Road Trip Help (Portland, Bend, Klamath Falls: dangerous, gas, best)

[Katyblue]

Hi there.

I was wondering if any of you had experience driving from Phoenix to Portland. I was thinking of taking the Las vegas - Reno- Klamath Falls route to Portland. Google Maps calls it The Veterans Memorial Highway Route. I am unfamiliar with these highways. I'm wondering if anyone has experience with this route and if they would recommend it. Particularly the Reno to Klamath to Portland part. Thanks!

[Rob Allen]

I haven't driven it but that sounds like the scenic route. If that's what you want, fine. If you'd rather get here quickly, take the Interstate from Phoenix toward LA and then I-5 to Portland.

What time of year will you be doing this? There are some mountain passes on any route so you could encounter snow in the winter.

[hamellr]

I am extremely familiar with the Reno-Klamath Falls-Portland route.

I can say that Reno to K-Falls is a most excellent piece of scenic road. The biggest problem is that it gets old after the first hundred miles. The road isn't always in the best of repair, although they do try to keep it up. There are a few places where you'll get stuck behind RVs.

My suggestion is to take lots of water, extra CD's or tapes, and try not to let your gas tank go under half way. Also stop at every chance you can to get pictures. Much of the time you'll see a great view but it'll be too dangerous to stop.

Klamath Falls to Portland is another great road. I suggest you stay on 97 all the way through Bend, and then take 26 through Madras. I personally like this route better then going over the hills through Sisters to I-5. Again, take water, music and fill up on gas when you can.