Road Trip to Remember: Traveling from Carson to Tulare in California

Are you planning a road trip to the Central Valley of California from Carson? Tulare County may be a top destination for its national parks, lakes, and landmarks. But how long is the trip, you ask? The answer depends on which route you take and what mode of transportation you use. Read on to discover some options for traveling from Carson to Tulare.

The Distance and Travel Options

First things first, let's calculate the distance between Carson and Tulare. If you take the shortest route, which is via CA-99 North from LA to Tulare, the distance is about 168 miles, and it should take around 2 hours and 45 minutes. Of course, the time varies depending on traffic, weather, and other factors.

There are several options for traveling from Carson to Tulare, including driving, public transportation, or a combination of both. Driving is the most popular mode of transportation, and it gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and enjoy the scenery or sights.

The Scenic Route

If you are not in a rush, taking a scenic route is always a good idea. Going northwest along the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) from Carson to Santa Monica, Malibu, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Santa Cruz will take you on a journey of stunning views and popular tourist spots. It's about 260 miles and should take around 6 hours, depending on how many stops you make.

The Inland Route

If you'd like to see more of the Central Valley, taking the inland route via CA-58 East from Bakersfield to Tehachapi and CA-99 North to Tulare is another option. Although the drive is not as scenic as the coastal route, it's faster and shorter, at about 190 miles and 3 hours and 20 minutes. Along the way, you can stop by the Wind Wolves Preserve, Kern River, and Caliente Mountain Range.

The Public Transportation Option

If you don't want to drive or rent a car, there are public transportation options, including Amtrak and Greyhound. Taking the train from Metro Blue Line Station in Long Beach to Hanford Station, and then taking a shuttle to Tulare costs about $40 to $50 and should take around 6 hours. Taking the bus from Downtown LA to Tulare costs about $35 to $45 and should take around 3 hours.

Places to Stop Along the Way

No matter which route you take, there are plenty of places to stop along the way to stretch your legs, grab a bite, or take a break. The coastal route is packed with scenic spots, beaches, and restaurants. Some must-see stops include Santa Monica Pier, Solvang Danish Village, Pismo Beach, and Cannery Row in Monterey. The inland route has its charms too, such as Bakersfield's Buck Owens Crystal Palace and Kern River, Tehachapi's Tehachapi Loop and wind turbines, and Visalia's Fox Theatre and Sequoia National Park.

Conclusion

Traveling from Carson to Tulare in California may seem like a daunting trip, but it's full of adventure and possibilities. Whether you prefer the scenic, inland, or public transportation route, there is a way to get there. Don't forget to make stops along the way to enjoy the journey, and have fun exploring Tulare County's natural wonders and cultural attractions.