California hwy 299

Blazing Zippers wrote:
Hey all, the California Hwy 299 that runs from Redding to the coast--is it O.K. for a 31 ft. fifth wheel and tow vehicle? We're looking at a way from I-5 to the coast, then work North toward Oregon.
Your thoughts, please.

299 is doable but is not my 1st choice, keep your speed down and be prepared to use that exhaust brake & gearing down. Depending on where you want to start on the Oregon coast, I use Hwy 42 or Hwy 138/38 every year.

No problem. The only issue is that there is some major reconstruction going on -- some delays -- check the CalTrans website just before you go.

highway 20 at williams is the easiest rte from I-5 to 101.

donkeydew wrote:
highway 20 at williams is the easiest rte from I-5 to 101.

X1, easy drive for RV's

Route to 101:

Take Highway 20 West out of Williams off I5 for 37.1 miles.

Watch for Highway 53 as you drop down a hill after a fairly long climb. Easy climb and multiple lanes.
Turn what would be South onto 53. You will go about 8 miles. Look for the sign to Highway 29 which leads to Kelseyville. This is a nice road and will become freeway in a few miles. Eventually you are back to two lane for a short distance and will come to a stop sign. You are back to Highway 20 again. This leg is about 30 miles. Turn left and enjoy the beautiful drive right to 101. This route will bypass the two lane twisting and winding on the North side of Clear lake. If you want a good view of the lake go ahead and stay on 20 all the way to 101.

Take the ramp towards Willits. Once in town stay in the left lane and be patient. Traffic can back up a bit. You will come to a large intersection that has a shopping center on the right and fuel stations on three corners.

299 is good, been across a few times. 40ft mh towing a crewcab pickup. I wouldnt hesitate no matter what i was in

I live just off of 299W, roadway should be good between Redding and the Coast. Just use your gears going up and down the grades and enjoy the river and mountain views. You can honk and wave as you go through Junction City, there are mostly friendly folks here. JH

Whenever Williams is mentioned, I gotta get a plug in for Granzella's. Really excellent deli sandwiches. They make a thing called a Muffletta -- it is a New Orleans style sandwich with a chopped olive spread. Very tasty.

But kind of messy to eat while driving. Don't ask me how I know this.

And I agree that 20 is an easier way to get from the 5 to the 101 than 299. But 299 is not too bad. Stay off 36!!