California is a state made for road trips, where scenic highways, rugged coastlines, and mountain passes offer some of the best driving experiences in the world. From the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur to the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree, the Golden State has it all. Whether you’re looking for thrilling curves or peaceful coastal routes, here’s a guide to the best places to drive and the most iconic roads in California.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)
Undoubtedly the crown jewel of California driving, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a dream route for travelers seeking stunning ocean views. Running along the coast from Dana Point in Southern California to Leggett in the north, the most famous stretch is between Monterey and San Luis Obispo. This section winds through Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs drop into the Pacific Ocean, and landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls add to the scenery. This road offers countless pull-offs to admire the views, so plan to take your time and stop for photos, beach walks, or a bite to eat in quaint coastal towns like Carmel and San Simeon.
2. Highway 395 (Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway)
For a completely different driving experience, head to the Eastern Sierra along Highway 395. This road runs parallel to the Sierra Nevada mountains, taking you through some of California’s most diverse landscapes. From the desert expanse of Owens Valley to the alpine lakes and forests near Mammoth Lakes, this drive offers an ever-changing backdrop. Key stops along the way include Mono Lake, with its eerie tufa towers, and the historic mining town of Bodie, now a preserved ghost town. If you’re visiting in the fall, the changing colors of the aspen trees add another layer of beauty to this scenic route.
3. Route 66
No list of iconic drives in California is complete without mentioning Route 66, the “Main Street of America.” While the road stretches across multiple states, its Californian section is filled with quirky stops, vintage motels, and retro Americana. The stretch between San Bernardino and Santa Monica is especially noteworthy, where you can visit attractions like the Route 66 Museum in Victorville, the kitschy Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, and end your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, the official terminus of Route 66. Driving this historic road gives you a glimpse of a bygone era and a slower-paced, nostalgic view of California.
4. Highway 49 (Gold Country)
For a drive through history, take Highway 49 through California’s Gold Country. This route follows the path of the 19th-century Gold Rush, weaving through charming towns like Nevada City, Auburn, and Sonora. The rolling hills and scenic rivers, such as the American River, provide a beautiful setting for this journey back in time. Along the way, you can visit old mining camps, restored saloons, and even try your hand at gold panning. The winding roads and historic stops make this a road trip perfect for those interested in California’s early days.
5. Highway 101 (Redwood Highway)
If towering trees and lush forests are more your speed, then Highway 101 through northern California’s Redwood National and State Parks is an unforgettable drive. Known as the Redwood Highway, this route takes you through ancient groves of coast redwoods, some of the tallest trees on Earth. The drive from Crescent City to Leggett is particularly impressive, with stops like the Avenue of the Giants, where you can detour into the heart of the forest to marvel at these giant trees up close. This peaceful, green landscape provides a serene contrast to the typical California coastal scenery.
6. Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2)
For those seeking a challenging drive with breathtaking mountain views, the Angeles Crest Highway is a must. Winding through the San Gabriel Mountains just outside of Los Angeles, this route climbs over 7,000 feet, offering panoramic views, tight curves, and high-altitude beauty. Stop at Mount Wilson for a hike or enjoy the scenic overlooks along the way. Be cautious, as this road is known for its sharp turns and steep drop-offs, making it a favorite for experienced drivers. The Angeles Crest Highway offers a refreshing escape from the urban sprawl of LA, with crisp mountain air and plenty of outdoor adventures.
7. Lake Tahoe to Yosemite (Highway 89 to Highway 120)
If you’re looking for a route that combines the beauty of alpine lakes with iconic national parks, the drive from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite via Highway 89 and Tioga Pass (Highway 120) is spectacular. Starting in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, you’ll wind through forests and meadows before crossing over Tioga Pass, the highest road in California, at nearly 10,000 feet. As you descend into Yosemite Valley, you’ll be greeted by some of the park’s most famous sights, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. This route is only open in the summer and fall due to snow, but it’s well worth planning your trip around it.
8. Joshua Tree to Death Valley
For a taste of California’s unique desert landscapes, the drive from Joshua Tree National Park to Death Valley is a surreal and memorable experience. Start in Joshua Tree, where the distinctive namesake trees and bizarre rock formations create a truly otherworldly setting. Then, take Highway 62 to connect with Highway 190 into Death Valley. This vast desert landscape, known as the hottest place on Earth, offers dramatic scenery with places like Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and the rolling Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. The isolation and quiet beauty of these deserts make this drive a stark contrast to California’s coastal roads.
