Is there a train to Oxnard?

No direct train service exists from Mammoth Lakes to Oxnard.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.

There are no toll roads on the primary US-395 to CA-126 route.

You can fly from Mammoth Yosemite Airport to LAX, then drive to Oxnard.

Yes, it is a well-maintained highway, but watch for high winds in the Mojave Desert.

Mammoth Lakes

Oxnard

Driving

Mammoth Lakes to Oxnard

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Mammoth Lakes to Oxnard covers approximately 450 kilometers through the Eastern Sierra and across the Transverse Ranges. You will primarily utilize US-395 South before transitioning to CA-14 and I-5 to bypass the Los Angeles basin. The drive typically takes 5 hours depending on traffic near the Santa Clarita area. This route offers a dramatic transition from high-altitude alpine terrain to the Pacific coastline. Expect significant elevation changes as you descend from the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Total Distance: 450 km driving distance; 320 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via US-395 and CA-126 is the fastest, taking roughly 5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this route.

Compare Mammoth Lakes to Oxnard Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

5 hours 15 mins

Avg Price

$60-$90 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

US-395 S to CA-14 S to I-5 S to CA-126 W.

Check for snow chain requirements on US-395 during winter months.

Travel Tips

Fuel Up
Fill your tank in Bishop or Mojave as gas prices are significantly higher in Mammoth Lakes.
Traffic Avoidance
Try to pass through Santa Clarita before 3 PM to avoid heavy weekday commuter traffic.
Hydration
The high altitude in Mammoth causes rapid dehydration; drink plenty of water before departing.
Road Conditions
Check Caltrans QuickMap for real-time updates on US-395 closures due to weather.
Snack Stops
Stop in Lone Pine for a quick meal; it is the halfway point with several local diners.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Use low gears when descending steep grades to prevent brake overheating.
Wildlife
Be alert for deer crossing US-395, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic emergency kit including water, blankets, and a flashlight in your vehicle.
Cell Service
Expect dead zones between Mammoth and Ridgecrest; download offline maps before leaving.