jancantravel

Has anyone driven from LAX to Bishop Ca in October? Driving time? Other air ports to consider? We live in SF, so are thinking of flying to LAX and renting a car to drive from LAX to Bishop. Please note other suggestions and why...We do not want to drive over Tioga Pass, and essentially are looking for the easiest trip we can arrange, giving the max time in Bishop itself...Thanks

MmePerdu

Flying to LA from SF seems to me to be a waste of money, time and effort. Why not just drive up 80 to Reno and down 395, or 80/50 or 80/50/89 if the weather is good, to 395 and down. It may end up being a few miles farther but I think less time.

SF to Bishop via 50 & 89 is 6 hours
Via Reno is 7 hours but easier road.
LA to Bishop is 4 1/2 hours, plus flight, plus getting a car.

I'd just drive from SF.

janisj

I agree - flying to LA to drive up to Bishop makes no sense to me.

But in October I'd probably drive over Tioga Pass (assuming there is no snow) - SF to Bishop that way takes less than 6 hours and is VERY scenic.

MmePerdu

"We do not want to drive over Tioga Pass..." jancantravel

I don't blame you and why I go through Reno.

Tomsd

There are flights from SD and LA to Mammouth now - and then it's less than an hour driving time to Bishop - on clear roads. You might get a flight from SF - but it could have to go to LA first?

MmePerdu

I doubt that would be easier or shorter than just driving. And still have to rent the car. I'm an advocate of the KISS principle and anytime you add a flight, let alone 2, it ceases to be simple.

janisj

Yes -- I know they said they didn't want to . . . I mentioned it is what I personally would do because it is actually the fastest route.

But whichever route you do take -- driving is by far the easiest/fastest -- flying to SoCal to drive north simply doesn't make sense - time, money, convenience-wise . . .

(May I ask why you don't want to drive hwy 120? It isn't a scary road at all)

MmePerdu

I guess commiseration is against the rules. Nonetheless, jancantravel, I still agree regarding Tioga Pass. I have several times in days gone by but am unlikely to ever do it again. I'd rather just remember how pretty it is.

Jean

Wouldn't 108 (via Sonora) be open? It's a pretty road and doesn't have the cliff-side aspect that can be a problem for some people, and you can wave at my high school boy friend as you drive through Twain Harte!

In Jamestown, stop at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. If a Saturday or Sunday, you could take a train ride.

http://www.railtown1897.org/

MichelleY

Agree with the others. Drive. It will be so beautiful, especially in later October.

Shar

interesting that I am considering the same trip in October. I do not like mountain driving so was considering flying to LAX and renting a car. reasonable fare to LAX of $140 and car rental of $70 seems sensible to me time wise. jancantravel...is that you my friend Jan K who is driving/flying with me or rather I am flying/driving with you?

Jean

Shar, check jancantravel's other thread on this topic. I linked several sights along 395.

Jean

Here it is.

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...omment-8805090