Optimal Routes for Your Journey from Los Angeles to Sacramento

Driving from Los Angeles to Sacramento offers a variety of routes each with its own unique advantages. Whether you're looking for the fastest option, a scenic drive, or want to explore smaller towns and agricultural areas, there's a route that suits your preferences. Here are four of the most common and popular routes, along with tips to help you plan your trip.

I-5 North: The Fastest Route

Distance: Approximately 380 miles

Travel Time: About 6-7 hours, depending on traffic

This is the most direct and fastest route. You'll take I-5 North straight up the Central Valley, passing through cities like Bakersfield and Stockton. The drive is relatively flat, providing plenty of rest stops and fast-food options along the way.

US-101 North to I-5: The Scenic Route

Distance: Approximately 400 miles

Travel Time: About 7-8 hours

Start your journey on US-101 North, which offers beautiful views of the California coastline and vineyards. Eventually, you'll connect to I-5 North. While this route is longer, it's also more scenic, especially if you enjoy coastal views.

CA-99 North: The Alternative Route

Distance: Approximately 400 miles

Travel Time: About 7-8 hours

This route takes you on CA-99 North, which runs parallel to I-5, but passes through more towns and agricultural areas. It's a great option if you want to stop in smaller communities and experience a bit more of the local culture.

I-15 North to CA-58 West to I-5: The Longer Scenic Route

Distance: Approximately 420 miles

Travel Time: About 8-9 hours

This route takes you northeast on I-15, then west on CA-58, and finally north on I-5. It offers a mix of desert and mountainous scenery, particularly through the Tehachapi Mountains. This route provides a more extended and scenic journey but may take a little longer.

Tips for the Drive

Check Traffic: Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so plan your departure accordingly. Rest Stops: Take breaks to stretch and refuel. There are plenty of rest areas along I-5 and other major routes. Weather Conditions: Be aware of weather conditions, especially in winter, as they can affect travel times. Cal. 88 connecting 395 to the Sac. Valley is closed in winter, and you might face similar issues with US 50 or I-80. Cal. 88 is a modern-engineered, lightly traveled, and wonderfully scenic mountain route, especially in winter. Other scenic trans-Sierra routes like Cal. 108 Sonora Pass and Cal. 120 through Yosemite N.P. connect to Sac. through the interesting Mother Lode gold country. These routes add about 3 to 4 hours to your journey but are doable in a single long day or a scenic two-day tour. Coastal Route: Note that Cal. 1 south of Big Sur was recently closed due to a major landslide and may be closed for a year or longer. The US 101 alternative is fine but includes no coastal scenery north of San Luis Obispo.

Choose the route that best fits your preferences for speed, scenery, and stops along the way! Each route has its own charm, so you can tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you prefer speed, scenery, or local experiences, you'll find the perfect route for your trip from Los Angeles to Sacramento.