Suggested Route

One of the most common and scenic routes from Sacramento to Mendocino is via Highway 128 and Highway 1. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

  1. Start in Sacramento, CA (Zip Code: 95864):
    • Head west on I-80 W toward San Francisco.
  2. Transition to CA-128:
    • Take I-505 N (near Vacaville) to connect to CA-128 W near Winters, CA.
    • Alternatively, continue on I-80 W to CA-12 W, then join CA-128 W in Napa Valley.
  3. Follow CA-128 W:
    • Drive through Napa Valley (consider a stop in St. Helena for wineries like Beringer Vineyards).
    • Continue through Boonville and the Anderson Valley wine region.
    • CA-128 W merges with CA-1 N (Pacific Coast Highway) near the Navarro River.
  4. Continue on CA-1 N:
    • Drive north along the coast through Albion and Little River.
    • Arrive in Mendocino, CA, approximately 8 miles north of the CA-128/CA-1 intersection.

Alternative Route

  • Via US-101 and CA-20:
    • From Sacramento, take I-5 N to Williams, then CA-20 W to US-101 N.
    • At Willits, take CA-20 W to CA-1 S near Fort Bragg, then head south to Mendocino.
    • Distance: Approximately 190–200 miles.
    • Time: About 3 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours without stops.
    • This route is slightly shorter but less scenic than the CA-128 route.

Points of Interest Along the Way

  • Napa Valley (St. Helena): Stop at Beringer Vineyards or Castello di Amorosa for wine tasting.
  • Clearlake, CA: Roughly halfway (95 miles from both cities), good for a rest stop.
  • Boonville/Philo: Explore Anderson Valley wineries like Navarro or Husch.
  • Jackson State Forest: Offers hiking opportunities near Mendocino.

Notes

  • Road Conditions: CA-128 and CA-1 include winding roads, especially near the coast, which may slow travel. Check weather and road conditions, especially in winter.
  • Fuel Costs: Estimated at $30–$50 one-way, depending on gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
  • Halfway Point: Clearlake, CA, is approximately 95–100 miles from both Sacramento and Mendocino.
  • Map Visualization: To create a map, enter “Sacramento, CA” to “Mendocino, CA” in Google Maps or a similar platform. Select the CA-128 route for scenic views or CA-20 for a slightly faster trip.