Redlands to Reno: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The drive from Redlands, CA to Reno, NV covers roughly 490 miles along US-395, a corridor that transforms from citrus groves to high desert, then climbs into the Sierra Nevada. This route passes through the historic town of Lone Pine, where many Western films were shot against the iconic Mount Whitney backdrop.

Along the way, you'll traverse the Owens Valley, a region that once sparked water wars between Los Angeles and local farmers—a story still visible in the dry Owens Lake.

Road conditions can vary with snow in winter; check Caltrans for pass updates. Always carry chains from November to April. The route has few long stretches without services, so plan rest stops every 2-3 hours. For family-friendly breaks, consider the Mammoth Scenic Loop with its volcanic features, or the Reno-Sparks Convention Center's annual Hot August Nights car show.

Pet-friendly stops are plentiful on BLM lands, but keep dogs on a leash due to wildlife. For fatigue management, use the well-marked rest areas near Lone Pine and Walker, which offer picnic tables and bathrooms.

Hidden gems: Drive to the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park (a short detour from Bridgeport) for a glimpse of a preserved gold-mining town.

US-395 is a well-maintained highway, but it's mostly two lanes with passing opportunities. The speed limit ranges from 55 to 65 mph, so plan for 8-9 hours of driving time, excluding stops. The route offers numerous fuel stops in towns like Bishop, Lone Pine, and Bridgeport.

• Fuel prices in remote areas can be 10-15% higher than in cities, so fill up in Redlands or Reno.
• Cell service is spotty along the eastern Sierra; download offline maps.
• The route passes through the Owens Valley, which is a high desert plateau at 4,000 feet elevation, so prepare for rapid weather changes.

The Owens Valley is framed by the Sierra Nevada to the west and the White Mountains to the east, offering some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in California. Stop at the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to discover unexpected views. Notable landmarks include Mono Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate known for its tufa towers, and the ancient bristlecone pines in the White Mountains.

Local commerce thrives in towns like Mammoth Lakes, a ski resort year-round, and Bridgeport, which hosts a lively county fair each August. The area's culinary scene ranges from classic diners to upscale farm-to-table restaurants, especially in Reno's Midtown district.

Cultural touches: Visit the Eastern California Museum in Independence to see Paiute and Shoshone artifacts, or the Reno Riverwalk for art galleries and riverside trails.