Traveling 395 from LA to Northern Oregon

I would prefer to take 395 north from LA over I-5 all the time, well except maybe not in the middle of winter. The scenery creates my preference, not even considering the traffic or road surface conditions.

The route is more curvy, and fuel prices may generally be higher, yes. Those concerns are not issues for us.

If you have 3x the time to travel and do not mind the wind, narrow log truck infested roads, etc..... it's a great ride. For me been there done that earlier this year for the second time, as I remember I told myself never again the first time. My memory is not as good as it should be but it will not happen again. The part from southern Oregon to Northern Oregon wow. Better to head east to say the Blues or the Eagle Cap wilderness or even try Christmas Valley as an alternative

395 would definitely be our choice. We've done it many times. There are no switchbacks if that's what concerns you. Yes, there are curves but they're not extreme. The road is a good surface; traffic isn't a concern; there are many RV parks, national forest campgrounds and boondocking spots along the way. Most of all, the scenery is stunning!

Really, when you really think about it, even if you pay .10 extra in fuel it adds up to perhaps one lunch at McDonald's! :)

If you have not been to Lake Tahoe, then take 395 and stop over in Tahoe. Done it many times in our motorhome.

395 is a beautiful alternative. Yes it's a two lane road however there are NO really tight spots .. Yes trucks use the road and that's a good thing .. It's very accessible. I've driven this twice in the last couple years and do it with s 41' MH pulling a 25' car hauler with no problems. Enjoy the scenery !!

We really enjoy 395. An inexpensive overnight is the Topaz Lake Lodge. Adjacent casino with good food.

Last time I drove 395 it didn't go through Tahoe, and if you want narrower roads go through Tahoe. Nice drive but out of the way and kinda slow around the lake. Also think I would go 31 at Valley Falls and head over Bend unless your heading to North Eastern OR. then stay 395 through Burns and NE.

LEN

Use gas buddy.com for gas prices. I have found for ease of entry the Von's Grocery store in Bishop, CA and then the Costco in Carson City, NV are good places for gas. In Bishop, CA I recommend Eric Schat's Bakery as a stop, park in the city park across the street, Rt. at the signal. In Lee Vining, CA stop at the Mobil Gas Station for a 5-star meal at the Woa Nellie Deli! http://www.whoanelliedeli.com/

garyemunson wrote:
We really enjoy 395. An inexpensive overnight is the Topaz Lake Lodge. Adjacent casino with good food.

X-2

We live in Northern Nevada and 395 does not go thru Lake Tahoe!!! You can get to Tahoe by taking the Mt. Rose hyway out of south Reno and it is about 25 miles climbing up a very windy 2 lane road from 4,400 ft to 9,000 ft. Not recommended in an RV.