Christmas trip to Gold Country: Q on distances & day trip to Lake Tahoe
 

I'm trying to plan a trip with my elderly (but mobile) father from 23-26 December in the Gold Country. We will be driving out from SF. I could use some advice on what's realistic and advisable as far as covering distances and handling weather conditions in a rental car.

I am thinking of staying somewhere like Folsom (just east of Sacramento) or Auburn. That's because we prefer something more like a full-service hotel than a B&B, and because if the weather is bad I'd like to preserve the option of us going easily to the movies.

If we stay in Auburn, is it realistic to:
- spend a day driving down Route 49 to Columbia and back (question is about distance)?
- spend a day driving over to Lake Tahoe on Route 50, and either take the drive around it or just go someplace pretty on the shore (question is about distance and weather and crowding over Christmas holidays)?

I've checked http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ , California's online guide to road conditions. Nothing there shows chains required or bad weather on any of the roads in question -- now. But I don't have a sense of whether that's more likely than not to persist.

Any recommendations welcome.

Folsom is on the Gold Country side of Sacto - close to Placerville - as well as next to hiway 50 - which the way to South Shore Tahoe, Heaveny Valley Ski Area, the casinos, etc.

Auburn is on 80 - on the way to North Shore, Squaw Valley Ski area - and a couple casinos at Stateline.

Folsom has a very cuteVictorian era downtown area - as does Auburn. From Auburn over to Folsom - going the "back" way - is probably 20 plus minutes.

From Folsom to the start of Gold Country - is probably 30? minutes? And to South Shore - assuming the roads are clear - an hour and a half to two hours, depending on how you drive, etc, about the same driving time as going from Auburn to the North Shore. (Assuming you aren't caught in traffic heading to Tahoe - Friday afternoons, etc - and ask the locals about that).

As far as chain controls - if it snows - they slap on the controls pretty quickly - on the way to Tahoe anyway. Gold country is lower altitude - and probably doesn't get as much snow?/chain controls - but haven't really driven there in the winter.

The only way around that sometimes is to rent a 4 wheel drive - which is more expensive.

You will just have to check the weather conditions when you arrive.

Driving from Auburn to Columbia and back for a day trip would be doable, but a very looooong day and not enjoyable. If you base in Auburn, it would make more sense to take in Navada City and Grass Valley. If you base in Folsom, you could get to Placerville or down to Sutter Creek easily. I would just see what the weather does before heading to Tahoe. If it snows, chain control will be in effect on both 50 and I 80. Not sure if chains are allowed on rental cars. You would need to check this before heading out.

Since most people will take Monday off, traffic should not be too bad on Sunday, 12/23.

Thanks. I've booked us in at the Holiday Inn in Auburn. Any comparisons of scenery and interest in heading north (up toward Nevada City) versus south (down toward Sutter Creek)?

I'm not going to try to deal with driving anywhere that would require chains (and I think many rental car contracts disallow chains anyhow), so if roads are snowy, we'll just avoid them. Assuming no snow, what would make a nice Tahoe day trip from Auburn? 50 or I-80 (which one?) over to the lake, and then a circuit, or is that too ambitious?

"<i>Assuming no snow, what would make a nice Tahoe day trip from Auburn? 50 or I-80 (which one?) over to the lake, and then a circuit, or is that too ambitious?</i>"

You could VERY easily drive up 80 to Truckee or (via I-80 and 89) Tahoe City, around the west side of the Lake and back on hwy 50 in one day. But ONLY if the pavement is dry and there are no hints of rain or snow. Conditions can change in a flash. Back in October I drove up to Northshore/Incline Village - when I left Sacramento it was 64F at lake level - that night it snowed and I-80 was closed - total white out conditions. I was 'stuck' at Tahoe for 4 days. There are worse places to be stuck for 4 days :) but probably not what you have in mind.

And the reason I said - only if the pavement is dry - black ice can be a problem even if it isn't snowing.

(BTW -there is no place called 'Stateline' at North Shore)

It will be very, very crowded at Tahoe at Christmas. The road around the lake is only two lanes, and very winding, so the traffic will be very slow. Going all the way south to highway 50 would take too long. I would confine my trip to the North Shore, with a nice meal, perhaps in Tahoe City at Wolfdale's (expensive but delicious, a comfortable dining room). You could also drive into Squaw Valley on the way from 80 just for a look around. This trip would be subject to the weather, of course.

Grass Valley and Nevada City are nice small towns nestled in hilly country, both Gold Rush towns. The Empire Mine is there, although it might be closed that weekend ( check first).

Driving into Squaw Valley is very pretty, and you could even have lunch there looking up the mountain.

But as noted - if it looks like it might snow - they will slap chain controls on very quickly - especially at the higher passes.

Is there a resource you trust for on-the-go weather forecasts of snow, etc.? I'm thinking radio station, website, something that I can check before we set out for Tahoe and while we're en route.

