how long does it take to get thru the grapevine in california? and how scary is it?

Answer 1

The Grapevine (I-5) takes approx 30-45 minutes. On a day with good weather, the Grapevine is not difficult. But on a day like this morning (ice, snow) it may get difficult. It is more difficult going southbound (you have to go up a long, steep grade).

Answer 2

The section of I-5 that most people refer to as "the Grapevine" is Southern California's version of mountain driving although it is only 4100 feet at its highest elevation. Otherwise it is just like any other 3-4 lane, 65 MPH Interstate highway. Its surface is concrete so some portions of it can be somewhat bumpy. As others have said, it takes about 45 minutes to cross driving at the speed limit, and the only gas available on this section is in the "town" of Gorman about 2/3 of the way over if traveling northbound. Find your self a copy of the oldies song "Hot Rod Lincoln" by Chuck Berry (it's about driving over the Grapevine) and enjoy your trip.
PS: Once you cross you are now headed toward Bakersfield, that is the scary part.

Answer 3

The grapevine is only scary in the fast lane where you are surrounded by people who don't know how to drive.
Stay in one of middle lanes and don't go over 10 miles over the speed limit, and you'll be fine.
The grapevine takes about 45 minutes to get through - when traffic is good. In the summer and fall, fires started by the Santa Anna winds can stall traffic for hours. In the winter, snow can be an issue - but its rare.
Just be sure to have your air conditioning turned off when you are going up-hill so you don't overheat your car. :)

Answer 4

It's a steep climb then you go down at a bit of a grade. It's not scary though...unless your in a semi-truck and the brakes just went out.

Answer 5

Its just a freeway going through somewhat of a canyon, its nothing, a freeway. Its not scary at all.