Originally Posted by
David_Strang
I have a two week window in January and am thinking of possible tours in California. I have toured in a variety of countries but no experience with this area, this time of year. Would appreciate any advice!
Have thought of the following:
1) Start in San Jose, down the coast to San Diego. I know this is the rainy season, but I understand that this is a La Nina year. Does that mean the chances of significant rain are small enough to make this attractive? Or is this still too unsettled a time of year for this ride?
2) Start in San Diego, take the the Southern Tier route to Phoenix.
3) From San Diego or LA, to Joshua Tree, explore other scenic areas, return LA/SD.
Am coming from NY, would start not in great shape but mainly concerned about the weather conditions
Thanks for any advice or thoughts!
My favorite part of the coast is Monterey/Carmel to Morro Bay/San Luis Obispo. You can catch an Amtrak train from SLO to LA.
From LA you can use Metrolink to get out of the urban sprawl and into the desert. There are multiple departure times, and Union Station in LA is the hub.
LA-Palmdale is one possibility. If you have the interest, there is a wickedly impressive jet on display in Palmdale (the SR-71 was developed there). Or you can get off at the next stop, Lancaster, which is the end of the line.
Two weeks is enough time for both, and more.
Red Rock Canyon might be worth a look, and there are Joshua trees in the area.
Death Valley and Panamint Valley are also possibilities.
If you prepare well for rain and cold, you can enjoy being in both.
You'll probably find more sun out in the deserts.
Don't be afraid of the weather. It isn't that bad if you're ready for it.
You might also check out Alaska Airlines.