The Epic Road Trip from Boulder to Los Angeles

Are you feeling a bit cooped up and looking for an adventure? Hop in your car and drive from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California. This road trip takes you through stunning landscapes, unique cities, and iconic American landmarks. Guaranteed, there's never a dull moment with this route.

The Top Places to See When Driving from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California

So, what are the top places to see? Here's a top 5 list to help guide you on your epic road trip adventure.

1. Arches National Park, Utah

Just over a four-hour drive from Boulder, Arches National Park in Moab, Utah, is a must-see landmark with its towering red sandstone formations. The park sits atop a salt bed that was deposited about 300 million years ago when a sea flowed into the area and eventually evaporated, this created the thick salt layers underlying Moab Valley. Over the next 150 million years, the salt bed was covered with other sediments, creating a layered cake-like deposit - now know as the Entrada Formation.

2. Hoover Dam, Nevada

A three and a half hour drive from the national park, you'll find yourself in the heart of Las Vegas, where you can stop and view the famous Hoover Dam. This gravity-arch dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River took five years to complete back in 1936 and today provides power to parts of Nevada, Arizona, and California. You can walk or drive across the dam and take a tour of the facilities. A great opportunity to stretch your legs, nab a photo or two, and be fascinated by an engineering feat.

3. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

After a four-hour drive from the Hoover Dam, you'll find yourself in Joshua Tree National Park, the top spot for all you nature lovers. The park is named for its majestic Joshua trees, made famous by U2's 1987 album by the same name. Besides the trees, the park has a rugged landscape highlighted by massive rock formations and old mining sites. The daytime temperatures can get pretty hot; if you come in the evening, you'll witness an extraordinary sunset and sky full of shining stars.

4. Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, CA

From Joshua Tree National Park, it's a three-hour drive to Los Angeles and an opportunity to stroll around the iconic Griffith Observatory. Go during the day and you'll be rewarded with unmatched views of the city. Catch a movie presentation at the planetarium or better yet, come at night and stargaze through the spectacular telescopes. This is one of Los Angeles' most-visited landmarks with displays that showcase the universe's grandeur, and hands-on exhibits.

5. Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles, CA

You have almost reached your destination, but before that, make sure you stop by one of Los Angeles' most iconic destinations, the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the scenery on this over 100-year-old pier that has featured in several iconic movies and songs. There are plenty of entertainment options; you could try your hand at fishing, ride the Ferris Wheel, or board the Pacific Park roller coaster for a thrilling ride. You'll enjoy pleasant ocean views of the Pacific that cap off an epic road trip that you'll never forget.

In Conclusion

The route from Boulder, Colorado to Los Angeles, California is rich in history, beauty, and diversity. The memories you'll create along the way are invaluable, and the journey is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, add these stops to your itinerary and soak in the adventure that this picturesque road trip has to offer. Safe travels.