How to drive from the Bay Area to Herlong Ca without going thru the mountains?

I want to plana drive to the Herlong Federal prison from the bay area. I do not like driving thru mountains, and want to limit it as much as possible. I understand the straightest route is highway 80 to US-395 towards Susanville (4.5hrs). That way is like going to Reno, and I knmow the mountains going thru Reno, but I really don't like them anymore. Google maps also shows 2 other options 1. is to take I-80 to highway -20 which goes to Yuba City, then gets back on I-80 asnd you still go thru the same mountains for Truckee and Reno. The last way is I-80 to 20, and staying on 20 all the way. This way bypes Reno and Truckee. It takes about 45 minutes more. This appears to be the only alternative to the mountains on the way thru Truckee.Does anyone know if there's other mountains on this route? If I casn avoid them saltogeth, I dont mind driving longer. But, I am familiar with the route to reno, so I don't know if it's best to go the way I know. Any and all suggestions will help. And is there any lodging in Herlong near the prison. My family goes, and they stay in Reno. I don't wanna stray in a hotel thats still 30 miles away from my destination. Thank You