CA Hwy 1

[Veebyes]

It is winter & time to think about places to go this year.

What is Hwy 1 like from Bodega Bay to Leggett? We have done Hwy 1 N to S before, Fort Bragg to Bodega Bay no issues dragging the trailer. We are just under 55'LOA & have done our share of CO passes, OR passes, TN & NC Appalachian backroads with it in tow. Mountains & small roads don't usually scare us.

The section of some concern is DeHaven to Leggett with trailer. Are there any official length restrictions along that section?

[profdant139]

For whatever this is worth, I have made that trip several times towing a small trailer. We did not cross over the line at all. But it is a twisty road, sometimes busy, and the driver will not get to do much sight-seeing.

Average speeds are substantially less than 30 mph, especially if there is local traffic making left turns. (Obviously, it is a narrow two lane road, and there are few if any left turn bays.). And some of those locals brake real fast before using the turn signal, so watch out. Don't ask how I know this.

If your destination is on Highway 1, such as the RV park at Westport or whatever, then of course you would take the coast. But if you want to get up the coast faster, take Highway 20 to the 101.

And if you want to stop and take pictures, you are much better off doing that when traveling southbound. There are pullouts with great ocean views. Not so much when heading northbound.

[Alan_Hepburn]

enblethen wrote:
My memory says the switchbacks are associated with a steep change in elevation. Your trailer could contact the trucks bed if taken too sharp.

We did that drive a few years ago in our car, and followed a large diesel pusher for a while. At EVERY one of those tight turns his outside front lower fascia hit the road surface as he applied brakes and turned.

[time2roll]

I believe the real concern is the trailer crossing over into oncoming traffic or leading wide with the truck to keep tires on the pavement. Take it slow and all will be fine.

[enblethen]

My memory says the switchbacks are associated with a steep change in elevation. Your trailer could contact the trucks bed if taken too sharp.

[Veebyes]

I did some looking at some of the switchbacks on Google street view. Did not see anything worse than experienced on some of the access roads to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

[enblethen]

I was blind! That is the map that I was looking at.

[time2roll]

Sorry wrong maps 😉

Says 30' KPRA. (King Pin to Rear Axle). That would be a very large fifth wheel to be excluded.

CA Truck maps

[enblethen]

Looks like OP has a fifth wheel trailer.
There was a king pin to axle limitation. Did a quick search and did not find it on Caltrans website.

[time2roll]

Over 40' is prohibited. I think you get an extra 10' if you have a trailer.

CA Bus-Motorhome map. see 1 & 4

[CA_Traveler]

Slow going near Leggett with several switchbacks. No restrictions for you.

[Lwiddis]

Caltrans says not advised for trailers but not prohibited. See the YouTube video. I take Hwy. 20.