BajaNomad

Seattle to Asuncion - fastest route to maximize my baja time

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 01:08 AM

Howdy Nomads,

I'm back .. but this time on a short two week vacation from Seattle. I'm going to drive long hauls as much as feasible on the way down.



1836 miles. http://goo.gl/maps/380tX

Some Questions:



I'll be driving Betsy, the reliable but slow old truck. She can hit 75mph on the freeway but I tend to cruise at 55-60. Mountain passes are slow climbs.

Recommendations?

[Edited on 2014-2-24 by WideAngleWandering]

Whale-ista - 2-24-2014 at 03:51 AM

I would Cross at Tecate. The road through Guadalupe Valley to Ensenada is much improved.

You can stay at Los Olivos campground in San Quintin. It is about three hours south of Ensenada. Approx 150 mls

If you want a hotel Jardines is next door. Call to reserve to be safe. Lots of room at the campground tho.

Id say t is a day and a half from Tecate to asuncion.

Skipjack Joe - 2-24-2014 at 06:12 AM

It is best to drive through socal from 9AM to 2PM during daylight hours, but you will still encounter some traffic on hwy5 around the downtown LA area. And there is always a chance of encountering an accident. If you leave the Bakersfield area around 8AM you should pass the corridor of traffic all the way to the border before it picks up. The night time, however, is best of all.

AlanDow - 2-24-2014 at 06:44 AM

I have made several trips from Roseburg Oregon to Asuncion over the last six months, and since it is an easy 8 hour drive from San Quintin to Asuncion, I always stay at Jardines in San Quintin. And I agree with Skipjack Joe that the best time to run the so Cal gauntlet is between the morning and afternoon rush hours. So I usually plan to stay the night just north of LA (Buttonwillow or Gorman) this gets me though So Cal in the morning, and gets me to San Quintin before dark.

However if you are planning on arriving in Asuncion on Sunday, that means you are likely to pass through so Cal on Saturday which should improve your chances of missing bad traffic no matter what time you pass through (without the weekday commuters to contend with).

Also there are a few major routes through so Cal (I-5, 405, 210/15) so I always tune in KFI on the am radio as soon as I can and monitor their traffic updates so I can adjust my route if there is an accident.

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 07:35 AM

I have found that when traveling from the PNW, it is quicker and less stressful to take highway 395. Under ideal conditions, I5 is probably a bit faster but your chances of a hang ups due to heavy traffic, road construction, or weather are much higher. The bonus of driving 395 is the gorgeous scenery, no traffic, and the ability to pull over and stretch your legs whenever you want.

RnR - 2-24-2014 at 07:53 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
I have found that when traveling from the PNW, it is quicker and less stressful to take highway 395. Under ideal conditions, I5 is probably a bit faster but your chances of a hang ups due to heavy traffic, road construction, or weather are much higher. The bonus of driving 395 is the gorgeous scenery, no traffic, and the ability to pull over and stretch your legs whenever you want.


I agree. I thoroughly dislike the I-5 corridor.

Hwy 395, to I-15, to I-215, to Tecate.

Just check the snow forecast from about Alturas to Bishop. If it's not actively snowing, the roads will be clear within 8 hours of the end of any storm.

Absolutely beautiful scenery this time of year.

bajaguy - 2-24-2014 at 08:07 AM

Next time try the I-15 instead of the 215. You can eliminate the corridor and traffic from north of San Bernardino to Corona.

Also, if he wants to cover ground in the least amount of time, straight down the I-5, then Mex 1. It will take longer to take the 94 then Hwy 3 to Ensenada
Quote:
Originally posted by RnR

I agree. I thoroughly dislike the I-5 corridor.

Hwy 395, to I-15, to I-215, to Tecate.

mtgoat666 - 2-24-2014 at 08:13 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering

Seattle to Asuncion - fastest route to maximize my baja time



Take san ysidro xing.

Avoid Sacramento, LA and San Diego at rush hour

mtgoat666 - 2-24-2014 at 08:17 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by RnR
Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
I have found that when traveling from the PNW, it is quicker and less stressful to take highway 395. Under ideal conditions, I5 is probably a bit faster but your chances of a hang ups due to heavy traffic, road construction, or weather are much higher. The bonus of driving 395 is the gorgeous scenery, no traffic, and the ability to pull over and stretch your legs whenever you want.


I agree. I thoroughly dislike the I-5 corridor.

