I too am kind of partial to the Bishop...Mono county area. I consider that Big Sky country and nothing is better in my opinion within driving distance.
Santa Barbara does sound nice also, have never been down there. What is that from Sac area...bout a 5..6 hour drive? Might be to far for me.
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"You really love animals don't you Ace?"......"If it gets cold enough." -- Ace Ventura, Pet Detective