San Diego to PDX

[nscaler]

Definitely stop in Grants Pass. Very scenic there.
I had the back of my smart full of luggage and there were no heat issues. I still recommend a scangauge II. It will show you water temp., average mpg for your tank, how many miles till empty (my favorite) and gallons used. Very simple to connect up to any car.

[SanDiegoJohn]

101 vs 5 is really based on "the journey" or "the destination" ...
If you want to get there, then take the 5.
If you want to stop and look around, the 101 is the way to go.
Also if you really have the time, at San Luis Obispo turn off the 101 and take Hwy 1 to Monterey. Prob the most beautiful drive in CA.

[Karl Roth]

Bring music the radio seems to not hold stations very long other than that just enjoy the trip. Miette will take good care of you and Lola and don't worry about engine heat cooking anything. after an 11 hour run this summer the cover was cool to the touch. Enjoy
karl

[Suze]

Originally Posted by SmartShanna

Hi all,
I am thinking about making a solo trip in Miette with my trusty pup, Lola, to Portland, OR but I have the usual concerns. Namely, how long I can stand to drive without someone to swap steering wheel duties with. And Lola isn't much of a conversationalist so I worry about staying alert--hmmm, I could take an ex- to argue with, that would keep me awake Anyway, your thoughts on this escapade?

I am thinking of heading to Paso Robles on Day 1, then Davis or possibly Arcata-ish on Day 2, and then PDX on Day 3. Then turn back around on Day 4. No, just kidding about that part.

SmartShanna!

Yes, do it!

Having just returned from my drive PDX to SF and back I have to say it was a wonderful experience.

On the way back, took 2 days; Day one was highway 1 out of SF, then cut over on highway 20 from Mendocino to 101 at Willets. Day 2 from Willits to Crescent city, then took 199 to Grants Pass and I-5 the rest.

I loved the highway 1 and highway 20 parts - very curvy and steep. I learned all about smart's Electronic Stability Program - first hand!

Of course on the way down it really helped that I had John H and Susie 1382 with me the first day and Susie the second day. And on the way back, had Susie with me the first day and part of the second. But still I was alone in the car and doing all the driving myself. I know how you feel - wondering if you'll get tired, bored, lonely, exhausted, but just allow enough time, stop often, pack energy bars, know your limits and enjoy it.

I'll buy the first round when you get to PDX! (We have lots of dog friendly pubs, ya know)


Suze