Hwy 395, to I-15, to I-215, to Tecate.

Just check the snow forecast from about Alturas to Bishop. If it's not actively snowing, the roads will be clear within 8 hours of the end of any storm.

Absolutely beautiful scenery this time of year.


395 is pretty, but much slower than 5. Also, 395 has winter weather problems, and has ski traffic at start and end of each weekend (though this year ski season has been cancelled).

boe4fun - 2-24-2014 at 08:21 AM

W-A-W, Shoot me a U2U, maybe we can caravan down together.

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 08:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by mtgoat666
Quote:
Originally posted by RnR
Quote:
Originally posted by monoloco
I have found that when traveling from the PNW, it is quicker and less stressful to take highway 395. Under ideal conditions, I5 is probably a bit faster but your chances of a hang ups due to heavy traffic, road construction, or weather are much higher. The bonus of driving 395 is the gorgeous scenery, no traffic, and the ability to pull over and stretch your legs whenever you want.


I agree. I thoroughly dislike the I-5 corridor.

Hwy 395, to I-15, to I-215, to Tecate.

Just check the snow forecast from about Alturas to Bishop. If it's not actively snowing, the roads will be clear within 8 hours of the end of any storm.

Absolutely beautiful scenery this time of year.


395 is pretty, but much slower than 5. Also, 395 has winter weather problems, and has ski traffic at start and end of each weekend (though this year ski season has been cancelled).
I have had much worse weather related delays on Siskiyou Pass than I ever have on 395.

vandenberg - 2-24-2014 at 08:46 AM

I-5 over the Grapevine, then I-210 east to I-15.
Then I-805 to the border. Lot faster than going through Tecate.

Been doing this for 25 years, so know what I'm talking about.
Used to go east out of Bakersfield to 395, but now the traffic around Ypsilante is getting as bad as LA, so the 210 is better and faster.

BajaBlanca - 2-24-2014 at 08:51 AM

If you have food and water in your vehicle and only stop for gas, from the border to la bocana is 12 hours. I have done this by myself, but the Brazilian in me really steps on the gas when there is a starightaway with no traffic.

I imagine the border to Asuncion would be the same 12 hours.

Have a wonderful trip!

Ateo - 2-24-2014 at 08:55 AM

Let's say you leave Sacramento Friday morning. You're looking at a 8-9 hour drive until you're past LA and SD traffic and hitting the border. So I'd either wake up really early (5AM) or sleep in and leave at 8AM. Either way and any way it's a crapshoot. I'd go with 5AM. That should get you to the border by 3PM, with enough time to make some progress into Mexico. Maybe stay in Ensenada Friday night. That would get you to Asuncion by Saturday night. Or take it slow and make some stops and arrive Sunday.

Hotels 4-8 hours from Asuncion? Catavina. El Rosario. San Quintin.

Oh, and I'd take I-5 to I-405 and avoid the 3 lane stretch of I-5 that doesn't end until La Mirada. Stay on I-405 till you hit the 73 toll road South to the I-5 again.

I would do San Ysidro if you're looking at speed and time considerations.

Have fun.

[Edited on 2-24-2014 by Ateo]

DianaT - 2-24-2014 at 09:31 AM

We are expecting a well needed storm this weekend in the Eastern Sierra and they are quick to put on chain restrictions especially over certain passes on 395. But if it is open, it sure beats going through LA. I also agree on I-15 and not I-215. Do carry chains even if you don't intend on using them. If they have the carry chains restriction going and you get stopped for anything else, they will check to see if you have chains.

To check road conditions anywhere in CA, call 1-800.427.7623. We find the information quite up to the moment for weather conditions, accidents, constructions, etc.

willardguy - 2-24-2014 at 09:57 AM

I see you planned your trip on the biggest rainstorm in a looong time down here! oh,wait, you're from seattle, you probably won't even notice!:lol:

mtgoat666 - 2-24-2014 at 10:41 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Ateo
Oh, and I'd take I-5 to I-405 and avoid the 3 lane stretch of I-5 that doesn't end until La Mirada. Stay on I-405 till you hit the 73 toll road South to the I-5 again.


i dunno... i think 405 thru west LA is always bad, it's bad 24/7. i just stick to the 5. it just lasts an hour or so. and your reward is good car pool lanes in OC

BornFisher - 2-24-2014 at 11:23 AM

Map Quest says I-5 all the way. Beats 395 by 2 hours.

