Highway Info?

[Larry Nickell]

I'm pondering my route to the Hammers, and am concerned about travelling through the Sierra's pulling my trailer....

I'm leaning toward going to Vegas then back west. There is very little difference in travel time and mileage. I'm thinking it will be less stressful and much safer.

How is the road between Vegas and the 247 turnoff?

[Kiwi]

Originally Posted by Larry Nickell

I'm pondering my route to the Hammers, and am concerned about travelling through the Sierra's pulling my trailer....

I'm leaning toward going to Vegas then back west. There is very little difference in travel time and mileage. I'm thinking it will be less stressful and much safer.

How is the road between Vegas and the 247 turnoff?

Pretty much one longish uphill just after you cross into CA, then alot of downhill after that. Mostly fairly straight, it's a good road.

[Larry Nickell]

Thanks David. I hope there's passing lanes going up hill. Can't have those slow driving CA people holding me up!

[Joe Dillard]

The 15 between Vegas & 247 will be anywhere from 4 lanes to 2 lanes wide in each direction (unless you run into construction). The LAST thing you want to do is to be on this route going southbound on a Sunday afternoon. It's the main route between Vegas & SoCal.

The road is generally in real good shape. You'll be climbing & decending several times.

Traffic will often be traveling at 75-90mph. Most folks going ~75mph or so. The speed limit is 70mph in most areas for the cars in CA.

Towing speed is limited to 55mph, but I usually tow ~65-70mph & don't give it much thought.

[Tumbleweed]

Larry, if you are going down to Vegas area through Idaho and SLC; I have some tips. At this time of year, don't go through Twin Falls, Jackpot, Wells, Ely to Vegas. (At least not if you are towing) Yes, that route will save you 65 miles but will take longer in time vs. following I-84 to I-15. You can tow through Idaho at 75mph and not get bothered on the Interstate. Between Boise and SLC the only iffy area may be between Burley and the Utah border around Snowville. Crosswinds are common there and snow can build up. If by chance they close that section for weather; you can follow I84 to Pocatello and go to SLC that way. Little longer trip and still one pass but they seldom close that one. Traffic can get busy around SLC but it keeps moving. Expect a slow down as you come into Vegas. Lots of construction. If I had to stop for anything near Vegas, I would go through town to the south side and fuel or whatever around the Blue Diamond exit-there is a truck stop there. Less congestion that way, and easy on/off the Interstate. Or, go south to near the Cal. border and get fuel/food at Whiskey Pete's Casino. Easy on and off the Interstate. When you get to Barstow, I think the 247 exit is the middle one in town. The signs are confusing right there so pay attention. From there, it is slower going on a 2 lane but usually not busy.

If you need to stop, or have any trouble near Boise; feel free to call. 208-861-6514

[Larry Nickell]

Tumbleweed, great info, thank you very much. Extra time doesn't matter to me as much as a safe, stress free trip.

Looking at road and weather reports that I can find, this trip looks like it should be OK.

I'll be picking up a set of drag chains today just in case though.

Joe, I understand the ticket for speeding in CA while pulling a trailer is pretty hefty.... I suspect I'll be greeted with horns and that special wave a few times.