Road Trip: Driving from Cambria to Furnace Creek, California

Looking for a scenic road trip to experience the beauty of California? Look no further than the drive from Cambria to Furnace Creek. California has some of the most breathtaking views in the United States. This guide will show you the different routes you can take, how far they are, and roughly how long they’ll take depending on traffic.

Fastest Route

The quickest route from Cambria to Furnace Creek is via I-5 N and CA-58 E. This route will take you inland, but you'll still get some incredible views. The total distance of 416 miles can be covered in 6 hours and 30 minutes of driving, averaging at 64 mph. However, during the peak season, the traffic around Los Angeles can be problematic, meaning your journey will take longer.

Alternative Scenic Route

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, try taking CA-1 N and CA-68 E. This route is longer, with a total distance of approximately 437 miles, but the beauty of the sea and mountains is hard to ignore. It will take you around 8 hours and 30 minutes via this route, but the journey will be worth it. It is suggested that the best part of this route is Monterey Bay, and a visit to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium would make for a great pit stop.

Slowest Route

One slow but steady route is via US-101 S and CA-46 E. This route takes you through the wine country of California. The distance is roughly 398 miles, and this route takes approximately 9 hours to complete. However, this route can be frustrating for some drivers due to the constant stop and go traffic in Paso Robles, which makes the journey even longer during peak traffic times.

Best Time for the Drive

To dodge the traffic, the best time to embark on the journey from Cambria to Furnace Creek is early in the morning during the weekdays. In this way, you'll avoid the rush of commuters who head to work. In terms of the seasons, summer is often the busiest time of year for road trips leading to increased traffic with more tourists visiting California.

Conclusion

Before embarking on your drive from Cambria to Furnace Creek, plan your route and make sure you have everything you need for the trip. No matter which route you select, there are plenty of restaurants and gas stations to keep you fueled and fed along the way. With a variety of routes to choose from, you'll be sure to have an unforgettable experience on your road trip. Enjoy the beaches, wildlife, and small towns, and don't forget to stop to take some amazing pictures!