Road Trip from California to Bloomsburg: Your Ultimate Guide
Are you planning a road trip from California to Bloomsburg? Whether you're moving for a new job, visiting family, or just want to explore the Keystone State, planning your journey can make a big difference. From stunning landscapes to exciting cities and cozy towns, there's plenty to see and experience on the way. To help you plan your trip, here's a guide to the different routes, distances, and driving times from California to Bloomsburg.
Route 1: The Southern Route
The most direct and popular route from California to Bloomsburg takes you east across the southern states. Starting in Los Angeles, you'll take I-40 East all the way to Nashville, then switch to I-65 North until you reach Indianapolis. From there, you'll take I-70 East until you reach Columbus, then switch to I-71 North until you reach Cleveland. Finally, you'll take I-80 East until you reach Bloomsburg.
This route covers a distance of approximately 2,840 miles and takes around 42 hours of non-stop driving. However, you can break it down into smaller segments and stop at various attractions, national parks, and cities along the way. Some notable stops include:
- Grand Canyon National Park: hiking, scenic drives, and breathtaking views
- Nashville: live music, museums, and southern cuisine
- Indianapolis: museums, sports, and outdoor activities
- Columbus and Cleveland: history, art, and entertainment
- Pittsburgh: bridges, sports teams, and delicious food
Plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance to make the most of your trip.
Route 2: The Northern Route
If you prefer a more scenic and less traveled route, the northern option might be the one for you. Starting in San Francisco, you'll head east on I-80 and cross the Sierra Nevada mountains into Nevada. Then, you'll continue through the Great Salt Lake Desert and onto the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming. Next, you'll pass through the Badlands of South Dakota and the Great Lakes of Minnesota until you reach Chicago. From there, you'll take I-80 East until you reach Bloomsburg.
This route covers a distance of approximately 3,200 miles and takes around 50 hours of non-stop driving. However, it offers stunning natural scenery, unique attractions, and less traffic compared to the southern route. Some of the must-see stops include:
- Lake Tahoe: beaches, hiking trails, and water sports
- Salt Lake City: museums, mountains, and food scene
- Mount Rushmore: iconic landmark and national monument
- Minneapolis: arts, culture, and outdoor activities
- Chicago: architecture, museums, and deep-dish pizza
Plan ahead and pack enough clothes, food, and water for longer distances and fewer rest stops.
Route 3: The Coastal Route
For a more leisurely and coastal road trip, you can take the western route from California to Pennsylvania. Starting in San Diego, you'll follow the legendary Route 66 until you reach Los Angeles. Then, you'll take Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast through Malibu, Santa Barbara, Monterey, and San Francisco. Next, you'll cross the Golden Gate Bridge and continue through Oregon and Washington until you reach Seattle. Finally, you'll take I-90 East until you reach Bloomsburg.
This route covers a distance of approximately 3,500 miles and takes around 60 hours of non-stop driving. However, it offers incredible ocean views, charming seaside towns, and diverse cultural experiences. Some of the recommended stops include:
- Santa Monica: beach, pier, and amusement park
- Big Sur: cliffs, beaches, and wildlife
- San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman's Wharf
- Portland: food carts, breweries, and gardens
- Seattle: Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass
Plan ahead for any weather changes, especially along the northern Pacific Coast, and consider renting a convertible or RV for added comfort and style.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose, driving from California to Bloomsburg is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that rewards you with stunning scenery, unique attractions, and unforgettable memories. To make the most of your trip, plan ahead, pack smart, and stay safe on the road. Don't forget to take breaks, try local cuisine, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Happy travels!