I want to try my first tour next summer, and I'm not sure of what route to take, part of me says go up the west coast and into canada, the other says just tour the state of texas and maybe up to okalhoma..
Elvish

West Coast. But ride from North to South... less windy. There are great books on the route plus maps by Adventure Cycling. Lots of cyclists do this one so there are usually a few other bikers at the campsites. Most camping areas have hikker/bikker sites so you don't camp next to a RN and they're usually $5-15 a night. Many of the campsites have laundry on site too.
The route is pretty good for beginners. There are some narrower sections of road but usually not to narrow, and the speed limit is slower for most of the route. The weather is predictable and pleasant, the topography is mostly flat with little rolling hills.
Vancouver to San Fransisco is a good starter. Give it 2-3 weeks.

You don't necessarily have to go on a huge distance tour as your first one. You could instead go on a short two or three day intro tour to a nearby town, park etc and just get a feel for how well you and the bike work together to have a fun time.

There are a number of First Time touring stories in the What's Touring and Getting Started sections of the Bicycle Touring 101 web site. You might find them of interest as you prepare for your first tour.

Good luck and don't forget to make having fun a priority when you do get out there!

~Jamie N
www.bicycletouring101.com

West Coast