Avoiding San Francisco

Highway 20 near Williams, (North of Sacramento on the 5). West to the 101 and go from there. It's a beautiful drive!

I'll second the I80 to Vallejo suggestion. Exit in Vallejo and take 37 across the bay to the 101. You will pretty much avoid the entire greater Bay Area.

You could take I5 to 20 (city of Williams) or from I5 take 80 west to Vallejo, take 37 to Lakeville drive, turn right, and this will take you into Petaluma and 101. I have traveled that road a lot. It is a good road with no problems in a 35'A pulling a toad. I think the best answer to your question though is the time of day you will be traveling in the area.

If I was coming up I-5, wanted to avoid the Bay Area but get over to 101 to continue up north, I would cut over from I-5 through Clear Lake on Hwy 20. A bit north of the Sacramento area.

. double post

We took the 580 up through Oakland and across the Richmond-San Rafael bridge ($20) and joined 101 at San Rafael. We made a left at Petaluma and spent a few nights at Bodego Bay after that.

klutchdust wrote:
yes it does, coming off the 5 would it be best to use 101 to get north of the city?

can't really comment as I've never done that route. Looks difficult no matter how you go.. check the traffic maps!

2oldman wrote:
Graton Resort and Casino looks good, just north of SF.

yes it does, coming off the 5 would it be best to use 101 to get north of the city?

Graton Resort and Casino looks good, just north of SF.