Tomsd, do they put on chain controls even when it just looks like it might snow out there (i.e., before there's snow on the ground)?

There are some radio stations in the area that have up to date weather/forecasts - which other members can provide. :)

Just checked the WeatherChannel.com - and their 10 day forecast had snow possible through the 24th - but it might be clear for a few days after that? Just a "prediction" though.

You never know really for sure - until you get there - and from my experience - they do not put the chain controls on ahead of time, but if the snow starts sticking - they go on pretty fast after that. Hey - the "chain monkeys" have to make their Christmas spending money, eh? :)

If it was clear - you could drive up - and then while driving around the North Shore - carefully monitor the radio stations to see if anything is blowing in.

If it looked like it was going to stay clear - you could consider driving around the beautiful lake and back down 50 from South Shore, depending on traffic, etc.

You could check Cal Trans or KFBK 1530 websites.

tahl: "<i>Tomsd, do they put on chain controls even when it just looks like it might snow out there (i.e., before there's snow on the ground)?</i>"

I'm not tom but since I actually I live in the area . . . Chain controls are only implemented when dangerous road conditions have been reached. What they do sometimes do before chains are required, is stop vehicles (mainly big rigs but occasionally others) and screen them to make sure they are carrying chains.

Since down here in the valley they are predicting rain off and on for the next week, the chance of snow is pretty high.

As MichelleY says (She actually lives in the area too) KFBK 1530 will have the most frequent road condition reports.

And CalTrans hwy info number that is continuously updated is 1-800-427-7623

Right now chains are required on both 80 and 50

(BTW - re the suggestion that a 4wd would solve the problem - When there are chain controls the requirement is that 4wd vehicles must have snow tires - and one rented in the valley won't)

Let's see if I understand this: If it's clear - they are still going to check autos for chains?

BTW - the weather report - 10 day - predicted clearing starting about the 24th (10% chance of snow/precip) and 0% on the 25th and 26th, yet you will only know for sure when those days arrive. :)

Just checked the 10 day weather report for Lake Tahoe - and the 24th looks clear, but again, you have to check the day you might want to try and drive up from the Sacto area.

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenda...oe+CA+USCA0584

Actually - think it was clear on the 25th/Christmas Day - but again - that's just a prediction and you have to check to see what - if any - clear day there may be while you are visiting.

I will definitely check the weather actually on the day if we're thinking of a road trip toward Tahoe. Don't want to be caught unawares!

If you hear that there are chain restrictions on I-80, you can take the Amtrak CA Zephyr from either Sacramento or Emeryville to Colfax CA. The Zephyr leaves SAC shortly after 11AM.
The trip over the Sierras is fantastic. You could also take the train all the way to Reno and rent a car there.

Actually - I would check the weather daily - and if you have a clear day - go for it while you can. :)

The train could also be fun - and maybe in Reno - they have 4 wheel drives with snowtires - if needed.

I recently purchased new tires for my 4 WD and told the tire guy that I needed Mud & Snow rated tires. He says only the very lamest (not his words) would not be rated for Mud & Snow since nearly all tires now are. So most of you will see on the wall of your tire M&S.


Since your focus seems to be Columbia/Gold Country and Tahoe via 50 you should re-think staying in Folsom. There are so many places that are nice just off Scott Road which would give you really quick freeway access to drive up to Tahoe or to catch 49 south. Assume you would not drive 49 between Auburn & Placerville as that road can be snowy around Foresthill and higher.

My mom lives in Auburn s I am familiar with the Holiday Inn you mention. Good news - it's right next to In & Out burger. ;) Anyway it's easy on and off the freeway, close to the old town area but Auburn can be congested at times. Ughnot that Folsom isn't don't get me wrong.

Just so you know, as far as casinos go, the better casinos are not at the lake. They are Thunder Valley on the border with Roseville & Lincoln off 65 and Red Hawk in Shingle Springs off 50.

I'd skip the train idea unless you want to spend an overnight since you can't go up and back in one day. The Cal Zephyr does not appear to travel between Auburn & Truckee so you'd have to take Amtrak Capitol Corridor down to Sacramento or drive up to Colfax to catch it.

Thanks. We aren't interested in doing an overnight, visiting casinos, or anything involving a separate train trip -- looking for a pleasant 'Sunday drive' experience, with a couple stops to eat. We will have Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for driving around from our base in Auburn.

I'm not hugely worried about congestion in Auburn. We've spent recent Christmases in Carmel and in Sonoma and found no problems. Tahoe is a different kettle of fish, of course.

The current forecast for Placerville over the holidays is entirely above freezing, except for a dip to 29 degrees on the night of the 24th. Looks like 40s in the area during the day. I'm guessing snow won't be an issue along Rte. 49.

Those forecasts can change if a storm blows in quicker than expected - or lingers around.