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 11:34 AM

As always, a diversity of opinions. In summary, the best route is any one of the available routes. :) Keep in mind that I'll be driving an '84 diesel Landcruiser. Slow and steady.

I've considered:



That said, I'm leaning towards the last route for the US leg.

New questions:


[Edited on 2014-2-24 by WideAngleWandering]

Ateo - 2-24-2014 at 11:55 AM

If you're taking your time it'll be four hours from San Ysidro to San Q.

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 12:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
As always, a diversity of opinions. In summary, the best route is any one of the available routes. :) Keep in mind that I'll be driving an '84 diesel Landcruiser. Slow and steady.

I've considered:


  • I-5 to 395, crossing at Tecate. I like this crossing. A bit concerned about road conditions up north and at high elevation (Willamette Pass, Oregon? Somewhere in California?).
  • I-5 all the way to Tijuana. Cross in San Diego?
  • I-5 to just north of the grapevine, then 210, I15 and I805, crossing at San Ysidro. Never crossed here.


That said, I'm leaning towards the last route for the US leg.

New questions:

  • Can anyone describe where I can park at San Ysidro and find the office for a tourist card? I've never been asked for one in Baja but I'd rather avoid the hassle and just have it on hand.
  • Will that office giving out tourist cards on weekends?
  • What is a realistic drive time from San Ysidro to San Quintin?


[Edited on 2014-2-24 by WideAngleWandering]
I 84 to 197 to 97 to 31 to 395. Great drive little traffic.

BajaBlanca - 2-24-2014 at 12:22 PM

The tourist card, called an FMM, is available at the offices to the right as soon as you cross the border. Be sure to drive cross in the right lane. The office is open 7 days a week. Not sure about the bank to pay the fee at, that seems to vary.

willardguy - 2-24-2014 at 12:29 PM

don't forget to wave as you pass thru ensenada!:lol:

chavycha - 2-24-2014 at 12:47 PM

I wonder if it might be faster right now to go via Lancaster, Palm Desert, Mexicali and San Felipe, given the traffic in LA/San Diego as well as the toll road collapse near Ensenada. We did this route in January and I was surprised how quick it was.

DavidE - 2-24-2014 at 12:55 PM

The simpler and more direct the route, the less chance there is of missing a turn. I lived in the high Eastern Sierra for several years. I did NOT like WALKER CANYON, CONWAY SUMMIT and from the south junction the June lake loop, over the top of DEADMAN'S PASS until descending the grade toward BISHOP at Tom's Place.

When District 9 plows 395 it is to remove snow and spread cinders. A layer of compacted snow remains. When a long period of blue skies is forecast a motor grader is used to PEEL ICE, after which I used to increase speed to something approaching "normal".

The route is beautiful when there is no snow. November through March usually.

The highways from Vizcaino to Bahia Asuncion are great for the present. High speed - near as I can figure about a half hour faster than what they were 2-years ago.

Que le Vaya Bien

No worries

bajaguy - 2-24-2014 at 12:57 PM

Toll road collapse north of Ensenada is a non-player in regards to time/traffic.

Been over that route several times at different times of day and at most a 15-25 minute add to trip
Quote:
Originally posted by chavycha
I wonder if it might be faster right now to go via Lancaster, Palm Desert, Mexicali and San Felipe, given the traffic in LA/San Diego as well as the toll road collapse near Ensenada. We did this route in January and I was surprised how quick it was.

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 01:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DavidE
The simpler and more direct the route, the less chance there is of missing a turn. I lived in the high Eastern Sierra for several years. I did NOT like WALKER CANYON, CONWAY SUMMIT and from the south junction the June lake loop, over the top of DEADMAN'S PASS until descending the grade toward BISHOP at Tom's Place.

When District 9 plows 395 it is to remove snow and spread cinders. A layer of compacted snow remains. When a long period of blue skies is forecast a motor grader is used to PEEL ICE, after which I used to increase speed to something approaching "normal".

The route is beautiful when there is no snow. November through March usually.

The highways from Vizcaino to Bahia Asuncion are great for the present. High speed - near as I can figure about a half hour faster than what they were 2-years ago.

Que le Vaya Bien
I have had a couple of friends tell me that it was much quicker taking the San Felipe to Gonzaga road and cutting over to Chapala to miss all the traffic between Ensenada and San Quintin.

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 01:47 PM

I've driven from Gonzaga to Chapal a few times - that's a long rugged drive.

