Yosemite and Death Valley Routes

Question

1. Travelling from Reno, NV to Yosemite NP on the 17th of May with a 28 foot Class A pulling a 12 foot utility trailer. Relying on Mapquest or Garmin for a route, are there any conditions (Hazards, bad roads, snow closures, POIs, etc.) that I should be aware of when crossing the Sierras into Mariposa, CA?

2. Mapquest shows two routes from Yosemite to Death Valley. Going south along the eastern side of the Sierras is about 100 miles shorter than going south toward L.A. and then heading east. Any recommendations?

I've driven a Class C for 6 years going several times from PA to the Northwest (OR and WA) and to the Four Corners region. This, however, will be our first major trip in a new Class A. Any thoughts, suggestions, advice or recommendations will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

fresno_tundra_d · Answer

In May, Tioga Pass(Hwy 120) might not be open yet. It depends on the snow. If it isn't, you'll have a much longer trip down Hwy 99 or I5.

d_e_bishop · Answer

As the Tundra Driver said Tioga may be closed. It is not normally plowed until June but this year may be different. Lack of snow may open it in June.

The route over the Sierra and the over to DV is a fine route. Bicyclist and endurance runners take it from DV to Whitney Portal. I think it is south to 58 ar north to 50 over the Sierra.

rv2go · Answer

For the last 3 years, Tioga Pass opened May 7(2012) May, 11(2013), and last year(2014), May 2nd.
I would keep my plans flexible and keep an eye on the opening date for Tioga Pass. With the little snow pack the Sierra has received this year, It may be an early opening again.

time2roll · Answer

I would try to go around Death Valley unless you plan to stay and visit a few days... and it will be hot by May as in 100+ in the day.  Lots of long steep (7 to 9%) grades in/out some with slow curves.  But the roads are generally fine.

tracus · Answer

Thanks for the suggestions. I am keeping tabs on Tioga Pass by checking the NPS website for Yosemite. We do plan to spend a few days in Death Valley and heat isn't too big a problem. We spent a few weeks in Utah, New Mexico and Arizona during the summer so we know what to expect.

As a new member to this forum I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I received replies to my query. You may expect further queries as my wife and I get closer to our departure date.

thanks again,
Chris

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Yosemite and Death Valley Routes

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