California coast to Seattle
 

My husband and I are planning to drivethis May from Vegas to California coast then up the coast to Seattle. Only have 7 days. Possible? What should we see besides the redwoods?<BR>Thanks

Karen there are so many things to see. In Oregon many people like Bandon. The beaches are nice and they have fancier hotels. If you do go to that area I would suggest renting 4-wheelers if you are up to it in the North Bend/Coos Bay area or anywhere between there and Florence. Its amazing how untouched the coast is and the view from the top of a sand dune is amazing. Stopping in Eugene is a must. Its very artsy with a hippy twist. Fifth street market can't be missed. Metropolis, the bakery inside, is worth a stop all by it self. If you need more details feel free to email me.

Hi Karen,<BR>You'll love it<BR>We did this drive in September 2000 - drove from Vegas to San Diego and then stuck to the coast all the way to Seattle. Such a variety of scenery from palm fringed beaches, mountainous terrain with spectacular views of the sea and surrounds, and large sand hills and remote beaches too. Take the time to look around Santa Barbara and Monterey on the way too as we enjoyed those - agree that Coos Bay area is interesting and the sandhill options fun - in summary I think you can do this in 7 days - more would be better but life's like that. One comment I would make is that if I were to do this drive again I would do it from Seattle down - this puts you on the side of the road with the best views and is safer for when you want to stop at the picture stops which are typically on the seaward side of the highway. <BR>Enjoy - Graham (Brisbane Australia)

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Don't know if this will really fit in 7 days, but Mt. St. Helens is amazing - after all the years it still looks like the Moon and the visitors centers are fascinating. However, with only 7 days, I am not sure if it is worth the detour.

It sounds like too much driving in too short a time to me. Do you have to start in Las Vegas? Could you start in LA instead? After Big Sur would cut over on 156 to 101 to 85 to 280 and then back to 101 over the Golden Gate. This is assuming you won't stop in SF. It's a prettier ride than 101 all the way and much faster than hwy 1 all the way. You can stop for a couple wineries near Sonoma or Healdsburg. Mendocino is a wonderful town in a great area, but again it takes time to drive along the coast there. Good luck.