Given that the road from San Felipe to Gonzaga is now fully paved, what would you say is the drive time from San Felipe to Asuncion via Gonzaga/Chapala?

Cypress - 2-24-2014 at 01:55 PM

I-5 will beat 395 anytime, just let the hammer down and try not to get run over. Lived alongside 395 for a while. It's scenic. If you're in a hurry, I-5. Better have a rig that can go 75 mph+ or you're gonna be a traffic hazard.:biggrin:

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 02:00 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
I've driven from Gonzaga to Chapal a few times - that's a long rugged drive.

Given that the road from San Felipe to Gonzaga is now fully paved, what would you say is the drive time from San Felipe to Asuncion via Gonzaga/Chapala?
I don't know, but my neighbor left La Paz, driving a Ford van, at 6am and was in SF just after dark. It would be pretty hard to pull that off on Mex 1.

chavycha - 2-24-2014 at 02:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
Been over that route several times at different times of day and at most a 15-25 minute add to trip


Good to know, thanks!

However

bajaguy - 2-24-2014 at 02:12 PM

YMMV........
Quote:
Originally posted by chavycha
Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
Been over that route several times at different times of day and at most a 15-25 minute add to trip


Good to know, thanks!

Skipjack Joe - 2-24-2014 at 03:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by chavycha
I wonder if it might be faster right now to go via Lancaster, Palm Desert, Mexicali and San Felipe, given the traffic in LA/San Diego as well as the toll road collapse near Ensenada. We did this route in January and I was surprised how quick it was.


That would be a mistake.

It would be a mistake north of the border and a mistake south of the border. If timed properly the I5 is the fastest way to the border. You proposed route will also consume time south of the border routing back to hwy 1. That will add more than an hour to your drive. Don't even think about driving down hwy 3 and to Chapalla. Your dentures will fall out trying to do that dirt road in an hour.

DavidE - 2-24-2014 at 03:21 PM

REWARD OFFERED. A Twin Pack of Acetaminophen (Kirkland Signature) 1,000 count, and when you get to B.A. pesos, and a free shrimp dinner and beer. I use six tablets a day and the Alka-Seltzer size Mexican "Tylenol" and choked and gagged me to distraction. The COSTCO pills slide down easy.

You'll find me in the MIRAMAR MARKET in the rear in the housewares section.

monoloco - 2-24-2014 at 03:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DavidE
REWARD OFFERED. A Twin Pack of Acetaminophen (Kirkland Signature) 1,000 count, and when you get to B.A. pesos, and a free shrimp dinner and beer. I use six tablets a day and the Alka-Seltzer size Mexican "Tylenol" and choked and gagged me to distraction. The COSTCO pills slide down easy.

You'll find me in the MIRAMAR MARKET in the rear in the housewares section.
If you have never done so, research acetaminophen side effects, then read up on turmeric extract.
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/04/2...

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 03:39 PM

Given the gigantic rainstorm over the LA area this Friday, should I alter my route?

I don't like the idea of I-5 in heavy rain around populated areas (possible traffic nightmare) or crossing over the Sierras to I-395 (winter snow fall?).

I'm still thinking I'll stay on I-5 until just north of LA, and then focus on cutting over and around to San Ysidro.

bajaguy - 2-24-2014 at 03:58 PM

Not much of alternative. Rain on I-5, possibly snow on 395 and the several passes. Rain is a lot easier to deal with than snow.

Before you go, replace you wiper blades and apply Rain-X to all of your windows:

http://www.rainx.com/product/glass-and-cleaners/rainx-origin...

I would stick with the I-5, then hit the 210 east.....follow the route I sent you in your u2u box
Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
Given the gigantic rainstorm over the LA area this Friday, should I alter my route?

I don't like the idea of I-5 in heavy rain around populated areas (possible traffic nightmare) or crossing over the Sierras to I-395 (winter snow fall?).

I'm still thinking I'll stay on I-5 until just north of LA, and then focus on cutting over and around to San Ysidro.

mtgoat666 - 2-24-2014 at 04:18 PM

stick to I5,
and dont forget to stop at Dewar's in Bakersfield for a box of taffy (peanut butter, of course), and an ice cream at the bar.
never pass B'filed w/o stopping at Dewar's, most important stop in the central valley

ya know, with your speed limited vehicle, you should take the 99 thru central valley,... another route for you to consider,...

