1

Welcome to Thorn Tree.

Check to be sure that it is open and that no bad weather is imminent and take US-395. From Las Vegas, you cross Death Valley to reach US-395. You won't be sorry you did.

2

How long do you have to do this trip?

3

I had no idea what the Vets Memorial Highway is. It's US 95 through Nevada.

US 395 has the scenery.

4

395 is far more scenic than 95. It's also snowier -- the highest point on the route, Conway Summit, is at 8,138', and since 95 is further into the desert it gets less precipitation in general. Tire chains requirements are imposed not infrequently in winter on 395, and it can sometimes close for short periods during storms. Check highway conditions before setting out, and drive 395 if the road is clear, 95 otherwise.

5

Through Death Valley is the most scenic for sure. Alternatively, you could take I-15 a ways east to U.S. 93; U.S. 93 north to NV Hwy 375 (a/k/a "The Extraterrestrial Highway," its official name); NV Hwy 375 past Area 51 (you'll never actually see it, but you'll get within about 15 miles) to U.S. 6; U.S. 6 west to Bishop, where you join U.S. 395; north on U.S. 395 toward Tahoe.

Be sure you fill the gas tank before doing this trip, because you'll go more than 150 miles before finding a station. It's stark, remote, and beautiful out by Area 51, a/k/a Groom Lake AFB. The kids might like the whole spooky mystery deal with Area 51, even though they'll never see it from the road. If you do a Google search for "Groom Lake, NV," then go into satellite view and zoom into the air force base, you'll see that someone has a sense of humor. There's a dot labeled "UFO @ Area 51 under tarp."