The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bullhead City, Arizona and Yucaipa, California
Bullhead City, Arizona and Yucaipa, California might not seem like the most exciting places on their own, but with a road trip between the two, there are plenty of activities to fill your itinerary with. This route will take you through the gorgeous Mojave Desert, and the halfway point in Twentynine Palms, CA is home to one of the most famous national parks in the United States. Here are the top things to do on this road trip:
Visit Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit for anyone in the area. With its stunning desert landscapes, unique rock formations, and of course, its namesake Joshua trees, there's a lot to see and do in the park. Hikers can find trails of varying difficulty levels, and rock climbers can enjoy some of the best climbing in the country. Camping is also available for those who want to experience the park overnight.
Interesting fact: The high number of visitors and urbanization around Joshua Tree National Park have put stress on the park's resources, potentially impacting the future of the park.
Explore London Bridge
Yes, you read that right. London Bridge wasn't always located in London, England. The stone bridge was purchased by an American businessman in 1962 and transported to Lake Havasu in Arizona. Visitors can walk across the bridge and take a tour of the London Bridge Visitor Center to learn more about the bridge's history and how it ended up in Arizona.
Interesting fact: The bridge was once rumored to be falling down before it was purchased and relocated.
Check out the Cabazon Dinosaurs
If you're a fan of roadside attractions, make sure to add the Cabazon Dinosaurs to your itinerary. These life-sized dinosaur sculptures can be seen from the highway, and visitors can enter the dinosaurs to explore the museum and gift shop inside. A must-see for any dinosaur lover or those looking for a quirky photo opportunity.
Interesting fact: The T-Rex dinosaur sculpture at Cabazon Dinosaurs was featured in the movie "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure".
Relax at Lake Havasu
Lake Havasu is a popular destination for boaters, jet skiers, and beachgoers alike. With several beaches and marinas, there's something for everyone on this lake. Visitors can also take a tour of the lake on the Havasu Landing Resort Ferry or check out the famous London Bridge from the water.
Interesting fact: Lake Havasu is surrounded by mountain ranges, including the Chemehuevi Mountains to the south and the Mohave Mountains to the north.
Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes visitors on a ride up to Mount San Jacinto State Park, giving them an incredible view of Coachella Valley along the way. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, observation decks, and even dine at the state park's restaurant. The tramway is a perfect way to escape the desert heat and enjoy beautiful scenery.
Interesting fact: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway was built in the 1960s and is the world's largest rotating tramcar.
In conclusion, this road trip from Bullhead City, Arizona, to Yucaipa, California, is packed with excitement and unique experiences. The route takes approximately four and a half hours to complete, not including time spent at each destination. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a fun day trip, there's something for everyone on this road trip through the Mojave Desert.