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 06:21 PM

I usually do follow the 99 south from Sacramento unless I'm heading for San Diego, so probalby will this time as well. Just need to plot out the details of how I'll get from the 99 to San Ysidro.

vgabndo - 2-24-2014 at 06:44 PM

99 runs into the 5, and the rest is just your choice of all the branches going through la la land. (Bakersdiego) I went I-5 last time, then Tecate, and feel that I wasted a lot of time not just going San Isidro.

See you when you get here.

Hey if you make it before 3:00 Sunday...

vgabndo - 2-24-2014 at 06:50 PM



Don't hurt yourself getting here!

WideAngleWandering - 2-24-2014 at 07:58 PM

That's the kind of motivation I need.

Ok, here's the route plan: Google Map



I don't know how doable this plan is going to be. My ideal (i.e. not yet compared against map for reality check) would be:


Misgivings:


[Edited on 2014-2-25 by WideAngleWandering]

vandenberg - 2-24-2014 at 08:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
That's the kind of motivation I need.

Ok, here's the route plan: Google Map


  • I-5 to Sacramento
  • 99 until it reconnects with the 5
  • I-5 to 210 east
  • 210 to 57 south
  • 57 south to 71 south
  • 71 south to 91 east
  • 91 east to I-15 south
  • Cross in San Ysidro
  • Hwy 1 all the way down





Good plan, except from the 57 plan to I-15.
Stay on I-210 till I-15. You will bypass non freeway local traffic with signals.

Non-event

bajaguy - 2-24-2014 at 09:32 PM

If you take the 210 east to the I-15, you are going WAY east, out of your way to the area east of Alta Loma/Rancho Cucamonga.

The 57 to the 71 transition is now an expressway with only one light (several months ago).......I take this route all the time and it is quicker to the Jct of I-15 and the 91 than taking the 210 to the I-15 and meeting the 91 in Corona.
Quote:
Originally posted by vandenberg
Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
That's the kind of motivation I need.

Ok, here's the route plan: Google Map


  • I-5 to Sacramento
  • 99 until it reconnects with the 5
  • I-5 to 210 east
  • 210 to 57 south
  • 57 south to 71 south
  • 71 south to 91 east
  • 91 east to I-15 south
  • Cross in San Ysidro
  • Hwy 1 all the way down





Good plan, except from the 57 plan to I-15.
Stay on I-210 till I-15. You will bypass non freeway local traffic with signals.

Bob and Susan - 2-25-2014 at 05:42 AM

take the 5 to the 210...

then east to the 15...

then south

never ever take the 91...

your route looks good on paper but it sucks
I lived in southern California for most of my life
the others are just wrong

Skipjack Joe - 2-25-2014 at 06:33 AM

The 210 gets jammed up during rush hour. And I've sat in traffic plenty of times on I15 south of escondido (up to Ted Williams Dr. What a nightmare.)

Timing is everything.

You can get through that 130 miles with little traffic but you have to know what you're doing. I do it twice every year on work days and during daylight hours.

You don't want to hit traffic after driving 8 hours from Sacramento. You'll be cursing for days. But if you do get into that situation. Just calmly pull off the road to a restaurant and enjoy a really slow meal until after 7PM. I usually find one next to the freeway with a window seat and watch the mess from the comfort of my booth. There's no reason to get angry because you ain't going nowhere. Let the others fume at each other on the cement roads. Don't fall into that trap. At times like that you have to be opportunistic and take what's there. In fact, that applies to all of your travels south of the border. Don't expect (plan on) anything and you'll be much happier.

P.S. Take 5 from Sacramento instead of 99. It's easier on the nerves. And faster.

[Edited on 2-25-2014 by Skipjack Joe]

Whale-ista - 2-25-2014 at 07:29 AM

Clearly, a journey of 1000 miles starts with 1 question posted on BajaNomad...

Travel safely and have a wonderful time!

WideAngleWandering - 2-25-2014 at 08:05 AM

What's the most likely outcome for me if I'm on the road from Sac by 5AM? Possible to make it all the way to Ensenada on a Friday?

Can I pick up my FMM in Ensenada on a Saturday? That would skip me having to stop, park, and look for the office in San Ysidro.

Of course it probably also means a late start from Ensenada to Asuncion on Saturday.

Ateo - 2-25-2014 at 08:24 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by WideAngleWandering
What's the most likely outcome for me if I'm on the road from Sac by 5AM? Possible to make it all the way to Ensenada on a Friday?

