In 2001, I came down the coast to Oceanside and then linked up with Southern Tier bicycle route that went via Phoenix. Journal pages at:
http://www.mvermeulen.com/oneyear/usa.htm It was a pretty straightforward and nice ride.
In 2000, I came from San Jose via Bakersfield and then further across via Death Valley to Las Vegas. The crossing from Bakersfield via Kernsville was a nice way to cut across, though I haven't worked out exactly what you would do after that:
http://www.mvermeulen.com/vegas/index.htm
It depends a little on time of the year, but my own preference would be more towards sticking down the coast first and making the crossing further down and hence most like the first route I posted above.
Hi Mev, thanks for your reply. when you say you came down the coast, I am assuming Hwy 1? Homeyba, another experienced rider also suggested that option. Can a "bigger" person handle all the hills on the coast. I have driven parts of Hwy 1 and there some good climbs. Also how was the ride across Death Valley? How hot was it and how long did it take?. I'll check out your link and get back if I have any questions. Thanks again.
Gary