Sequoia to Monterey Roadtrip

Question

Hello,

Planning a roadtrip in late May to Yosemite to SEKI then Monterey, maybe stopping at Pennacles. Lodging reservations and tours secured. Question I have is what is the least scary and safest route? I’m not driving but do not like edge-of-cliff drives. Looking at Rt 198 West to CA-25. Is there a better alternative? Not opposed to skipping Pennacles as it will be a quick stop-over anyway. Also, any not-to-miss sites along the route? Thank you for your advice. Marie

Answer

For your late May road trip from Sequoia/Kings Canyon (SEKI) to Monterey, focusing on a route that avoids cliff-edge driving is smart, especially if you prefer a more comfortable drive without narrow or winding roads.

Route Considerations:

The route you mentioned—Rt 198 West to CA-25—is reasonable. Rt 198 is generally a straightforward highway with some curves as you descend the Sierra foothills, but it’s a well-maintained road with guardrails and wide lanes, so it is not considered particularly “scary” for most drivers. CA-25 (the “Pacheco Pass”) is also a typical two-lane highway; it has some curves and elevation changes but is safer and less exposed than smaller mountain roads like those in Big Sur.

Alternative Safer Option:

From Sequoia/Three Rivers, take Rt 198 West to Visalia, then CA-99 North to Fresno, and merge onto CA-152 West (Pacheco Pass) toward Monterey. This avoids the narrow sections of Rt 25 entirely and stays on major highways for most of the drive.
CA-152 is wider, better maintained, and has fewer cliffside drop-offs, making it a less stressful drive compared to CA-25.

Pinnacles National Park Stop:

Pinnacles is a slight detour south from CA-152, requiring CA-146. The roads here are narrower and have some curves, but it is manageable. If time is tight or road comfort is a priority, skipping Pinnacles is perfectly reasonable, especially as you are doing a quick stopover.

Not-to-Miss Sites Along the Route:

Sequoia National Park: Giant Forest, General Sherman Tree, Moro Rock viewpoint (if not already explored).
California Valley Foothills along Rt 198: scenic views of rolling hills and oak woodlands.
CA-152: San Luis Reservoir is a nice scenic stop before descending toward Monterey.
Monterey: Cannery Row, 17-Mile Drive (if comfortable with coastal roads), Monterey Bay Aquarium.

In summary, if you want the least stressful drive, sticking to Rt 198 to Visalia and then CA-99 North to CA-152 West toward Monterey is probably your best choice. You can still enjoy a detour to Pinnacles if you feel comfortable, but it is optional. The route balances scenic views with safer, wider roads for a comfortable journey.

Sequoia to Monterey Roadtrip

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