When are the worst times to drive the 17 (between San Jose and Santa Cruz)?

Question

For a week in mid-August, I'm planning to commute from Mountain View to Santa Cruz. I hear the 17 can be nasty-busy, though.

Are there known times where I can expect gridlock?

Is there a good site I should use to monitor or predict traffic?

Thanks as always!

Answer 1

If you're doing the reverse commute (from Mtn View to SC) I think traffic is much lighter.

I used to go from SC to Mtn. View, and between 8 and 9 in the morning it's usually slow, especially when you're coming down the east side into Los Gatos by the reservoir. Coming home it's usually more crowded between 5 and 6:30 or 7. If you drive in the morning after 10 it's usually very quick.

I use 511.org for traffic info. It's not always up to date, but it's OK. You can also call 511 on your cell phone to get info. Also AM 680 (I think that's right) has traffic updates every 10 minutes and they almost always mention 17.

Answer 2

It's been awhile since I've been there, but I believe the worst times are the weekends (we were just up there Memoral Day and my gosh, it was horrible!!!) and, of course, the usual 4 to 6 pm.

Try this weblink to Caltrans...
http://www.dot.ca.gov/travel/dist_04/

Good luck on your drive and drive carefully! Enjoy the view while you're out there! What a wonderful time of year to be able to work in the Santa Cruz area!!!!

Answer 3

I know several folks that make that commute daily. Carpool is the best option. Otherwise, expect horrible traffic 7-9am and 4:30-6:30pm, yucky!!! try 511.org for traffic.