Can I pick up my FMM in Ensenada on a Saturday? That would skip me having to stop, park, and look for the office in San Ysidro.

Of course it probably also means a late start from Ensenada to Asuncion on Saturday.


Yes, you could make it to Ensenada Friday.

Just stop in San Ysidro for the tourist card. Way easy. 10 minutes and you're done.

Skipjack Joe - 2-25-2014 at 08:31 AM

It's 385 miles from Sac to LA via I 5. You say that you do 55-60 mph. That brings you into LA around noon.

If it were me I would start at 3 or 4 AM just to be safe. Although if everything goes right you should just pass all the mayhem that starts around 2:30. It's 121 miles between LA and SD as I recall.

If you don't make it through it you will have to wait until 7.

We usually drive through the 'gap' until we hit Carlsbad. Even though the traffic is still light we stop there and do all of the shopping at Ralphs. We may go to the beach for a bit. And then we go to a restaurant, usually Tip Tops. By then it's after 7 and we drive the last 45 minutes to the border.

So that's an option you may consider. You really don't have to do the drive nonstop to have it stressless. But you want to be in control of the situation. Plan on the stops rather than be forced to do them. I guess that repudiates what I wrote earlier. So be it.

I-5 x2

dpwahoo - 2-25-2014 at 09:38 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by bajaguy
Next time try the I-15 instead of the 215. You can eliminate the corridor and traffic from north of San Bernardino to Corona.

Also, if he wants to cover ground in the least amount of time, straight down the I-5, then Mex 1. It will take longer to take the 94 then Hwy 3 to Ensenada


Quote:
Originally posted by RnR

I agree. I thoroughly dislike the I-5 corridor.

Hwy 395, to I-15, to I-215, to Tecate.

Whale-ista - 2-25-2014 at 09:41 AM

FYI: re:waiting later to cross, last time I came thru Otay Mesa at 9 pm, on a Tuesday, the SB traffic was very heavy.

Not sure how common this is, or if Friday is better/worse that late at San Ysidro, but I was surprised by the amount of SB traffic at that time of night.

As always: Be prepared for delays and changes in travel plans. Detours from hwy repairs and inspections at Military checkpoints will slow you down after Sto. Thomas.

Bring some good music and enjoy the ride. It's spring and everything is coming alive and turning green and other lovely colors thru the desert.

vandenberg - 2-25-2014 at 09:46 AM

Try to do the leg from Sacramento to Ensenada on a Sunday.
Avoid rush hour traffic altogether.
Have friends who make this drive 4 times a year.

willardguy - 2-25-2014 at 09:48 AM

thank god for these wise old owls that can predict weather, road conditions,accidents and traffic patterns, for any given time!
now ask em where to find the best taco! :lol:

mtgoat666 - 2-25-2014 at 09:58 AM

WAW:
you are way over analyzing the driving! just drive and make decisions on the fly!

David K - 2-25-2014 at 10:03 AM

I think they really want you to get the FMM at the border. Who knows if or when Ensenada's INM office will be open. The border INM is a 24/7 operation (at Tijuana). However, the rest of your worries are best handled the way the goat666 says... just wing it!

WideAngleWandering - 2-25-2014 at 12:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by mtgoat666
WAW:
you are way over analyzing the driving! just drive and make decisions on the fly!


I usually do, and that's why I leave late, linger along the way, and sometimes never arrive.

This time around I have a destination and a schedule and a route-not-before-driven - so I'm gonna ask a lot of questions. That's how I roll.

I'd like to avoid a late night crossing in TJ, and I want to arrive in Asuncion by noon on Sunday. Other than that, highly flexible.

vgabndo - 2-25-2014 at 01:43 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by willardguy
thank god for these wise old owls that can predict weather, road conditions,accidents and traffic patterns, for any given time!
now ask em where to find the best taco! :lol:


Dude! I posted a billboard! :lol::lol::lol:

mtgoat666 - 2-25-2014 at 02:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by willardguy
thank god for these wise old owls that can predict weather, road conditions,accidents and traffic patterns, for any given time!
now ask em where to find the best taco! :lol:


ya know, there is an app for any of that

BajaDanD - 2-25-2014 at 07:55 PM

Just stay on the 5 all the way to San Yesidro/TJ. Trying to bypass LA in the middle of the day wont gain you any time sometimes the best route is the one that is the shortest.
I've driven to Asuncion from LA. many times gone the 210 route to the 15 and even the 57 /71/91 to 15 I would only take that route if the 5 or 405 had a accident reported.
I lived right by the 5 and 210 if you take the 210 between 3:30 and 7:00 you will hit bad traffic. If you take it after 7:00pm the 5 would be quicker BUT WARNING If you drive 55-60 on the 5 after 7:00pm you will be run off the road. Speed limit might say 65 but 80 is the norm. Even on the 91 or the 15.

