There are few destinations that so readily call to mind the idea of a road trip as the American West, and in many cases, that brings up mental images of a convertible winding along the jagged windswept California coast where it meets the Pacific Ocean.
While Southern California lays claim to the long stretches of beautiful beach that you can cruise past while driving the Pacific Coast Highway, it’s the jagged coastlines of Northern California that travelers crave equally. Whether you want this traditional California road trip experience, or something a bit more outdoorsy, historic, or off-beat, continue reading to discover four stunning road trips in NorCal offering plenty of variety.
Follow the Forty-Niners on Highway 49
Begin: Jamestown
End: Nevada City
Distance: 126 miles (203km)
History buffs may be drawn inland from the coast to explore some of California’s most significant chapters, particularly the Gold Rush of 1849. By driving Highway 49, you can trace the footsteps of the forty-niners through the Sierra Nevada mountains that shaped rich fortunes and bustling towns.
The most important stop along this route is in Marshall Gold Discovery Historic State Park, where gold was first discovered in this region. Other worthwhile stops include Angels Camp, where you can stroll along the dust-covered boardwalks and immerse yourself in mining-town life, and Columbia State Historic Park with its costumed reenactments. Your journey concludes in Nevada City, a remarkably preserved gold town in the West.
While this drive can be completed in one day, consider spreading it out over two or three days to fully enjoy the scenery, visit small-town museums showcasing mining equipment, and explore the vineyards of Amador County and Napa Valley.
Highway 1 Southbound from San Francisco
Start: San Francisco
End: Big Sur
Distance: 147 miles (236km)
Although not all the drives on this list begin in San Francisco, it’s a natural starting point for exploring Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast. Remember not to refer to it as the ‘Pacific Coast Highway’ in this region, as that name only applies in Southern California.
Highway 1 cuts south through the Inner and Outer Sunset neighborhoods but soon leaves behind the urban sprawl and historic Victorians for the gently winding roads that characterize this drive. Shortly after departure, you’ll pass the sweeping vistas of Half Moon Bay and arrive in Santa Cruz. If time permits, take a moment to stroll along the beach, admire the sea lions basking on the pier’s pilings, or enjoy exciting rides and attractions in the waterfront Boardwalk reminiscent of Coney Island.
Continuing south from Santa Cruz, you’ll drift inland through agricultural lands and past fruit stands—fresh strawberries or avocados make excellent road trip snacks. In Monterey, a half-day can easily be spent at the city’s renowned aquarium. It’s also a treat to explore the art galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea. However, if you’re committed to your southern destination, continue onward across the photo-worthy Bixby Canyon Bridge and arrive at Big Sur.
Expect this drive to last anywhere from three hours (with no stops or traffic) to two days. Santa Cruz serves as an ideal halfway point for an overnight stay if you decide to make this a multi-day journey.
Highway 1 Northbound from San Francisco
Start: San Francisco
End: Mendocino
Distance: 169 miles (272km)
Similar to driving Highway 1 southbound, this road trip also begins in San Francisco. However, instead of placing the coast on your right, head north, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, and enter Marin County, a cherished area esteemed by locals. Follow Highway 1 out to the coast, taking a necessary detour to Muir Woods National Monument.
Along the coastline, notable stops include Stinson Beach, where you can dip your toes in the chilly Pacific while wrapped in a cozy sweater on a picturesque sandy stretch; Point Reyes Station, and the nearby Point Reyes National Seashore, which merits at least a full day of exploration; and Mendocino, characterized by its historic seaside cabins and homes.
If you wish to extend your trip, just a few miles north of Highway 20 (the inland route that leads back to SF) is Fort Bragg, home to the famous Glass Beach, created from an old landfill.
Expect this drive to range from five hours to three days, depending on how much time you take to explore.
Avenue of the Giants
Start: Garberville
End: Pepperwood
Distance: 31 miles (50km)
The Avenue of the Giants may be the shortest road trip on this roster, but don’t be surprised if it takes an entire day to navigate this winding two-lane highway through some of the world’s tallest trees.
Even though traffic is unlikely to slow you down, there are numerous stops worth making along this short stretch. Be sure to visit the Founder’s Grove, which honors the early preservation efforts in Humboldt-Redwoods State Park; the Women’s Grove, celebrating women’s contributions to preservation; and the Drury Chaney Trail, where you can walk among patches of picturesque Redwood sorrel to view the ‘Girdled’ tree.
If time allows, extend your trip another 80 miles north to Redwoods National Park, where you’ll discover another massive area of protected Redwoods and ample opportunities to find peace and relaxation among these centuries-old trees. As a bonus, California’s Redwood Coast was ranked the #1 destination on the 2018 Best in the U.S. list.
The Avenue of the Giants can be driven in a single day or less, depending on how many times you choose to stop. Should you opt to visit Redwoods National Park as well, consider spending an overnight stay en route, perhaps in the coastal city of Eureka.
