Distance and estimated driving time
The drive from Los Angeles to Redding spans approximately 543 miles via I-5 N, offering a scenic and direct route. Travelers can expect an estimated travel time of about 7 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey passes through diverse landscapes, including urban areas and rural regions, providing a variety of sights along the way. Planning for rest breaks and potential delays can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Driving route
Embarking on a road trip from Los Angeles to Redding, travelers will pass through a diverse array of cities and landscapes. Starting in Los Angeles, the route takes you through Ontario, Perris, and San Jacinto, offering glimpses of Southern California's suburban scenery. Continuing northward, the journey leads through San Bernardino, Victorville, and Barstow, transitioning into the arid desert landscapes of California's inland empire. After crossing into Nevada, the trip highlights the vibrant city of Las Vegas before reaching the Mojave Desert town of Baker. Finally, the route concludes in Redding, where lush forests and natural beauty envelop visitors after a scenic and varied drive.
Best time to leave for optimal traffic conditions
The best time to depart from Los Angeles for Redding to avoid heavy traffic is early in the morning, ideally before 6:00 AM, when most commuters are still on the road. Traveling during weekday mornings or late evenings can also help you bypass the congestion typically experienced during rush hours. If planning to leave during weekends, consider departing mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid peak travel times. Starting your journey during off-peak hours ensures a smoother drive through busy areas such as San Bernardino, Victorville, and Las Vegas, allowing for a more relaxed trip and timely arrival in Redding.
Scenic spots along the route
Traveling from Los Angeles to Redding offers a variety of stunning scenic spots worth exploring. Along the route, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the expansive Mojave Desert near Victorville and Baker. In Las Vegas, the dazzling Strip provides vibrant cityscape vistas, while nearby areas like Barstow offer unique desert landscapes and historic Route 66 sights. As you approach Redding, the terrain transitions to lush forests and serene river views, making the journey as scenic as the destination itself.
Rest stops and amenities available
Traveling from Los Angeles to Redding offers numerous rest stops equipped with a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. Along the route, drivers can find well-maintained rest areas and service plazas with clean bathrooms, picnic areas, and vending machines at key locations such as Ontario, Perris, San Bernardino, Victorville, and Barstow. In Las Vegas and Baker, travelers have access to full-service gas stations, restaurants, and shopping centers for longer breaks and refueling. Additionally, outdoor areas and roadside parks available at various points provide scenic spots to relax and stretch, making the trip safe and enjoyable.
Vehicle preparation tips for long drive
Before embarking on a long journey from Los Angeles to Redding, it's essential to properly prepare your vehicle to ensure a safe and smooth trip. Check the tire pressure and tread depth, as well as fluid levels including oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid, to prevent breakdowns along the way. Inspect your brakes and ensure all lights and signals are functioning correctly for optimal safety. Additionally, pack an emergency kit with items such as a first aid kit, snacks, water, and basic tools to handle any unforeseen situations during the drive.
Weather forecast for the route
Traveling from Los Angeles to Redding, the weather forecast indicates a generally mild and pleasant journey along the route. In Southern California, travelers can expect warm temperatures and clear skies, ideal for driving. As you head through the deserts near Victorville, Barstow, and Baker, be prepared for rising temperatures and dry conditions, with possible afternoon heat peaks. Approaching Redding, the climate shifts to more temperate conditions, with cooler temperatures and a chance of increasing cloud cover, making your drive comfortable and enjoyable throughout the day.
Fuel stations and costs along the way
As you drive from Los Angeles to Redding, you'll find numerous fuel stations along the route, especially in larger cities like San Bernardino, Victorville, and Barstow. Fuel prices tend to increase as you approach desert and border areas, with typical costs ranging from $4.50 to $6.00 per gallon, depending on location and station brand. Major highway stopovers in cities such as Las Vegas and San Bernardino offer competitive rates and multiple fueling options. Planning ahead and refueling in larger towns can help you manage costs and avoid running low in more remote stretches like Baker or near Kraft.
Safety tips for highway driving
When driving on busy highways like the route from Los Angeles to Redding, safety should always be a priority. Stay alert and avoid distractions such as mobile phones to react quickly to any sudden changes in traffic conditions. Maintain a safe following distance, especially when traveling through unfamiliar areas like Victorville and Las Vegas, to prevent rear-end collisions. Additionally, observe speed limits and adjust your driving to weather and road conditions, particularly when passing through desert terrains like Baker and Barstow, to ensure a secure journey.
Alternate routes in case of road closures
When driving from Los Angeles to Redding, it's wise to consider alternate routes in case of road closures. One option is to take Interstate 210 east from Los Angeles to bypass potential closures on the main route, then connect to Interstate 15 north through San Bernardino and Victorville. Alternatively, travelers can head northeast through the Inland Empire towards the Riverside area and take State Route 60 east before merging onto Interstate 215 north, offering a scenic and less congested path. If closures occur near Las Vegas or along the 40 corridor through Baker, drivers can consider detouring through the Sierra Nevada foothills via smaller highways like Route 89, which can route around problem spots while providing an adventurous alternative. Planning these options ahead of time ensures a smoother journey despite unforeseen closures or delays.