Driving Time between Buckeye, Arizona and Yorba Linda, California

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The Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Buckeye, Arizona to Yorba Linda, California

Are you planning a road trip from Buckeye, Arizona to Yorba Linda, California? Whether you're going on vacation, visiting family, or just exploring the West Coast, there are a few different routes you can take to get there. In this guide, we'll break down each route's distance and travel time, as well as some fun places to stop along the way.

Route 1: I-10 West to I-5 North (440 miles, 6-7 hours)

The most direct route from Buckeye to Yorba Linda takes you through the heart of California on I-5. To get there, take I-10 West out of Buckeye and continue for 405 miles until you reach I-5. Head north on I-5 for another 35 miles until you reach Yorba Linda.

This route is the fastest way to get there, but it can also be the busiest, especially during rush hour. Expect a lot of traffic in and around Los Angeles, particularly on I-5 North and any connecting freeways. That said, if you're up for an adventure, there are plenty of fun places to stop along the way.

Recommendations for Route 1

If you're looking for a pit stop before reaching Yorba Linda, check out:

  • The Outlets at Tejon: A shopping center near the intersection of I-5 and Highway 99. Stop here for some retail therapy or grab a bite to eat.
  • Griffith Observatory: This iconic Los Angeles landmark offers great views of the city, as well as exhibits and events on astronomy and space science.
  • Anaheim Packing House: A historic citrus-packing warehouse that now houses 50+ restaurants and shops. Stop here for a meal or a snack.

Route 2: AZ-85 South to I-8 West to I-10 West (385 miles, 7-8 hours)

If you're looking for a less crowded route, head west on I-8 after leaving Buckeye and take I-10 West from there. You'll still have to deal with some traffic on I-10 near Phoenix and Tucson, but it won't be nearly as bad as on I-5.

The downside of taking this route is that it's longer than taking I-5, so you may need to plan your stops accordingly to avoid getting too tired.

Recommendations for Route 2

If you opt for this route, consider stopping at:

  • Gila Bend: A small town about an hour west of Buckeye with a few restaurants and gas stations.
  • Dateland Travel Center: A gas station and convenience store with a famous date shake. If you're driving through the area, you have to try one!
  • Desert View Tower: A quirky roadside attraction in Jacumba Hot Springs, just off I-8. Climb to the top of the tower for some great views of the surrounding desert.

Route 3: AZ-85 South to CA-78 West to I-15 North to CA-91 West (445 miles, 8-9 hours)

Finally, if you're looking for a scenic route that takes you through some of Southern California's smaller cities, consider taking CA-78 West after leaving Buckeye instead of I-8. From there, head north on I-15 until you reach CA-91 West.

This route is longer and takes longer than the previous two, but it offers some stunning views of the California desert and mountains.

Recommendations for Route 3

If you're driving this route, be sure to stop at:

  • Sonoran Desert National Monument: A protected area in southern Arizona with beautiful cactus-lined hiking trails.
  • Palomar Mountain State Park: A state park in northern San Diego County that's perfect for hiking, camping, and stargazing.
  • Claremont Village: A charming shopping and dining area in the city of Claremont, home to the Claremont Colleges.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, getting from Buckeye, Arizona to Yorba Linda, California will take you through some beautiful and interesting parts of the region. Be sure to plan your stops and rest breaks along the way, and enjoy the journey!