[sourdough]

I've made both routes many, many times. Had a vacation home in Cloudcroft NM (hwy 82) for 25 years. I've traveled both and always used 82 to get where you want to go (travel to Abilene all the time as well). The tunnel is no issue with your trailer, I've passed through it multiple times and semis/log trucks go through it every day.

Hwy 82 is more steep than taking 70 but if you're headed to Abilene it is a more direct route. It is a 6% grade (some of it) from Alamogordo to Cloudcroft (19 miles - the highest point) then you begin the descent toward Artesia. It is not a problem at all for your Duramax and the curves are fine. You don't want to be driving 70mph in them and the terrain prohibits it but it is, to me, by far the prettier, better route. It is 2 lane, 70 is 4 lane until you leave Ruidoso. 82 is scenic, 70 isn't so much. When you leave Ruidoso toward Roswell there's nothing for 70 miles. When you leave Roswell for Tatum ditto. On 82 from Cloudcroft to Artesia it's a fast 2 lane and pretty other than the 20 miles to Mayhill which is still 55mph and pretty. At Artesia the stretch to Hobbs is much like the stretch from Roswell to Tatum on 70. In summation, IMO, 82 is the way to go.

If you are in Alamogordo might look into Boot Hill RV Resort. Stayed there a few times and it's OK. You're in the desert so keep that in mind. While there visit Pistachio Land and get some pistachios (right up the highway). Be careful, the green chili pistachios, which I love, will light you up! They also make some good pistachio brittle. If in Alamo for a couple of days or so run up the hill to Cloudcroft and get some Mad Jack's brisket - from TX and outstanding.

If headed to Abilene we always stay at the Whistle Stop RV park. There are others there along the interstate but we've not been too impressed. Buck Creek RV Park is a little further down the interstate (2-3 miles) and it's OK too.

Don't know where in MS you came from or on what route but if taking I20 back through Shreveport LA/Monroe LA and on the Jackson MS...that is a very rough stretch. Shreveport is terrible and your stuff inside the trailer will probably move around a little...or a lot.

Sorry for the long post but I have made that route a lot for decades and just got back from the I20 trek through the locations mentioned (and on to FL). If you have any questions I might be able to help with you can PM me.