Hi,

As has been stated, you don't need to worry much about winter driving at all. I-5 should be good all the way, except for a brief section from about Roseburg, OR to Redding, CA. After that it is all downhill.

Or if you have the time and inclination you could drive the coast to Eureka, CA, or all the way to San Francisco or even Los Angeles, before heading east. If you want to avoid the Interstates you can wind your way across southern California into Arizona using any number of interesting, lightly traveled roads.

Hwy 178 out of Bakersfield, past Lake Isabella is good. From there you can make your way to Twenty-nine Palms and Joshua Tree, as has been suggested. Then Palm Springs, the Salton Sea and the Blythe Intaglios are within striking distance.

WILDFLOWER WARNING: Depending on just when in February, but the wildflowers in Anza Borego and other southern California areas could be in bloom and well worth taking a detour to see! There are several websites to check for updates such as DesertUSA and Photo Travel. This could be a rare opportunity if there is a decent rainy season!

Craig Sheumaker
co-author of the travel guide: America's Living History-The Early Years