Roadtrip from Cathedral City, California to Stockton, California

If you're looking for a fun road trip that will take you through some of California's most interesting landmarks, look no further than the drive from Cathedral City to Stockton. Here are some of the top places you should make a point to visit along the way.

An Interesting Fact about the Route

Did you know that California Route 99, which starts in Stockton and ends in Bakersfield, is one of the busiest roads in the state? It runs for 415 miles and is known for having some of the best farmland in the world along its route.

The Halfway Point: Bakersfield, CA

Make sure to stop and stretch your legs in Bakersfield, which is about halfway between Cathedral City and Stockton. The town is known for producing country music stars like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard, and it's also a great place to try some local BBQ.

The Length of the Trip

This road trip is about 415 miles in total, which should take you around 6-7 hours to complete if you're driving straight through. However, there are plenty of great sights to see along the way, so you may want to budget some extra time for stops.

The Top Five Places to Visit

Joshua Tree National Park - This stunning desert park is located just outside of Cathedral City and is home to the iconic Joshua Tree, as well as rock formations, hiking trails, and incredible stargazing opportunities.

Point of Interest: Make sure to stop by Skull Rock, a unique rock formation that really does look like a human skull.

Hearst Castle - Located a little over halfway through the drive, Hearst Castle is a stunning mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s. The castle features exquisite architecture, stunning art, and beautiful gardens.

Point of Interest: Don't miss the famous Neptune Pool, which holds 345,000 gallons of water and is surrounded by beautiful Roman statues.

Pinnacles National Park - Located on the eastern side of the Salinas Valley, Pinnacles National Park is home to unique rock formations, hiking trails, and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Point of Interest: Keep an eye out for the park's many California Condors, one of the rarest birds in the world.

Monterey Bay Aquarium - Located in the charming town of Monterey, this world-class aquarium lets you get up close and personal with a wide variety of sea creatures, including seals, otters, sharks, and jellyfish.

Point of Interest: Don't miss the aquarium's Open Sea exhibit, which features a 90-foot-long tunnel that lets you walk through the middle of a massive tank filled with tuna, sea turtles, and more.

Yosemite National Park - Located a little further off the main route, Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic parks in the country, with stunning waterfalls, granite cliffs, and beautiful hiking trails.

Point of Interest: Make sure to see Yosemite Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and is accessible by a relatively easy hiking trail.

Point of Interest Recommendations

If you're passing through Bakersfield, make sure to stop and try some BBQ at one of the town's many acclaimed restaurants, such as Eureka! or PorkChop & Bubba's BBQ.
If you're visiting Hearst Castle, make a point to take one of the tours of the property, which will give you an in-depth look at Hearst's life and the history of the castle.
When you're at Pinnacles National Park, be sure to pack a picnic lunch or snack - there are plenty of beautiful spots to stop and eat along the hike.
In Monterey, take a stroll along the town's gorgeous coastline, which is home to some of California's most charming beachfront neighborhoods.
Finally, if you're up for a little extra driving, make a point to camp or hike in Yosemite. This stunning park is one of the most beautiful places in the country, and it's definitely worth the extra time it takes to get there.

The End of the Route

After you've visited these amazing landmarks and parks, you'll finally arrive in Stockton, feeling relaxed and refreshed after your journey. With these exciting stops along the way, this road trip is definitely one you won't forget.