California is home to some of the most scenic road trips in the world. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the winding mountain roads of Lake Tahoe, there are plenty of well-known routes to explore. But if you’re looking to get off the beaten path, California has hidden road trips that are well worth discovering. Here are some of the best-hidden road trips to explore in California.
1. Highway 395
Highway 395 runs along the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, connecting the Mojave Desert to the north with the Eastern Sierra to the south. The drive offers incredible views of the mountains, including Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Along the way, there are numerous charming towns to explore, including Mammoth Lakes and Bishop. You can also visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home to some of the oldest trees on the planet.
2. Lost Coast
The Lost Coast is a remote and rugged stretch of coastline in Northern California that’s only accessible by foot or four-wheel drive vehicle. The drive is not for the faint of heart, as the road is unpaved and winds through steep hills and sharp curves. However, the payoff is worth it – the scenery is breathtaking, with jagged cliffs dropping into the ocean and secluded beaches that are perfect for a picnic or a swim.
3. Alpine Loop
The Alpine Loop is a 65-mile drive that runs through the heart of the San Juan Mountains in Southern California. The route takes you through old mining towns and over high mountain passes, with stunning views of aspen groves and wildflower meadows. The highlight of the drive is the Engineer Pass, which reaches an elevation of over 12,800 feet and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
4. Avenue of the Giants
The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile scenic drive that winds through a forest of towering redwoods in Northern California. The trees here are some of the tallest on earth, reaching heights of over 300 feet. Along the route, you can stop at numerous turnouts and hiking trails to explore the forest up close. Be sure to visit the Founders Grove, home to the famous Dyerville Giant, a 370-foot redwood that fell in 1991.
5. Sonoma Coast
The Sonoma Coast is a 55-mile drive that runs along the rugged shoreline of Sonoma County, just north of San Francisco. The route takes you through charming coastal towns like Bodega Bay and Jenner, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and beachcombing along the way. The Bodega Head Trail offers stunning views of the cliffs and crashing waves, while the Salt Point State Park is home to fascinating rock formations and tide pools teeming with marine life.
In conclusion, California has plenty of hidden road trips waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for stunning mountain views, remote beaches, or towering redwoods, there’s a road trip for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore some of the best hidden treasures that California has to offer.
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