I now live in Arizona so Mexicali to Gonzaga over to Mex1 is the route I'll take this trip. We leave tomorrow afternoon. :bounce::bounce:

[Edited on 2-26-2014 by BajaDanD]

bent-rim - 2-25-2014 at 09:58 PM

I live in the Bay Area and I take 580 over the Altamont Pass to connect with I-5. I leave at 5:30-6:00am and I'm at the border around 2:00pm. The 405 is having some major work done on it, I would avoid it, plus with the numbered exit signs you'll know how far it is to the border on I-5. From the Bay Area to the border is about the same as Sacto to the border. 99 is a little more scenic than I-5.

BajaLuna - 2-25-2014 at 11:38 PM

just a head's up, when we crossed at Otay on a Saturday the bank was not open, we were issued our Tourist Visas but were told we had to pay at a bank, any bank, sometime before we left Baja to head back to the U.S.

It was no big deal, just something we had to tend to before we left Mexico!

WideAngleWandering - 3-1-2014 at 01:56 AM

Today I found myself driving around LA at 4PM and in a helluva rainstorm. Traffic actually wasn't that bad, and San Ysidro is easily the easiest border crossing I've ever dealt with.

Getting closer ...

David K - 3-1-2014 at 08:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by BajaLuna
just a head's up, when we crossed at Otay on a Saturday the bank was not open, we were issued our Tourist Visas but were told we had to pay at a bank, any bank, sometime before we left Baja to head back to the U.S.

It was no big deal, just something we had to tend to before we left Mexico!


When was this?
The past year+ the INM officials have been able to collect the fee if the bank teller next door was closed... Tijuana and Tecate.

DavidE - 3-1-2014 at 11:09 AM

I love it, get to the transition ramp between the 5 and 405 and hear on your car radio

"KNX has just learned a SigAlert has been posted for....."

I exit the Grapevine for Mojave, then take the 14 to Avenue J to the 240th street east, then a right, follow signs to Phelan then duck over to the 15. This is known by locals as The Sheep Creek Cutoff. 46 miles further than taking the 5 and 405, the same or less time depending on SigAlerts, far fewer cops, less smog, prettier and I don't wish for a taro of Mescal and handful of Valium when I cross the border.

Isn't for everyone, but I freakin H-A-T-E downtown Lozenges.

[Edited on 3-1-2014 by DavidE]

bajaguy - 3-1-2014 at 11:19 AM

The stretch of highway is very dangerous, 2 lanes and crazy drivers. Seen too many fatal vehicle accidents there. Wouldn't do that on a bet

Quote:
Originally posted by DavidE
I love it, get to the transition ramp between the 5 and 405 and hear on your car radio

"KNX has just learned a SigAlert has been posted for....."

I exit the Grapevine for Mojave, then take the 14 to Avenue J to the 240th street east, then a right, follow signs to Phelan then duck over to the 15. This is known by locals as The Sheep Creek Cutoff. 46 miles further than taking the 5 and 405, the same or less time depending on SigAlerts, far fewer cops, less smog, prettier and I don't wish for a taro of Mescal and handful of Valium when I cross the border.

Isn't for everyone, but I freakin H-A-T-E downtown Lozenges.

[Edited on 3-1-2014 by DavidE]

WideAngleWandering - 3-1-2014 at 12:16 PM

Slept in ... and I needed it. Now to see if I can make the 600km from Ensenada to Asuncion in a day. Or maybe I'll head to Ojo de Liebre and spend the night there.

Either way, I won't ahve internet and don't have a phone yet, so I'll be going dark for a couple days.

thanks all

jbcoug - 3-1-2014 at 01:37 PM

You may be off the net, but you're in the right place. Take your time and enjoy! Wish I was there.

BajaRat - 3-1-2014 at 02:27 PM

Bo4fun, did you go ?

BajaLuna - 3-1-2014 at 05:13 PM

DavidK, this was this past Dec. at The Otay border crossing.