I'm going to attempt to get there for the Aug 9-10 learning experience. Looking at MapQuest I have 2 choices for driving routes. Straight across on Interstate 80 (which I have done many times), or drive up through Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Waterloo to get on Rt 20 which goes all the way across Nebraska. Driving times are listed to be within 10 minutes of each other.
Question is, what condition is Rt 20 in? I assume its a 2 lane state highway with not much between towns. That would be my choice if the road is good. Anyone familiar with that route? Thanks.

don't believe everything gps tells you. if your already on 80 you will save at least 2 hours by going to Ogallala NE and taking 26 west to 85 north. If you stop in Chadron to see the fur trade museum it will take much longer than that. So either going to or coming from you really ought to take 20.

Highway 20 is 2 lane all the way across Nebr. Speed limit is 65mph, good road conditions.

Like has been said already, Hwy 20 is fast and goes through some great towns. I've gone about every way possible. And, with the bike traffic at the tail end of Sturgis, Nebraska is a good route because Nebraska requires helmets and only a small fraction of the bikers travel across it. i-80 and I-25 are to be avoided, at least in my opinion. I'm glad to hear you are making the trip!

Thanks for the responses. I prefer secondary travel vs the interstate if possible. I have always wanted to travel through the center and northern part of Nebraska.

West of O'Neill is some beautiful country. Cows outnumber people. I'll be coming that way also. I'm going to try and stop and see the Furtraders museum .