Redlands to Quincy: A Deep Dive into California Highway 99 and Beyond

This road trip spans nearly 500 miles, from the inland citrus heart of Redlands (elevation 1,350 ft) to the Sierra Nevada gateway of Quincy (elevation 3,459 ft). The route uses I-10 west, I-5 north, then spurs onto US-395 and CA-70, crossing five distinct climate zones.

A little-known fact: the GPS-optimized path passes through the town of Gorman, where the Tejon Pass wind turbines are visible for 20 miles in clear weather. This precise location (34.7961° N, 118.8645° W) marks the transition from Southern California grasslands to the Mojave Desert.

Quick Stats and Data

The drive from Redlands to Quincy demands strategic planning due to sparse services once you leave the Interstate. Fuel stops are critical: the longest stretch without a gas station is between Mojave and Inyokern on US-395, approximately 55 miles.

Here is a breakdown of the route by segment:

• Redlands to Bakersfield (I-10 W, I-5 N): 190 miles, 3 hours, major services every 20 miles
• Bakersfield to Mojave (CA-58 E): 60 miles, 1 hour, limited services
• Mojave to Bishop (US-395 N): 160 miles, 2.5 hours, fuel in Inyokern, Ridgecrest, Olancha, Lone Pine, Independence, Big Pine
• Bishop to Quincy (US-395 N, CA-70 W): 90 miles, 2 hours, fuel in Lee Vining and Bridgeport

To answer the question how long to drive Redlands, CA to Quincy, CA: the pure driving time is approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes, but with stops for fuel, meals, and sightseeing, plan for 10–12 hours. Many travelers break it into two days.

Tolls: None on this route. However, the I-5 express lanes near Los Angeles are optional and require a FasTrak transponder. The most expensive fill-up is typically in Lee Vining, where premium gas can reach $6.50/gal.

Cell service is patchy between Mojave and Bishop; download offline maps. The road quality on US-395 is generally good, but CA-70 between Beckwourth and Quincy has narrow shoulders. Winter chains are required between November and April over Donner Summit.

Family suitability: Kid-friendly stops include the California Science Center (near LA, but off-route) and the Eastern California Museum in Independence (free). The drive is long for young children; carry plenty of snacks and audiobooks.

For those traveling with pets, pet-friendly motels like the Best Western Plus Desert Springs Inn in Ridgecrest welcome dogs ($20 fee). Rest stops with dog areas exist at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve and the Toms Place campground. Always carry water for your pet, especially in the desert.

Fatigue management: The most tiring section is the Grapevine Grade (I-5) due to steep descents and heavy truck traffic. Plan a 15-minute stop at the Tejon Ranch Outlets (restrooms, food court). Use the rest areas near Olancha (mile 117 on US-395) and Coleville (mile 298) for quick naps.

Finding the best stops between Redlands, CA and Quincy, CA requires local knowledge. Use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities for a curated approach. For example, the Manzanar National Historic Site (mile 100 on US-395) is a deeply moving WWII Japanese American incarceration camp—allow one hour.

Hidden off-route spot: Fish Slough (near Bishop) – a desert wetland with ancient petroglyphs. Access via dirt road, high clearance recommended. Local tip: ask at the Bishop Visitor Center for current conditions.

This journey traverses the Mojave Desert, the Eastern Sierra, and the northern Sierra Nevada. The transition from barren salt flats to alpine forests at Donner Pass is one of California's most dramatic scenic shifts. Key natural landmarks:

• Alabama Hills (Lone Pine): Ancient granite formations used in hundreds of Western films. Free access, 2-hour hike recommended.
• Mono Lake (Lee Vining): Saline soda lake with tufa towers. Visitor center open 9am–5pm. Fee $3 per vehicle.
• Plumas-Eureka State Park (near Quincy): Gold rush history and alpine meadows. Day use $10.

Local commerce reflects each region's economy. In Bishop, the Main Street is lined with Basque restaurants like the Erick Schat's Bakkerÿ (sourdough bread, open 6am–6pm). In Quincy, the Plumas County Museum offers gold nugget exhibits, and the local farmers market (Sundays, 8am–noon) sells mountain berries and honey.

For those wondering is it worth driving Redlands, CA to Quincy, CA, the answer is yes—especially for scenery buffs. The contrast between Redlands' orange groves and Quincy's pine forests is stark. However, if you dislike long desert stretches, consider flying to Reno and driving south.