California Road Trips

Driving in California, especially along Ventura County Coast, is a picturesque experience. The open road, stunning views, and historical journeys make California road trips legendary.

Ventura County Coast lies off Highway 101 between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Each town offers its own charm. Pack sunglasses, hiking shoes, and cameras to capture the 22 miles of sunny beaches in Ventura. Bring a light sweater for the cool ocean breeze during evening beach bonfires or coastal walks.

When hitting the road in California, packing essentials is key. Must-haves include:

  • Sunglasses
  • Cameras
  • Hiking shoes
  • Hats
  • Sunscreen
  • Binoculars for capturing incredible views and wildlife sightings

Ventura County Coast offers gems like the Channel Islands National Park, with hiking trails, ocean vistas, and wildlife spotting. Hop on a ferry to explore beyond land and spot whales and dolphins.

Planning trips using tools like Roadtrippers Autopilot can simplify the process. Input details to craft custom trips, explore hidden gems, and track real-time traffic. Sharing your itinerary with travel companions can help finalize the plan.

The California road trip remains a story waiting to be experienced, from must-have items to the historical routes that paved the way.

A picturesque stretch of the Ventura County Coast along Highway 101, with the ocean on one side and rolling hills on the other, showcasing the stunning views and natural beauty of the area.

Iconic Cross-Country Routes

Historic Route 66 and The Loneliest Road are iconic cross-country routes that encapsulate the spirit of American road trips. Historic Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a mosaic of Americana. Key highlights include Meramec Caverns in Missouri and the Painted Desert in Arizona.

To fully embrace the Route 66 experience, stop at classic, kitschy joints along the way. These spots offer a glimpse into mid-20th century Americana, from vintage diners to restored gas stations. Pack a good playlist with classic rock and country hits to enhance the trip, and don't forget a sturdy camera for capturing grand landscapes and quaint roadside attractions.

The Loneliest Road, U.S. Route 50, spans from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, offering solitude and raw beauty. Highlights include the red rock vistas of Moab, Utah, and the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado. Preparation is key, with essentials like water, snacks, and a reliable map.

Using planning tools like Roadtrippers Autopilot can help craft a custom itinerary and ensure you don't miss hidden gems. Real-time traffic updates and wildfire smoke maps are invaluable for staying informed and safe.

Integrating segments of Historic Route 66 with parts of U.S. Route 50 can offer a unique juxtaposition of American road trip experiences, blending mid-century Americana with the pristine solitude of America's wilderness.

An open mind and flexible itinerary can make all the difference in your journey on these iconic roads.

Mini-Road Trips from El Paso

For travelers starting from El Paso, several mini-road trips offer a delightful escape filled with activities, scenic views, and local attractions.

Ruidoso, New Mexico

Just a 2-hour 30-minute drive away, Ruidoso offers a scenic route perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The town, nestled in the Sacramento Mountains, provides opportunities for camping, hiking, and enjoying nearby lakes. Ruidoso also has a variety of food options and a casino for entertainment.

Cloudcroft, New Mexico

Under two hours from El Paso, Cloudcroft offers a slower pace ideal for a relaxing getaway. The fresh air, beautiful scenery, and camping at places like Silver Lake make it a fantastic spot to unwind. Cloudcroft's high elevation means cooler temperatures, a refreshing change from El Paso's heat.

Carlsbad, New Mexico

About 2 hours 45 minutes away, Carlsbad is home to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The caverns are awe-inspiring with their vast underground chambers and stunning rock formations. Carlsbad Lake and the public pool in the same park offer boating and other activities for families.

Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico

Around 3 hours 45 minutes away, Albuquerque and Santa Fe make for excellent road trip destinations. Albuquerque's zoo, aquarium, museums, and the unique Meow Wolf art installation cater to all age groups. CLIFF's Amusement Park is perfect for a day of fun rides and games. A short drive to Santa Fe offers additional cultural and artistic experiences, including another Meow Wolf location and a rich history to explore.

Other honorable mentions include Silver City's gem and rock show, Mckittrick Canyon's beautiful hiking opportunities, Alamogordo's Alameda Park Zoo and Space Museum, the Marfa Light Festival, and the Big Pistachio and White Sands.

Planning such trips can be stress-free with tools like Roadtrippers Autopilot, which crafts custom itineraries and offers real-time updates. Sharing your itinerary with travel companions ensures everyone contributes to and enjoys the experience.

A collage featuring popular road trip destinations in New Mexico, such as Ruidoso, Cloudcroft, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe, showcasing the diverse landscapes, attractions, and experiences available in the state.
  1. National Park Service. Channel Islands National Park. https://www.nps.gov/chis/index.htm.
  2. National Park Service. Carlsbad Caverns National Park. https://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm.