"I choose to calculate from Seattle to Fall River, approx. 3,100 miles.
"

Well I'm about 10min.'s from Fall River, so you must have psychic powers.
 The van is near Anacortes, if I remember right, about 1 1/2 -2 hours No
of Seattle.

Regarding the reply from John - don't worry I figured that you were
talking about both ways when I calculated the fuel mileage and hours. I
figure $400 in gas, 55-60 hours of driving allowing for gas stops.
Mapquest lists 50 hours for the trip.

Thanks for all the replies - we are definitely leaning to driving - this
thought has me a little scared after reading all the tales of breaking
down.  I think getting a DVD player for the kids is a great idea  - and
lots of books. Also one was getting the kids involved with reading maps
and planning the day.  I only wish I could take 3 (or 4 ) weeks from work
to do the trip.

I have thought of driving from Anacortes to Cody WY (just East of
Yellowstone)  where we have friends, flying home and leaving my family to
explore Yellowstone, then returning a week later for the drive home -
taking a week to do such.  But it's another air fare and logisitics
problems.

We will be camping in the van, so our hotel costs will be minimal.  This
van does not have a stove, but we have a Coleman one to use.

Keep the comments coming - really appreciate it.

John