California is a magnificent state in the United States. It is also a wonderland of scenic beauty, natural wonders, and fascinating adventures. For those who like to travel by car and explore the state’s many hidden gems, there are ten road trips that are not to be missed. From sea-kissed shorelines to breathtaking mountains views, the Golden State has something for everyone. So, buckle up, let’s go on an epic adventure of 10 must-do road trips to take in California.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – San Francisco to San Diego
One of the most famous road trips in California is the Pacific Coast Highway. This 600-mile journey offers stunning views of California’s coastline, incredible beaches, whimsical towns and an array of wildlife from sea otters to whales and dolphins. Starting from San Francisco and ending at San Diego, this road trip can be completed in a day or two or extended to a few days to explore all the attractions along the way.
2. California Highway 1 – Mendocino to Leggett
The wild and rugged northern coastline of California is a sight to behold, and the drive between Mendocino and Leggett on California Highway 1 is nothing short of spectacular. The Route features a winding and narrow road that meanders through redwood forests, rugged coastline, and quaint towns.
3. Big Sur – Carmel to San Simeon
These 100 miles between Carmel and San Simeon follow the rugged coastline of Big Sur, one of the most awe-inspiring road trips in the world. You’ll drive along mountains, cliffs, and sandy beaches while enjoying a superb view of the Pacific Ocean.
4. Napa Valley – San Francisco to Calistoga
For wine lovers, the Napa Valley region is a destination worth visiting. This road trip between San Francisco and Calistoga is perfect for those who want to explore the vineyards of famous wineries like Robert Mondavi, Chateau Montelena, and Inglenook.
5. Death Valley – Las Vegas to Mojave
The drive from Las Vegas to Mojave through Death Valley National Park is one of the most scenic and breathtaking routes you can take in California. The route boasts of miles of sand dunes, mud flats, mountains, and the lowest point in North America – Badwater Basin.
6. Joshua Tree National Park – Palm Springs to Joshua Tree
One of the most picturesque road trips in California to experience the vast desert landscapes, Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its blazing sunsets and hiking trails stretched over the San Bernardino County and Riverside County.
7. Yosemite National Park – San Francisco to Yosemite
Yosemite National Park one of the most famed natural parklands in the United States. This road trip offers breathtaking scenery along with the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and rock climbing.
8. Mammoth Lakes – Bishop to Mammoth Lakes
This road trip in the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains offers an astounding breath-taking view of the mountain range’s gorgeous alpine lakes, redwoods-covered valleys, and snow-capped mountains.
9. Tahoe Rim – Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe isn’t just for the winter ski crowd. The Tahoe Rim Drive is a 72-mile road trip that’s filled with stunning panoramic views of the lake, green forests, and mountainside scenery.
10. Route 66 – Santa Monica to Barstow
The iconic Route 66 is a famous road trip that stretches from Santa Monica to Barstow and promises the quintessential American road trip experience with roadhouses, motels, and classic diners.
These ten road trips offer a beautiful montage of California, where any given landscape is possible – from mountains and desert to oceans and lakes. With so much natural beauty, California is a travel enthusiast’s playground, and these road trips are just a fortunate bonus in discovering America’s most iconic state.
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