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What’s the best scenic route from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

I’m heading to San Francisco from Las Vegas for a business trip in a few weeks. I usually fly, but I’ve decided to change things up this time and drive. What’s the most scenic route to get there?

avatar
Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Flying has its perks, but there’s something thrilling about hitting the open highway—and the drive from
Last Vegas
to
San Francisco
is no exception. There are several routes from Las Vegas to San Francisco, but the views along U.S. Route 95** can’t be beat. You’ll cover 560 miles in about 10 hours and 10 minutes.
Heading to San Francisco along the Sierra Nevada route (U.S. route 95) takes a couple of hours longer, but the sights are worth it. Here’s the directions:
Take U.S. Route 95 northwest past Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Follow it along Death Valley and make a sharp left on State Route 266. Once you pass Boundary Peak, head for California via Route 6, then merge onto State Route 120 at Benton. Pass Inyo National Forest. You’ll see Mono Lake on your right, but take a left and enter Yosemite National park via the Tioga Pass.
After exiting the park, stay on State Route 120 and drive past Red Hills Recreational Management Area and Woodward Reservoir Park. After reaching Manteca-San Francisco, merge between Interstates 5, 205, and 580. Once you’re in
Oakland
, cross the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and say hello to San Francisco!
But before putting the pedal to the metal, there are a few things you should do—top up your fluids, check your tires and brakes, and update your car insurance policy. Since you’re traveling a reasonable distance, consider upgrading your car insurance policy to include
towing coverage
using
Jerry
!
Rated the #1 rated car insurance app, Jerry scans through 55+ top insurance providers to find you the affordable, customized coverage. Once you find the right policy, connect with an expert to finalize the details and cancel your existing insurance policy.
MORE: San Francisco to Yosemite road trip
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