Auburn to Ferndale Road Trip: Historic Highway 20 Guide

Highway 20, completed in 1911, was the first paved transcontinental highway in California. Its segment from Auburn through the Coast Range to Ferndale offers a journey through oak woodlands, volcanic peaks, and Redwood groves. The drive covers 274 miles and typically takes 5.5 hours without stops.

This route bypasses major interstates, favoring two-lane roads like CA-20 and CA-1. You'll cross the Sacramento Valley, ascend into the Mendocino National Forest, and descend to the Lost Coast. The isolated Ferndale Main Street is a National Historic Landmark.

From Auburn (800 ft elevation), climb to 4,000 ft near Snow Mountain. The Sierra Nevada foothills give way to volcanic soils of the Clear Lake basin. Clear Lake, at 1,320 ft, is the oldest lake in North America (2.5 million years old). Its shores host pear orchards and wineries.

Mendocino National Forest (entrance near Lake Pillsbury) offers dense Douglas fir and black oak. Unpaved Forest Service roads lead to hidden waterfalls like Falls of the Eel River. In Ferndale, the Eel River delta supports dairy farms producing award-winning cheeses.

Local commerce includes artisan olive oil mills in Williams and vintage stores in Willits. Ferndale's Main Street features historic saloons and galleries. Don't miss the Ferndale Meat Company for locally sourced steaks.

For tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, consider using local farmer's markets as navigation anchors.

Fuel availability is sparse between Williams and Willits. Fill up in Auburn (multiple stations) and again in Williams (Chevron, Shell). After Clear Lake, next reliable fuel is in Willits (Arco, 76). Consider carrying extra fuel for the remote stretch between Lake Pillsbury and Ferndale.

Restrooms are available at rest areas near Colusa (mile 45) and at Clear Lake State Park. Several roadside cafes in Williams and Lakeport offer clean facilities. Plan bathroom breaks accordingly.

• Best stops: Auburn CA to Ferndale CA include Clear Lake, the Mendocino National Forest overlook, and the Avenue of the Giants detour.
• How long to drive Auburn CA to Ferndale CA? Minimum 5.5 hours; budget 8-10 hours with exploration.
• Is it worth driving Auburn CA to Ferndale CA? Yes, for the diverse biomes and small-town culture.
• Things to do between Auburn CA and Ferndale CA: wine tasting in Lake County, hiking at Mount Konocti, and Victorian architecture in Ferndale.

Highway 20 is winding with narrow shoulders east of Clear Lake. Watch for wildlife, especially deer at dawn and dusk. Cell service drops frequently between Willits and Ferndale. Download offline maps.

Family-friendly stops: Cache Creek Casino (Williams) has a kids' arcade; Clear Lake State Park offers swimming and kayaking. In Willits, the Skunk Train depot provides train rides. For pet-friendly stops, Lake Pillsbury allows dogs on leash and has designated swim areas.

Fatigue management: Use the rest areas at Colusa (milepost 45) and at the top of Berryessa Summit (milepost 70). The 20-minute trail to Mayacamas Falls near Middletown provides a leg-stretcher. Avoid driving the last 30 miles into Ferndale at night due to fog.

• Infrastructure safety: Roads are well-maintained but lack guardrails in remote sections. Carry emergency supplies.
• Hidden off-route spots: Indian Valley Reservoir (14 miles north of Williams) offers pristine camping. The Potter Valley backroad leads to ancient redwoods.
• Climatic conditions: Summer temps exceed 100°F in the valley; fog dominates the coast. Fall colors peak in November.
• Culinary infrastructure: Try blackberry pie at the Clear Lake Bistro and fish tacos at Ferndale's Pizza & Grill.