Mt Shasta to Tahoe

I should say I am heading to South Lake Tahoe.

Wow that's a tough one. Mountain roads with climbs and descents no matter how you get there.

For the least amount of time on a mountain road, my first thought would be I-5 south to Hwy 50 east to South Lake. I've done it with a 23ft TT but nothing larger. HWY 50 is a winding road in most places and two lane with some 4-lane sections or passing lanes.

The other option would be I-5 to I-80 east to Donner Pass and then south on Hwy 89. Never done this with an RV only by car. My choice would be Hwy 50 route and take your time.

I-5S to I-80E. Just outside Truckee take California 267 south to Kings Beach. Turn left, go around the lake to South Lake Tahoe. Good camping @ Zephyr Cove just north of Lake Tahoe....Dennis



Google maps will guide you all the way if you prefer..D

thanks. so not i-5 to 50 and up? We are actually staying at Zephyr.

Does RV friendly mean easiest? Or most scenic? I would take 89, 44, 36, 395 and 50. That is the most enjoyable in a recreational vehicle(RV). Of course I-5 and 50 will get you there lickidy split, but not nearly as enjoyable, IMHO

Korbe -Thanks for your response. I don't mind it taking time, and doesn't have to be the quickest. I'd rather not drive on sketchy roads with tons of bends and turns. I like what you suggested and will take a look in more detail. Thanks.

US-50 starts out nice until you get to the grade just east of El Dorado Hills. 7% pull. Then it smooths out until Pollock Pines when it begins to climb again with lots of turns and twists. Once you reach the summit there's a beautiful view of the lake, but you won't see it because you'll be watching the road and worrying about the cars lined up behind you. It was fun in my Vette or my Roadster but with your 44' toy hauler you'll not enjoy it at all.....Dennis

normlobo wrote:
thanks. so not i-5 to 50 and up? We are actually staying at Zephyr.

OPTION 1 ----Take I-5 to Hwy. 50 out of Sacramento which will drop you right into So. Lake Tahoe. Then just north about 10 miles and you will be in Zepher Groove. Takes 6 to 7hrs.

OR
OPTION 2 ----Take I-5 to 80 to 395 at Reno, then go south to Hwy 50,( Hwy. 50 is a fairly steep climb for about 8 miles but it is a multiple lane highway, no big deal) turn right and continue until you hit the Lake, then turn left when you hit the Lake , go a few miles and you are right at Zepher Groove.

DO NOT take 80 and then turn off at Truckee and then turn RIGHT Tahoe City. Turn left and drive to Hwy. 50, then turn right till you hit the Lake and the turn left to Zepher Groove. Turning right a Tahoe City to get to South Lake Tahoe is a congested cluster of traffic and usual a lot of road construction. When you get to around Meeks Bay you will be climbing hills and switch backs where you can almost look and see the total side of your rear trailer. NOT RV FRIENDLY:(:(:(:(

Personally I like 1-5, Hwy. 50 to South Lake Tahoe because the RV park I use is closer. Either way is fine:):):)

89 is gorgeous but I wouldn't drive it at night (dusk or dawn) secondary to the wildlife on the roadways.

normlobo wrote:
Korbe -Thanks for your response. I don't mind it taking time, and doesn't have to be the quickest. I'd rather not drive on sketchy roads with tons of bends and turns. I like what you suggested and will take a look in more detail. Thanks.

There is a number of "pull outs" along 50 so you don't get real long lines of cars and angry drivers behind you:):)