A Journey Through the Golden State: Top Five Popular Attractions Between Calexico to Crescent City, California

Looking for a road trip through the Golden State that showcases the diverse landscapes, natural wonders, and hidden gems waiting to be explored? Look no further than a drive between Calexico and Crescent City. From the sun-kissed southern border of California to the misty forests of the north, this scenic route is filled with memorable stops along the way.

A Halfway Point at Los Banos

Before we get started with the top five popular attractions, let's highlight the halfway point of this journey: Los Banos. Situated in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, this small town is a perfect spot to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore the surrounding area. Take a walk around the historic downtown, visit the Los Banos Wildlife Area for birdwatching or fishing, or head to Pacheco Pass for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Now, let's move on to the top five must-see attractions on this road trip:

1. Salvation Mountain

Bold, colorful, and utterly unique, Salvation Mountain is an attraction that simply cannot be missed. This quirky art installation located in the desert town of Niland was created by artist Leonard Knight over the course of three decades. Made entirely out of adobe, straw, and paint, this mountain serves as a tribute to God's love and grace. Visitors can explore the various rooms and paths of this mountain, taking in the vibrant colors and inspiring messages along the way.

2. Joshua Tree National Park

Nestled between the Mojave and Colorado deserts, Joshua Tree National Park is a true natural wonder. With over 790,000 acres of pristine wilderness to explore, visitors can hike through canyons, climb to the top of rocky formations, and marvel at the eponymous Joshua trees that dot the landscape. Whether you're an experienced outdoors enthusiast or simply looking to connect with nature, Joshua Tree is a must-see destination on any California road trip.

3. San Luis Obispo

With its charming downtown, picturesque wineries, and pristine beaches, San Luis Obispo is a hidden gem along the Central Coast of California. Take a stroll around the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, indulge in some local wine tasting, or hit the sand at nearby Pismo Beach. No matter what your interests are, San Luis Obispo has something to offer.

4. Golden Gate Bridge

One of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see attraction for any road trip through California. This 1.7-mile-long suspension bridge spans the Golden Gate strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, taking in the stunning views of the bay and the city skyline.

5. Redwood National and State Parks

Last but certainly not least, no California road trip would be complete without a visit to the Redwood National and State Parks. This network of parks spanning over 139,000 acres is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, including the famous coastal redwoods. Visitors can hike through the forest to see these giant trees up close, or take a scenic drive along one of the park's many coastal routes.

The Best Route for This Trip

Now that we've explored the top five popular attractions, let's talk about the best route for this trip. Starting from Calexico, head west on I-8 until you reach Salvation Mountain. From there, continue north on CA-111 until you reach Joshua Tree National Park. After exploring the park, head west on I-10 until you reach San Luis Obispo. From there, take CA-1 north along the coast until you reach the Golden Gate Bridge. Finally, head north on US-101 until you reach Redwood National and State Parks.

This California road trip is full of natural wonders, quirky attractions, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you're a seasoned road warrior or simply looking for a fun getaway, this journey is sure to leave you with lasting memories of the Golden State.