The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bakersfield, CA to Gilbert, AZ
The road trip from Bakersfield, California to Gilbert, Arizona is a popular route for many travelers. Along the way, explorers will find a mix of natural beauty, fun attractions, and unique experiences. Starting in Bakersfield and ending in Gilbert, this trip spans 520 miles and takes about 8 hours to complete. A highlight of the trip, the halfway point in Indio, California, offers a variety of activities to break up the drive.
Top 5 Things to Do
1. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see destination, located about an hour east of Indio. Visitors can hike, rock climb, and stargaze while surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. The park is named for the Joshua Tree, a unique type of yucca plant found only in the southwestern United States.
2. Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is a marvel of engineering and an icon of the American West, located about four hours from Indio. The dam provides electricity, water, and flood protection for the region. Visitors can take a guided tour, learn about the dam's history in the museum, or simply enjoy the views from the observation deck.
3. Sedona Red Rocks
Sedona's red rock formations are a world-famous natural wonder, located about two and a half hours from Indio. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the canyons and marvel at the stunning colors and formations. It is believed that Sedona's rocks contain special energy and spiritual qualities.
4. Petrified Forest National Park
Petrified Forest National Park is a unique destination for anyone interested in geology or history, located about four hours from Indio. The park contains ancient petrified wood, colorful badlands, and archaeological sites of ancient civilizations. Visitors can hike to see the petrified wood up close, or learn about the indigenous peoples who once lived in the area.
5. Tonto National Forest
Tonto National Forest, located less than an hour from Gilbert, is the fifth-largest forest in the United States. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, or swim in the many lakes and streams found throughout the forest. The forest is also home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered Mexican gray wolf.
Interesting Facts
- Joshua Tree National Park was once the site of a gold rush in the 1800s.
- The Hoover Dam is so large that it creates its own microclimate, with lower temperatures and increased humidity around the base of the dam.
- Sedona's red rocks are made of sandstone and limestone, with iron oxide minerals giving them their unique colors.
- Petrified Forest National Park contains fossils of plants and animals from over 200 million years ago.
- Tonto National Forest was once home to the ancient Hohokam people, who built canals to irrigate their crops.
Conclusion
Travelers along the Bakersfield to Gilbert road trip will be treated to a range of natural beauty and unique experiences. From the rugged desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park to the world-famous Sedona red rocks, there is something for everyone. By the end of the trip, visitors will have covered 520 miles and spent around 8 hours on the road. Regardless of the length of the drive, the beautiful sights and memorable experiences make it all worth it.