Seattle to San Diego and back!

[Vigstrup]

Hi!

I'm planning to do a trip from seattle to San Diego and back in a mental rentalcar. Leaving Seattle on February 27th and returning on march 17th. It will be my first time in the states and I can't think of a better way to experience the west coast than behind the wheel.
I'm very much looking for advice about such a trip. Is it even possible to drive that far in 18 days or so? I'm also a little concerned about the weatherconditions due to the fact that it will be winter still in Washington?

Thanks a bunch

[PNW Judy]

Three weeks gives you time for a nice trip.

I would explore Seattle for a few days then take the ferry over to the Olympic Peninsula. Travel around the peninsula on 101 and then go south on 101 all the way to California where you will veer over to CA-1 when it's available to hug the coast. This will take you all the way into San Diego. It's about 1800 miles. I would allow 2 weeks for this leg of the trip. This would give you ample time to explore all the points along the way. It's about 1800 miles and could be driven in 3-4 days but this wouldn't leave much time to explore.

On the way back, I would take I-5. Along the way, explore Yosemite, Mt. Shasta, Crater Lake, Portland, and Mt. St. Helens. This can easily be done in a week. This is about 1270 miles without the detours and could be driven, without any sightseeing, in 2 days. Veering off to Yosemite, Mt. Shasta, Crater Lake, and Mt. St. Helens will add about 300 miles to the trip.

The only potential weather problems I see is rain. And plan for lots of it. At least up here in Washington. That's by far one of our wetter times. However, sometimes spring will surprise us early. You might get lucky.

[daawgon]

Yes, this is very possible. I've done it with a rental car from Portland to San Diego. Beware that travel on Interstate 5 (Canada to Mexico) is dead boring, and can put one to sleep! I much prefer Highway 101.

[Mark Sedenquist]

Yes, this is very possible. I've done it with a rental car from Portland to San Diego. Beware that travel on Interstate 5 (Canada to Mexico) is dead boring, and can put one to sleep!

Boring is state of mind, and I am not positive the a particular highway is cogent in that way, there are... however, boring drivers. Beyond the esoteric discussion, I have driven all of I-5 many times and always see something new -- it is a lovely road.

Mark

[PNW Judy]

While I agree that there are no boring roads, I also agree that 101 is far superior in terms of views and vistas to I-5.

[The Taco Monster]

Going near Yosemite during winter, keep a good ear out for weather reports. Also keep in mind that most of the roads into the park will likely be closed. Ask ahead of time -- there is a year-round hotel there, for instance (Ahwahnee), also probably a ranger station. You'll enjoy it if you can get in.

TTM