Our plane (Cherokee 235 -- normally aspirated 6-cylinder O-540) runs best
(highest speed, lowest, most even EGTs and CHTs, with lowest fuel burn)
between 4500 and 6500 feet.

These altitudes work fine here in the Midwest.

We also like it there because it's usually smoother, and there is far less
traffic. We're well above the guys working the pattern, and well below the
"big boys" in the airliners.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"
"John Harlow" wrote in message
...
I'd like to get input on opinions on the "best" VFR altitude for a route.

It seems to me it's largely based on distance, winds aloft and comfort
level. Do you have a "rule of thumb" trading off altitude (and therefore
safety margin) to avoid headwinds? Or, if winds aloft are to your
advantage, how high would someone go in a 172 class aircraft before
returns
diminish?