Missourian, thinking about going to Mohawk Valley. Give me your travel tips and opinions.

Specifically, it would be a 15-16 hour drive, so I'm looking to avoid that if possible. What is the best airport and how far away from the mine are they?

In addition, I'm thinking about going the last week of March since my rockhounding daughter will be on spring break. Would the weather be miserable at that time? I've read it's hard work already and the cold could make it worse.

Any other tips, hacks, tricks, advice is welcomed, lay it on me!