Los Angeles, with its bustling urban sprawl and iconic cityscape, is a city that never sleeps. But sometimes, you just need to escape the hustle and bustle, hit the open road, and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. Luckily, L.A. is perfectly situated for a wide range of road trips, whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation. From the picturesque desert landscapes of Joshua Tree to the lush redwood forests of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, here’s a curated list of the best road trips from L.A., complete with suggested round-trip times and must-see attractions along the way.
Palm Springs
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 105 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 2 days minimum
Palm Springs offers a quick and easy escape from Los Angeles, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. As you head east, you’ll pass by vast wind farms, where imposing turbines cast shadows across the otherwise monotonous landscape. Keep an eye out for the quirky Cabazon Dinosaurs, a popular roadside attraction featuring a 50-foot Brontosaurus and a T. Rex. You can even climb to the top of the T. Rex for a unique experience. In Palm Springs, explore the town’s modernist architecture with a self-guided tour courtesy of the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center.
Joshua Tree
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 130 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days minimum
Joshua Tree National Park is a magical destination known for its otherworldly landscapes, characterized by ancient Joshua Trees and massive boulders strewn about. Enjoy leisurely drives through the park while taking in the mesmerizing scenery. Joshua Tree is renowned for its stargazing opportunities, and if you plan an overnight camping trip, you might be serenaded by the haunting howls of wild coyotes. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for a meal and live music, and don’t miss the quirky World Famous Crochet Museum in Joshua Tree town.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 235 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 3 days minimum
For nature enthusiasts and tree lovers, a road trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is a must. These parks boast giant redwoods that you can drive through and under, providing a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Sequoia offers attractions like the General Sherman Tree (the largest living thing on Earth), Tunnel Log (a fallen hollowed-out Sequoia you can drive through), and Moro Rock. Kings Canyon is a hiker’s paradise, with winding roads and backcountry trails that promise adventure. Always check road conditions and wildfire risk before heading out.
Las Vegas
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 270 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 3 days minimum
Instead of flying to Las Vegas, opt for a road trip filled with fun detours. Explore Calico Ghost Town for a taste of Wild West history before heading to the remnants of Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa, a quirky and fraudulent healing resort created by Curtis Howe Springer. Further down the road in Baker, you can have an alien sighting at Alien Jerky and enjoy delicious Greek cuisine at the Mad Greek. If you’re up for more adventure, take a scenic loop through Red Rock Canyon.
Mammoth Lakes
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 310 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 3 days minimum
Drive along scenic Route 395 and savor breathtaking views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range. In Big Pine, stop at Copper Top BBQ for some mouthwatering ribs and tri-tips. You might even meet alpine climbers preparing for or returning from Mount Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous U.S. Take a detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home to the world’s oldest trees, some of which have thrived for over 4,000 years. In Bishop, indulge in fresh-baked goods at Erick Schat’s Bakery and choose from a wide selection of gourmet jerkies at Mahogany Smoked Meats. Along Route 395, you can find easily accessible hot springs south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.
San Francisco
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 390 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 3–4 days minimum
The journey to San Francisco offers two distinct routes: the scenic Pacific Coast Highway or the faster but less picturesque Interstate 5. Along Highway 1, stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a glimpse into themed guest rooms. If time allows, visit Hearst Castle, a sprawling estate boasting 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, and 127 acres of gardens. As you continue north, pass through Gilroy, known as the garlic capital of the world, and make a detour to the Winchester Mystery House near San Jose. This house, rumored to be haunted by spirits of Winchester rifle victims, features eccentric architectural additions made to confuse wandering ghosts.
Napa and Sonoma
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 415 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 5 days minimum
Explore the scenic Wine Country with a picturesque drive up the coast, followed by a journey inland through rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. When you approach the area, choose between heading west to Sonoma or east to Napa, each offering its unique charm. Consider a hot air balloon ride for stunning aerial views of vineyards and landscapes. The primary attraction here is, of course, the wineries, so be sure to indulge responsibly or use Lyft for safe transportation.
Lake Tahoe
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 465 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 4–5 days minimum
Take the scenic Route 395 to Lake Tahoe, a route that winds through the Eastern Sierras, passing through charming towns like Lone Pine, Big Pine, and Bishop. Enjoy picturesque strolls and delectable detours at Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and Schat’s Bakery in Bishop. Lake Tahoe and its surroundings offer fantastic exploration opportunities by car. Head west into the mountains for pine forests, crystal-clear snowmelt lakes, and tiny towns. Seek out natural hot springs for a soothing soak, or visit world-class bouldering and climbing sites like the Happys, Sads, or Owens River Gorge. For unique waterscapes, visit Mono Lake’s “tufas,” slender limestone towers reflecting in saline waters. Consider a side trip to Yosemite National Park for a must-see experience, or explore the well-preserved ghost town of Bodie.
Flagstaff and Sedona
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 470 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 5 days minimum
The road trip to Flagstaff and Sedona offers a dramatic change in scenery, transitioning from desert landscapes to shrub-covered hills, dense forests, and even snow, depending on the season. Along the way, you can make detours to the Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, and Las Vegas, depending on your preferences and the time available. Whether you choose Flagstaff or Sedona as your destination, the 30-minute drive between the two cities is a scenic delight. Flagstaff boasts a hip, small-town atmosphere with craft beer, live music, and friendly locals, while Sedona offers stunning vistas and numerous health and wellness spas for a relaxing escape.
Big Sur
- Distance from L.A.: Approximately 350 miles
- Suggested round-trip time: 3 days minimum
Big Sur, with its iconic coastline and redwood-covered mountainsides, is a paradise for road trippers. The narrow road carved into the cliffside offers breathtaking views and a touch of vertigo. Before heading too far north, consider stopping off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach for a refreshing dip or sunbathing. Keep an eye out for signs indicating the presence of elephant seals along the shoreline. Big Sur is best explored by driving along Highway 1, parking your car at scenic spots, and following unmarked trails (watch out for poison oak). For more mapped destinations, visit the touristy but worthwhile McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach. Although the Esalen Institute’s hot spring baths used to be open to the public, this may have changed, so check before planning a visit. For a less-traveled experience, take Nacimiento Road to Mission San Antonio de Padua, a remote valley setting in Big Sur where you can enjoy some solitude.
Conclusion
Los Angeles offers a gateway to an array of remarkable road trip destinations, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re seeking desert landscapes, majestic redwoods, wine country adventures, or coastal beauty, there’s a road trip from L.A. to suit every traveler’s preferences. So, hop in your car, crank up the tunes, and embark on an unforgettable journey through California and beyond. Road-tripping from Los Angeles has never been more exciting, and the possibilities for adventure are endless.
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