I crossed the central valley from Sunset Beach State park going over the coastal hills via Pinoche Rd. About 2000 ft of climbing. Very low traffic. Once over the hills and into the central valley I went through Firebaugh and Chowchilla. No issues just following quiet roads. I was heading for Yosemite but I don't think heading south would be a problem.
I left SF via the Pacific Coast route. I guess starting at San Jose area would save time/distance but I'm not sure what the roads are like from there to Hollister.