I lived in Chico and Redding for 30-something years....hwy 36 to the coast and 299 back was our favorite ride after they finally got the western half of 36 in shape. It used to be crap around Bridgeville....but is one of the greats now.
I ride it every year on my way to WSBK in July - I got to Redding and pick up my riding buddy and head over.
Make that ride include a lunch date at the Samoa Cookhouse....and I'd consider riding out from Denver.
I am riding to Vegas the weekend of the 12th to meet some buddies for our Fall trip - this one will be in and around Lake Isabella, Kern River....SLO and the coast via 58, and some San Diego Mtns.