California’s diverse landscapes offer a variety of scenic drives that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own car. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the ancient redwoods of the Avenue of the Giants, there are plenty of breathtaking routes to explore in the Golden State. Whether you prefer mountain views, coastal drives, or city skylines, California has it all. Check out our list of favorite scenic drives in California:
1. Pacific Coast Highway: Follow the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean from San Diego to Crescent City, with highlights like Big Sur and Monterey along the way.
2. Highway 395: Drive through the Sierra Nevada mountain range for colorful mountains and alpine lakes, with stops at Mono Lake and Mammoth Lakes.
3. Avenue of the Giants: Take a magical drive through a majestic grove of ancient redwoods in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
4. Lost Coast Scenic Drive: Explore California’s only coastal wilderness on a narrow and windy road through Northern California, with stops at Victorian Ferndale and Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
5. Napa Valley Silverado Trail: Wind through vine-covered landscapes and rolling hills on a 29-mile country road from Calistoga to Napa.
6. Mulholland Drive: Enjoy city sightseeing with stunning views of Los Angeles Basin, San Fernando Valley, downtown Los Angeles, and the Hollywood Sign.
7. Lake Tahoe Loop: Surround yourself with ancient pine trees and clear blue lakes on a 145-mile loop around Lake Tahoe.
8. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway: Experience a landscape shaped by volcanic eruptions, with views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and lush forests.
9. Death Valley Scenic Byway (Route 190): Drive through Death Valley’s multicolored mountains and desert landscapes for a unique and picturesque experience.
10. Route 66: Explore California’s diverse landscapes from the Mojave Desert to Santa Monica’s beaches, passing through mountains, valleys, and cultural landmarks along the way.
No matter where you choose to drive in California, you’re sure to find beauty in the state’s diverse landscapes. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for scenic highways marked by the state flower, the California poppy.
The Iconic Route 66 in the Mojave Desert
One of the most iconic stretches of historic Route 66 can be found in the Mojave Desert, located about an hour north of Joshua Tree National Park. This famous highway holds a special place in American culture and history, attracting visitors from all over the world.
