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California/Scenic roads in winter

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Expert: Jason Curodeau - 10/29/2009


Question
Hi Jason,

I am going to travel to California with my family for Christmas vacation. As we don't know the road conditions in winter, I was wondering what would be the best way to go from Death Valley to San Francisco. We would prefer a scenic road. We thought about the road 395 to reach south lake tahoe, and then to cross the Eldorado National Forest to reach San Francisco via Sacramento. What do you think about this option ? Is it a nice road, is it easily drivable and safe at the end of December and how long does it take to drive from the exit of Death Valley to South Lake Tahoe ? How is the weather at this time of the year ? Is it possible to cross the Eldorado National Forest (we would have preferred to cross the Yosemite national park, but I suppose it is not possible).

Another option is to go by the Highway 5, but it is certainly less scenic. What do you think about these different options ? Or may be you have other tips.

After that, we plan to go from San Francisco to Los Angeles through the coast road, and then reach Las Vegas through interstate 15. No problems with these roads in late December ?

Thanks in advance,

Valerie


Answer
Valerie,
It sounds like you have discovered a great way to go. The drive up 395 north of Death Valley is a great trip and going through south Lake Tahoe across Hwy 50 is also a nice drive. The roads are generally nice but in considering time and conditions, this will be totally dependent upon the weather. It is not easy to predict weather in the sierra's. I have lived in both North and South Lake Tahoe for about 2 years, in that time I have seen many variations in the weather. I vacationed in South Lake Tahoe in July of 92 and it was a sunny beautiful day around 70 degrees, the next morning we awoke to a foot of snow. Very unpredictable weather! I would suggest getting snow chains and practicing how to put them on and take them off. Many of the Highways wont allow vehicles without chains, some of them usually have people lined up to put chains on for people but since you are knowingly going into areas with probable snow I think you'd be more comfortable driving if you already know how to put them on yourself.
I hope this has helped and if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to ask.
Jason

California

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Jason Curodeau

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding best routes of travel. Although I cannot predict traffic conditions, I can provide the most scenic and dynamic route for the traveller on a budget and or schedule. I also know the most direct and yet scenic routes.

Experience

I have had the opportunity to travel quite extensively throughout the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, both as a resident and traveler. My search for adventure and new experiences has given me the thirst for the "road less travelled". Because I am not independently wealthy, the road I travel is as an admirer of the journey. As long as I can find a place to sleep for next to nothing, pack some food, and afford the gas I am down the road. If given a description of the prospective travelers needs I can easily provide them with detailed route options independent of their finances and suited to their needs. Most of my travels have been by automobile. I recently purchased a motorcycle and I am taking ten day trip from Joshua Tree to Auburn California and I am taking back roads and state highways the entire way. I will take a day trip around Lake Tahoe, where I lived for two years, and cruise the old highways of the Gold Mining era. I will cut across towards the Pacific and slowly wind my way down the coast taking in every minute smell and experience temperature changes subtly created by the shadow of leaves

Organizations
Some friends and I from the area have started a local music and art "zine" and have experienced some very positive community feedback.

Education/Credentials
I am currently a full-time, thirty-seven year old student and I am preparing to begin a career in primary education. I have chosen this field not only because I feel it will be rewarding but also for the travel time it will allow me. I anticipate frequent world travel in my near future.

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