Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, North Carolina to Richmond, California
Have you ever taken a long drive and found yourself hankering for a break from the endless miles of highway? If so, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are plenty of hidden gems along the route from Burlington, North Carolina to Richmond, California that are worth a visit. The journey covers a distance of approximately 2,800 miles and takes around 44 hours without stopping. But why not make the journey as much a part of your adventure as the destination? Here, we'll take a look at five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Burlington, NC to Richmond, CA.
Half-way Stop: Adrian, TX
The halfway point on this journey is Adrian, Texas -- a small town located just off Route 66. Adrian may not offer much in terms of big city attractions, but it's an excellent place to take a break from the road and relax. This small town exudes a calm atmosphere where you can indulge in locally made delicacies, take a dip in the historically significant pool and snap some typical Old West photos.
1. Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi
Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi marks the site of a 47-day siege during the Civil War in 1863. You can explore the battlefield, the USS Cairo Museum, and numerous monuments and memorials. The park features a 16-mile scenic driving tour as well as numerous trails for hiking or biking. After exploring the park, enjoy a classic southern meal at Rusty's Riverfront Grill for the perfect end to a historic day.
2. Caddo Lake State Park, Texas
Located in East Texas, Caddo Lake State Park looks like it belongs more in Louisiana than Texas. Its sprawling cypress swamps are home to diverse wildlife, including over 200 species of birds, making it an excellent location for kayaking, bird watching, and fishing. Try the locally made boudin and cracklin' from the Boudin King food truck located normally next to the boat ramp.
3. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
A stunning sight along the way is Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. You can enjoy the multicolored hues of the Painted Desert and hike to see petrified wood that dates back more than 200 million years. Join a ranger-guided tour for an in-depth look at the area's history, geology, and ecology. Make sure to stop at Bojo's Grill and Sports Club for the famous burgers as sampled on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives."
4. Tahoe City, California
Tahoe City stretches along Lake Tahoe's shores in California, making it a perfect stopover for nature lovers and adventurous spirits. Check out the water sports, mountain biking, hiking, and snow sports to enjoy the best of California's outdoor pursuits, including Lake Tahoe itself. Grab a salmon smoked over alder wood at the Fire Sign Cafe to energize for the outdoor adventures.
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park is lesser-known than its nationally treasured cousins, Yosemite and Yellowstone. Still, it's packed with a diverse range of hydrothermal features, fascinating geologic sites, and gorgeous mountain scenery in California. The park is pretty much like Yellowstone without the crowds, making it more in tune with nature. Make sure to sample the turkey borek at the miner's gold sandwich shop in the park before leaving.
Conclusion
In summary, taking a road trip from Burlington, North Carolina, to Richmond, California, is a significant undertaking. But stopping at these five unexpected places along the way is an excellent opportunity to break up a long drive and explore some hidden gems. From history and culture to the great outdoors, the journey offers something unique and exciting for everyone. So, why not make your next road trip more memorable by visiting these less-travelled but remarkable destinations?