Breathtaking Scenery and Noteworthy Destinations Make This California Road Trip a Must-Do
California's Route 395, stretching over 550 miles from the Mojave Desert to the Oregon Border, is a must-visit for travellers seeking a diverse and exciting road trip experience. This north-south highway offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and small towns, making it an unforgettable journey through the Golden State.
## Natural Wonders and Recreation
One of the first stops along Route 395 is Mono Lake, known for its unique limestone formations called tufa towers. This magnificent spot, perfect for photography and birdwatching, is a highlight for many visitors. For those seeking relaxation, hot springs such as Keough's Hot Springs, slightly off the route but accessible via a short detour, offer a chance to unwind amidst scenic mountain views.
Further south, Death Valley National Park, although not directly on Route 395, is a short detour from the highway and showcases stunning desert landscapes and unique geological features.
## Ghost Towns
Bodie State Historic Park, located near Bridgeport, just off Route 395, is a well-preserved ghost town that offers a glimpse into California's gold rush era. With decaying homes and a general store, it's one of the American West's most authentic ghost towns.
## Historic Sites
The Manzanar National Historic Site, situated near Independence, commemorates the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. Lone Pine, famous for its movie history, has a museum dedicated to the film industry and offers a walk along Movie Road where many films were shot.
## Small Towns and Landmarks
Lone Pine, set dramatically between the Sierra Nevada and Inyo Mountains, is near the tallest peak in the lower 48 states - Mount Whitney. The small town of Independence, located near the Eastern Sierra Museum, showcases local history and natural history. Bishop, north of Lone Pine, attracts visitors looking to take part in outdoor experiences like climbing and hiking.
## Scenic Drives
Tioga Pass, connecting Yosemite National Park to the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountains, offers a scenic drive with stunning mountain vistas. During the summer and early fall, it provides access to Yosemite National Park, offering an entirely different view of the park than its famous valley entrances.
In conclusion, California's Route 395 offers a diverse array of interesting places to visit, ranging from natural wonders to historic sites. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, this scenic route promises an exciting and varied road trip experience.
Travel guides often recommend California's Route 395 for those seeking diverse road trip experiences, especially for those interested in a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and small towns. The journey through the Golden State offers the opportunity to visit authentic ghost towns like Bodie State Historic Park and learn about important historical events such as the internment of Japanese Americans at Manzanar National Historic Site. Additionally, travel lifestyle enthusiasts may appreciate the scenic drives along Tioga Pass, which offers stunning mountain vistas and a unique perspective of Yosemite National Park.
