Originally Posted by zweitesmal2

I've not done precisely that route but have gone northbound and southbound quite often to and from San Antonio TX, where all my tours begin and end. Do you mean 281 out of south Texas? Or 181? I see 81 in Newton but couldn't follow it all the way down with a quick look just now. Hwy 281 goes all the way up to Canada, as does 83 (farther west). I've hammered northbound all the way up to Canada a few times and it was always fun, with a practically guaranteed tailwind the whole way. Southbound is a different story and can be difficult with most days being headwind days. My tours are summertime ending in fall. As far as accommodation there are small inexpensive independent motels everywhere, in most every town. Reservations not necessary (or even possible at times). I've zigzagged on all those rural state roads through that region and it was really cool, leaving you with a real sense of rural America, its towns, businesses and people. I prefer not to use any national chain stores or motels and have found plenty of diners and small supermarkets along the way. Taking a quick loop through each little town as you pedal by will really add to your trip. I hope you have a great tour.