(TGA) - I am planning to do a road trip from Lasvegas, NV to South lake Tahoe, CA during the Dec 22nd 2009, and as per the google maps it is routing me thru state highways US-95N, to CA-266N, to US-6W and to CA120W, and I know it is bit long drive would like to see the country side.
Can you please suggest me if this is the right route to take especially during snow times and christmas and do I need a 4WD or AWD vehicle as per the maps terrains seems to be thru mountains, as I am renting a car for this trip.
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That is not a very good routing. US 95 is quite isolated. You must be prepared for winter driving. You MUST carry chains and know how to use them. The passes into South Lake Tahoe are higher than 8,000 feet and you may have chain requirements.
You must check with your rental car agency about driving with chains.
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Good advice from PareoB. I'd like to add that some of the higher passes close during the winter. Check before you attempt the drive. Have a safe trip!
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They gave you that route because it is the most direct.....however, you will never make it, as the map people do not take into account winter road closures. Hwy 120 from Benton to US 395 is closed for the winter. Hwy 95 north from Las Vegas is fine, but you might consider turning just north of Walker Lake Alt. 95 to Yerington and then over to Hwy 395 north to Minden and taking 207 (Kingsbury Grade) which drops you at Lake Tahoe right near the casino/stateline area. Or- You can continue north on 95 till you get to Hwy 50, and that will take you to Lake Tahoe.
As mentioned- the weather and chain controls can be a factor on this drive and you must be prepared.
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I dont want to hijack the topic, but i am planning to drive the same route in the beginning Feb 2010. Will there be road closures during feb as well? Is it easier to perhaps just fly to Reno except i was planning to drive to San Fran after lake tahoe and then back to LA. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
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February will likely be even worse. I'd fly to Reno, rent a car and return it in San Francisco. You will probably want to rent an AWD or 4wheel drive vehicle. Check weather conditions before you try driving from Lake Tahoe to San Francisco.
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I would probably plan on driving if you are ok with driving in inclimate weather (snow/icy conditions). February is generally still snow season for this area you are traveling to. However, if the roads are clear (the main ones the highway crews try to keep open), you will be able to drive. Best to plan to drive during daytime hours (and not at night.). CaSwede gave a great set of directions for this time of year. You can check on line regarding the weather and road conditions. However, if you do not like winter driving, then plan on flying to Reno.
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