Barstow to Bakersfield CA.-CA-58

Caltrans

It's 'fixed'. 58 is a very major route. They got it open quickly. If you've traveled that route before, you'll easily identify remnants along the shoulder. Must have been much more of a nightmare than even local news made it out to be. With the weather predicted this week in So Cal, I would definitely keep an eye on things.

Caltrans road conditions link

Several rainstorms this week might change things.

This time of year, also be alert to wind and dust storms in the desert. Not a huge problem, but something to be aware of.

Nothing is immune to these problems. Remember - Interstate 10 was also closed in recent months due to sudden flooding and drain washouts. In my experience, Highway 58 has been quite reliable over the years. As others have pointed out , pay attention to traffic conditions when traveling in the Winter.

MottissMT36RL wrote:
Last fall I saw a report when we were in Seattle that CA-58 was blocked by a mud slide. I need to make a trip to Bakersfield in the next 2 weeks. I am looking for information about the route,Condition and Construction.

I just drove over Hwy. 58 from Bakersfield on 1/4/15. No problem but there is one small segment of about 200 yards where there is a one lane detour but then jumps right back on the freeway. I found the "The Weather Channel" application the least reliable or accurate for weather or road conditions. When I was getting to leave Bakersfield that morning the application was reporting a weather alert "high wind up to 55mph", travel not recommended for RVers or big trucks. I checked the "Wunderground" and "Weather" apps. who reported 20 MPH winds. I took off and hit winds 15 to 20 approx. Had no trouble towing a 34' 5th wheel. I also just googled Tehachapi weather and got much more accurate weather and road conditions. The problem I have experienced with "Cal Trans" reports is they were not always current reports.

Route 58 is in good condition from I14 all the way into Bakersfield. Areas of mudslide are cleaned up and good to go. We are experiencing rain yesterday and today with more expected this Saturday.

Thanks, too everyone for the info. I have traveled home on this route going from Seattle to Houston. This is our "snow in WY and CO" route home. This trip I will driving the car. An alternative would be I-10 into the LA area then up I-5 to Bakersfield then on to Seattle.

MottissMT36RL wrote:
Thanks, too everyone for the info. I have traveled home on this route going from Seattle to Houston. This is our "snow in WY and CO" route home. This trip I will driving the car. An alternative would be I-10 into the LA area then up I-5 to Bakersfield then on to Seattle.

Be sure and check the road and weather conditions on the Grape Vine.