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Wheelhouse,
There are several MOC members who make just such a trip. Most of them make the trip when there is little to no chance of snow. We've crossed a couple of times during that period of time. One time we were racing a storm but it ended up being a tie. We laid up overnight on the north side of the pass out of Ashland, OR. Next morning the storm had moved on and so did we. Carry chains when told to do so by the authorities or be prepared to get ticketed.
We don't do snow or ice because we're not used to such driving. We will alter our route and or wait it out. The grades are steep but folks travel on them all the time. All the states work to keep the road open. I assume you are talking about I-5. Of course once you get beyond Dunsmuir the long and steep grades are all passed. You still have a few short ups and downs but nothing that will cause you any major concern.
There are alternative routes. Some folks go down 395. The grades are not as severe and if there is no weather 395 makes a good trip.
On the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley you will either have to cross the Tehachapis or the Grapevine. Either way you get up to just about 4,000 feet, a little over. If there are no storms either way will work. Unless you have a reason to go into the Los Angeles area I'd suggest going over the Tehachapi Pass and on into Barstow. From there choose either 15 or 40 to wherever you decide to go. Good luck and just watch the weather to make your exit! Good luck. Dennis
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