountain passes, and vast open spaces. However, every state offers a unique appeal. 

The EZ66 Guidebook provides turn-by-turn navigation following historic alignments. Physical Route 66 maps are available at visitor centers and make excellent souvenirs.

Conclusion

Route 66 represents more than a highway: it's an American pilgrimage. This seven-day express adventure proves that even travelers with limited time can experience the Mother Road's magic. From Chicago's urban energy through the heartland, across deserts and mountains, to the Pacific Ocean, Route 66 delivers everything a great American road trip should be. 

Traveling in an RV from El Monte RV means carrying your hotel with you, stopping wherever inspiration strikes, and experiencing Route 66 with the same freedom that made this highway legendary. The open road awaits. 

Ready to start planning? Explore RV options and available rental deals at El Monte RV and check current promotions at Rental Deals