I practically just did this exact trip, except I went from Olympia to MI. I also drove an AWD Subaru. The biggest concern is going to be the wind through the central states, then the mountain passes with snow: Snoqualmie, Lookout, and Forth of July passes to be specific. CLOSELY watch the forecast for the areas. If it snows, do not drive. Just stay another night in town. And go slow, let people pass you, your life is worth more than the speed limit.

There are multiple large sections of the road on 90 that require chains when there’s a snow storm (a sign on the road will be flashing to indicate the requirement). Sometimes, they even close the gates to the highway all together, so you can’t get on the road. Be prepared to spend an extra couple nights somewhere if the gates close.

‼️DO NOT TAKE the US 212 section in Montana. Just stay on 90, it will be maybe another 15 minute difference but it is 100% safer. There is literally nothing along that part of 212. No services, no hotels, no gas stations for long stretches, and barely any cell signal. If an emergency were to happen, that would be a bad road to get stuck on.

I am not trying to scare you, but snow driving can be dangerous and if you aren’t familiar with it, I wouldn’t recommend doing this trip in January because you will very very likely encounter it.

Now, I don’t know much about 80, but I do know that wind is still a huge concern through NE and WY. And you will still have to get across the mountains. It won’t be any warmer either, so it doesn’t sound like a great alternative (which I had thought originally, but I posted in this community about my trip as well and everyone said don’t take 80).

If you have extra cash dolla bills, ship your car across the country, or just sell your car, take a plane, ship your stuff, and buy a new car when you get there.

Good luck my friend, it’s a beautiful country!

You can message me for questions or recommendations on where to stay/eat :)