Hey everyone! Are you excited to go on an amazing trip through California and its beautiful landscapes? Get ready to drive through 10 stunning routes that will leave you speechless.
From the rocky shores of Highway 1 to the tall mountains of the Sierra Nevada, each drive offers incredible views and memories you’ll never forget. So, grab your camera, open the windows, and let’s start our adventure on the road!
California has lots of different kinds of landscapes, like rocky beaches, tall mountains, green forests, and wide deserts. One really good way to see how beautiful California is, is to take a road trip.
There are so many pretty roads to drive on, showing off all the different parts of the state. Explore 10 stunning California drives showcasing diverse wildlife and breathtaking views across the state’s magnificent landscapes.
Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
California’s Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, hugs the stunning coastline, boasting iconic views that captivate travelers’ hearts. This scenic route is part of the larger Pacific Coast Highway, which spans 1,675 miles from Olympia, WA to San Diego, CA.
From the towering cliffs of Big Sur to the quaint coastal towns of Malibu and Santa Barbara, this scenic drive is a must-see for any road trip enthusiast. Be sure to stop at landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls for picture-perfect moments.
Tioga Pass Road
For a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Tioga Pass Road is the ultimate route. The Tioga Road, which is 64 miles long and also known as California State Route 120, travels through the pass, linking Big Oak Flat with Lee Vining.
Drive through the Sierras connects eastern and western slopes, revealing stunning alpine meadows, lakes, and rugged peaks in high altitude. Explore Yosemite National Park, marvel at Half Dome, Tuolumne Meadows, and other iconic sights. Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity!
Death Valley Scenic Byway Drive
Explore deep into the Mojave Desert on the Death Valley Scenic Byway Drive. You’ll see strange landscapes and face extreme weather that make it feel like you’re in another world. The Death Valley Scenic Byway is an 81.5-mile road that goes through Death Valley National Park on interstate 190.
Moreover, it’s a captivating trip through one of the most special and amazing places on the planet. Along the way, don’t miss the chance to visit landmarks like Zabriskie Point and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes for unforgettable photo opportunities, showcasing the stark beauty of one of the hottest places on Earth.
Avenue of the Giants
Discover giants on the Avenue of the Giants, winding through Northern California’s ancient redwood forests for a breathtaking scenic drive. The drive is approximately 31 miles long, with towering redwoods lining the route.
Creating a mesmerizing canopy overhead and an otherworldly atmosphere below. Stop at Founders Grove and Humboldt Redwoods State Park to marvel at majestic trees and learn their fascinating history en route.
Sonoma Valley Wine Country
Treat yourself to a beautiful drive through Sonoma Valley Wine Country, where you’ll see lovely vineyards and cute wineries everywhere you look. Try some really good wines, enjoy delicious food, and take in the amazing views of the valley’s perfect scenery.
Make sure you visit nice towns like Healdsburg and Sonoma, where you can find cute shops and art galleries that show off the local way of life.
Avenue of the Stars
Take an exciting trip through the coolest city in the world on Avenue of the Stars, a drive that shows you all the fancy and fun parts of Los Angeles. Cruise along Sunset Boulevard and Rodeo Drive.
Where you’ll spot famous spots like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, making your road trip extra special. Discover Beverly Hills and Hollywood, where famous faces and exciting events await, ensuring you don’t miss out on the action!
Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive
Enjoy the stunning beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains with a scenic drive around Lake Tahoe, one of North America’s largest and deepest alpine lakes. The Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive runs for a total of 72 miles (116 kilometers), offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Enjoy stunning mountain and forest views on this scenic drive. Visit lookout spots like Emerald Bay for outdoor fun!
Route 66
Take a trip down memory lane on Route 66, a famous highway that goes through eight states and covers over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. In California, this special road goes through cute towns like Barstow, Needles, and Santa Monica.
You’ll find old-fashioned diners, classic motels, and fun roadside attractions that remind you of the good old days of road trips. Don’t forget to visit cool spots like the Wigwam Motel and Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch for a dose of nostalgia.
Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway
Find the wild beauty of the Eastern Sierra mountains on a scenic drive along Highway 395. You’ll see sharp mountain peaks, pretty lakes, and amazing desert views. From big granite cliffs in the Alabama Hills to old forests in the White Mountains, this drive shows off lots of cool natural stuff.
Make sure to check out Mono Lake and Bodie State Historic Park to learn about California’s old mining days and pioneers.
Big Bear Lake Scenic Byway
Take a trip to the mountains with a scenic drive around Big Bear Lake. It’s a beautiful spot in the San Bernardino National Forest.
You’ll see big pine trees and tall mountains all around the lake. There are lots of fun things to do like hiking, fishing, and skiing. Don’t forget to visit cute towns like Big Bear Lake Village and Fawnskin, where you’ll find cozy cabins and nice shops.
Final Thoughts
Travel from the rough shores of Big Sur to the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada on California’s scenic drives. You’ll see some of the most amazing views in the world.
Whether you’re walking through old redwood forests, driving along historic Route 66, or enjoying Sonoma Valley Wine Country, each drive has its own mix of beautiful nature, history, and outdoor fun. So get your stuff, get in the car, and go on a trip you’ll never forget through California’s best scenic roads.
FAQs
What are some of the notable scenic drives in California?
Some of the notable scenic drives in California include the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), Tioga Pass Road, Death Valley Scenic Byway Drive, Avenue of the Giants, Sonoma Valley Wine Country, Avenue of the Stars, Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive, Route 66, Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway, and Big Bear Lake Scenic Byway.
What makes these scenic drives special?
California’s scenic drives offer diverse landscapes and experiences, from stunning coastal views to majestic mountains. Whether exploring redwood forests or historic towns, each route promises unforgettable memories.
How long are these scenic drives?
The lengths of these scenic drives vary. For example, the Pacific Coast Highway spans 1,675 miles from Olympia, WA to San Diego, CA, while the Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive runs for 72 miles around Lake Tahoe. Other drives, like Tioga Pass Road, Death Valley Scenic Byway Drive, and Route 66, cover shorter distances but offer equally captivating experiences.
What landmarks or attractions can I expect to see along these drives?
Along these scenic drives, you’ll encounter a variety of landmarks and attractions. For instance, on the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll come across iconic spots like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
In Yosemite National Park, Tioga Pass Road offers views of Half Dome and Tuolumne Meadows. Meanwhile, the Death Valley Scenic Byway Drive features landmarks such as Zabriskie Point and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.
