So I thought I had this all set in stone but when going over tomorrow's route tonight, I compared my phones route (using iPhone's Maps app) to Google Maps (which is what I used for prior planning). Here's a comparison of the two routes. Pro's and Con's or alternatives from those familiar with the roads are much appreciated.
My starting location: 2631 Enterprise, Goodland, KS 67735
Google Maps:
KS-27 S to US-40 W
US-287 S to CO-96 W
CO-71 S to CO-10 W
Then 160 W to Cortez
Apple Maps:
Basically I70 W to US-24 W to I-25 S to 160 W