Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carbon Cliff, Illinois and Los Angeles, California

If you are planning a scenic drive from Carbon Cliff, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, you are in for a treat. The trip is 1,802 miles long and takes approximately 27 hours of driving through scenic and breathtaking landscapes. With a little bit of planning, you can discover hidden gems along the way and make the trip even more memorable. So buckle up and let's discover five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Carbon Cliff to Los Angeles.

Halfway Point: Beaver Creek, CO

Beaver Creek, CO is an enchanting mountain town and a perfect halfway point to break up a long drive and take a break from the road. With plenty of summer and winter activities, Beaver Creek, CO offers an unparalleled locale for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Known for ski slopes, snowshoeing, and snowboarding, Beaver Creek is open year-round with numerous picturesque trails for hiking, fishing, and biking during sunny days. Take a stroll through the Beaver Creek Village with its beautiful architecture and exceptional dining options. Do not hesitate to stay overnight to explore all the town has to offer fully.

Stop 1: Bonneville Salt Flats, UT

Bonneville Salt Flats, UT is one of the most peculiar and scenic natural wonders in the western United States. The salt flats cover 30,000 acres and offer a unique view of white crystalline sheets. They were formed when the ancient lake dried up and left tons of salt deposits behind. The vast flats are ideal for driving, so make sure to bring your car and experience the feeling of driving across the mirror-like surface. Find time to stop at the Bonneville Speedway, the home of dozens of land speed records. You can also organize a guided tour of the flats to learn more about their history and geology.

Favorite food to eat: A milkshake at Dennys in Wendover

Stop 2: Sand Dunes National Park, CO

Sand Dunes National Park, CO is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and a perfect place to stretch your legs and take a few memorable pictures. The park encompasses 30 square miles of dunes, forests, and mountains, providing a fantastic contrast of scenery. Rent a sandboard and try sandboarding across the dunes for an adrenaline rush. You can also take a short hike to the top to a place that offers stunning views of the dunes as far as the eye can see. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is mild.

Favorite food to eat: A burrito from San Luis Valley Pizza Company

Stop 3: Petrified Forest National Park, AZ

Petrified Forest National Park, AZ is a mesmerizing and distinct desert ecosystem characterized by badlands of colorful stone, fossilized logs, and unique geological formations. The park offers a 28-mile scenic drive that runs through the Painted Desert, with opportunities to stop at several viewpoints. Explore the hiking trails and discover countless fossils, petroglyphs, and ruins along the way. The park is relatively small and manageable in a day trip, but It is also well worth an overnight stay to soak up all the breathtaking views the park has to offer.

Favorite food to eat: A Navajo Taco from Painted Desert Diner

Stop 4: Hoover Dam, NV

Hoover Dam, NV is one of the most recognized and remarkable landmarks in the United States. The pristine engineering marvel is located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River and spans the border between Nevada and Arizona. Its construction was completed in 1936 and required the work of 5,000 men over five years to build. Take a guided tour of the dam, walk across it, and visit the power plant to appreciate the scale and beauty of this fascinating site.

Favorite food to eat: A burger from the local diner near the dam.

Stop 5: Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Joshua Tree National Park, CA is an extraordinary and surreal desert landscape that is a must-see destination along the route. The park is named for its unique trees, which only grow in the Mojave Desert. Joshua Tree National Park offers breathtaking views of rugged mountains, golden deserts, and a vibrant array of wildlife. The park is ideal for stargazing, so make sure to stay overnight and have an unforgettable experience. Take a short hike to Hidden Valley, climb the rock formations, or take in the famous Cholla Cactus Garden.

Favorite food to eat: Burritos from La Casita Mexican Restaurant

Overall, a scenic drive from Carbon Cliff, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California, is filled with incredible natural wonders and hidden gems along the way. These five unexpected stops offer a unique way to explore the beautiful scenery and enrich your experience in ways you never thought possible. So pack your bags and set out on an adventure that you will never forget!