Just keep checking - and again - I would suggest you take the first clear day and zip up to Tahoe. :)

Are you looking for restaurant recommendations? I live in El Dorado Hills, adult son works in Placerville and we frequents the entire area. Let us know if you need some recommendations.

There are several nice wineries in the Auburn and Placerville area. If you are interested in visiting any of them I can recommend a few.

Along Hwy 49 on the way to Placerville is Marshal Gold Discovery State Park. It is where gold was discovered by James Marshall at Sutter's saw mill. The saw mill is still there along with several buildings. It is worth a short stop.

Keep in mind that many if not most restaurants are closed in Christmas Day.

I would recommend going to Nevada City/ Grass Valley. The towns are just 5 miles apart and only about a 30 minute lovely drive from Auburn. It is vey scenic and Nevada City is so well preserved. They really decorate for Christmas and have a fun holiday parade. I would call the chamber of commerce or visitor center to find out about restaurants that might be open. The townspeople are very friendly. There is a wonderful movie theater in old downtown Grass Valley, built in 1942 and fairly well preserved. There are live theater productions in both towns also. All very quaint. We've gone twice this year and loved the area.

The elevation at Nevada City is under 2500 ft, it would be less likely to have snow, but if it does snow, it might just be a light dusting. There are beautiful drives nearby, further on Hwy 49 or to the old former town of Bridgeport ( see the covered bridge at the state park there) or drive out to the Lakeview area.
There is also a level walking trail that follows the old flukes from gold mining days. It is wide and flat and wheelchair accessible with benches along the way.

And yes, Empire Mine State Park is fantastic . Also Northstar Mining Museum. Both are in Grass Valley.

Grass Valley is pretty - and if you can't get to Tahoe - would be nice.

Just checked the 10 day weather report again for Tahoe - and it looks like the 25th is still the only clear day. Looks like it might be a break between storms?

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenda...+USCA0584:1:US

Ah, Nevada City sounds like it might be a perfect outing.

Yes, I'm interested in hearing about local restaurants. We are not looking for formal, dress-up places -- casual family restaurants are more our style. For context -- we had a lovely Christmas-Day lunch last year at a seafood place on the Santa Cruz pier. We had a nice Christmas Eve 'big meal' a few years ago at The Girl And The Fig in Sonoma. I'm particularly interested in places in Auburn that would serve big waffle-y breakfasts (not necessarily on Christmas Day).

Apologies for my ignorance -- but if there's been heavy snow in preceding days in Lake Tahoe, or Squaw Valley, wouldn't chains be required even if it were not actively snowing at the time?

Not sure if there is heavy snow coming in or not.

Even if they have put on chain controls - sometimes they can clear the road for a while - and all traffic goes through - and then later - if it snows again - chain controls go up once more.

The quaint old town of Folsom has some nice restaurants, as I guess Auburn would too.

BTW- if I read this right - there are no chain controls on at the moment on I-80.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi

Yikes. Auto-spellcheck can be a nuisance! The trail follows the flumes (not flukes) near Nevada City. It is called the Independence Trail.

I would not try to get into Tahoe in between snowstorms. There is always residual snow on the ground not to mention ice after a big storm. You need a few days with sun/warmer temps to really clear the roads. It would still be risky to travel without chains.

I agree with MonicaRichards. Nevada City/ Grass Valley will be lovely. Have a nice Christmas and enjoy yourselves.

It's going to be snowing pretty consistently for the next week so maybe Tahoe isn't going to be an option.

And you definitely don't want to try to squeeze Tahoe in 'between storms'.

You are absolutely right, I don't! Really looking forward to the trip.

Elnap29, thank you for suggesting I check events in Nevada City: looks like they have a 'Victorian Christmas' event on all over town on the afternoon of Sunday, December 23rd. I'm not sure that we will go to that (timing, crowds, etc.), but it sounds like it'd be a lovely town to visit the next day.

Nevada City Victorian Christmas is really nice. It goes on during the month of December so the 23rd isn't the only night but it is the last. If you are concerned about crowds then do go later as the cute town is dressed up. Easy to get there from Auburn.

http://www.nevadacitychamber.com/cel...ian-christmas/

Not sure what you're looking at, Tom, or when you looked, but chain control is definitely on. From the CalTrans website:

[IN THE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA AREA & SIERRA NEVADA]
CHAINS ARE REQUIRED ON ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT 4-WHEEL-DRIVE VEHICLES WITH SNOW
TIRES ON ALL 4 WHEELS FROM 3 MI EAST OF GOLD RUN (PLACER CO) TO THE
NEVADA STATE LINE

Well the snow didn't come in until later. At 7:30am it hadn't started snowing yet. I guess that proves that weather & road information isn't valuable until the moment it's needed. The OP shold have the CALTRANS road info number and web site handy for up-to-date info.