CA Traveler wrote:
No need to cross over to 5 from Reno. Continue on 395 and there are several routes through central OR to Portland.
X2 on that one ... and if you get the time, go west over Hwy 120, hit Colombia Wild West Town, and then across Hwy 49 and back over Hwy 4 to H-395. Both those routes are beautiful drives (about two hours each way), with lots of stops and camping. When heading back over Hwy 4, stop at Big Trees State Park ... nice campground, no HU, but worth it. Lots of hiking in that park - down to the river. Lots of camping along Hwy 395 too, national forests. Take your time, it's an amazing drive - that whole Hwy 395.
You can also take Hwy 88 or Hwy 50 back to Hwy 395 from Hwy 49, but the most scenic is Hwy 4 along the Carson River ...
We lived in that area for over ten years -- if you want more about Hwy 395 and Hwy 49, the gold rush country, PM is welcome. :)
IF you take Hwy 88 back over - stop at the Buckhorn Inn for Mexican eats. IF you go thru Jackson (Hwy 88and Hwy 49 crossroads) stop in Theresa's downtown ... best Italian food in three counties.