by Jack Epner

Created on: October 24, 2009

Hitchhiking from Phoenix to Denver was one of the best experiences of my life. While hitchhiking is considered somewhat taboo, I would highly recommend it to anyone. The unpredictability of it all is part of what makes it such a great experience. You could get a ride from anyone at any time. It teaches you patience, but also how to go with the flow. And you can meet some really cool people and learn and see more of your surroundings along the way than you ever would otherwise. I don't want to spoil the fun for anyone, but here are a few tips to make for fewer headaches.

1) Make a sign. The thumb routine works, but it is more difficult. Making a large sign visible from a distance gives a driver a second to recognize you, think about it, and pull over before passing by. Adding a little personality to the sign doesn't hurt either. Mine had "Denver" printed very large, and below that in large lettering, "I'm good company." Two people told me they stopped because the sign said I was good company.

2) Know where to get a ride. And the law on the matter. Using on ramps to major expressways is the way to go. If you are try to hitch from a local road, the local police may have something to say about it. And if you are walking or standing along the actual interstate, you may be breaking the law in many places and highway patrol or a state trooper may pick you up. The on ramp is the no-man's land of this scheme. I actually had cops honk as they drove by. Nobody gave me any trouble the entire trip. It's also the best place to find a relevant and willing driver. You know they are going your way, and it's the easiest place for them to pull over. There is also usually ample room for you to post yourself, although being smart about where to stand helps. Don't be too close to the entrance to the on ramp, but don't be too close to the interstate either. They need room to stop and you need time to alert them. Be somewhere there is enough shoulder for them to pull over, too.

3) Know your route. At least having a basic idea is important. Having a pocket map of the U.S. is great. One of the ladies that gave me a ride handed me one to keep. It had each state on each page. It didn't have much detail, but all you really need are major interstates. Know where your transfer points are, too. For example, I took 40 (I think) east for quite some ways. But I knew that when I got to Albuquerque, I needed to switch onto the 25 and head north. So I found a point near the intersection of the two

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