The Stunning California Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America
Lysa Allman-Baldwin
Author
California is world-renowned for its distinctive cities and towns, historic attractions, and scenic beauty. You will find numerous amazing road trip opportunities throughout The Golden State, but the journey from Mendocino north to Crescent City is definitely one not to be missed. You can even reverse the route and travel from Crescent City to Mendocino if you prefer! It’s only a 4-1/2-hour drive if you do it straight through. But that would be a mistake, as there is a wealth to experience and explore at so many points in between. This is one of the most scenic drives in NorCal!
Follow this Google Maps route and add any stops you’d like along the way.
1. Explore History in Mendocino
Located in the heart of the Mendocino Historic District, the museum, which was founded in 1973, is a beautiful, buttercup yellow, ocean-view home featuring an acre of tranquil gardens and a pond. Inside, visitors can learn all about the rich history of this quaint, picturesque town and the rich history of the surrounding Mendocino County area.
2. Experience the Great Outdoors in Fort Bragg
Among the highlights here are the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, recreational activities and animal adventures along the Noyo River, as well as at the Noyo Harbor, and a retro trip to a bygone era along the world-famous Skunk Train, among other diversions.
3. Marvel at Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Encompassing more than 53,000 acres, it is not only the third-largest state park in California but also home to some of the world’s tallest redwood trees. Activities besides tree-gawking include camping, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and biking, just to name a few.
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4. Rest in a Historic Home in Ferndale
Built in 1854 during the state’s Gold Rush Era, the inn was the family home of its namesake for over a century. Today guests can luxuriate in seven different rooms featuring vaulted ceilings, four-poster beds, claw-foot bathtubs, antique furniture, and other inviting comforts.
5. Delve into the Sand and Surf in Trinidad
One of the highlights here is Trinidad State Beach. Gently ensconced in a sheltered cove, the beach is a wonderful place to walk on the sand, dip your toes in the surf, and enjoy a picnic
6. Look Toward the Light in Crescent City
At first glance, it may seem like the Battery Point Lighthouse is inaccessible, resting on a strip of land surrounded by water. But it is at low tide when the magic happens! When the ocean water recedes, it reveals a two-hundred-foot-long road to this historic structure first put into service in 1856.
This is just the tip of the iceberg of all there is to see, do, explore, and enjoy along this awe-inspiring California road trip route.
Have you driven this spectacular stretch of the state? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience there.
If you’re looking for more road trip adventures, you won’t want to miss these 11 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Northern California Before You Die. You should also check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List before you hit the road!
Want to check out more scenic places around California? Take a look at this video on California’s national parks by OnlyInYourState:
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