California Driving Tours
Yosemite
Valley is best viewed by traveling along Highway 41
North. The trip begins as a flat stretch of road but gets
increasingly hilly as it winds its way through Oakhurst
and the mining town of Mariposa where you will continue
northeast on Highway 140. Along the way, you will parallel
Merced River and eventually reach the Yosemite Valley. As
you make your way around
the south loop you will see beautiful waterfalls and granite
monoliths like the Half Dome and El Capitan.
For vineyards, wineries and fantastic scenery take Highway
101 north from San
Francisco (or 37 East) to Route 121 toward Napa
Valley. Then, rather than traveling Highway 29, take
the Silverado Trail. Along the way you will find numerous
boutique wineries and hillside vineyards. Continue on to
the hot springs of Calistoga for luxurious spas and fantastic
food. Pick up Highway 29 for more of the popular wineries
which are open for tours and tastings.
 The
72 mile trip around Lake Tahoe provides many photo opportunities.
You will see Emerald Bay and Fannett Island, then on the
western shore you will see the magnificent mountains across
the lake and on the North Shore there are resorts, restaurants
and parks.
Should you travel the North Coast along Highway 101 then on to Route 128 northwest, you will see the Redwoods, wineries and pass the Hendy Woods State Park along the way. Ultimately, you will reach Mendocino with its antique shops, art galleries, and nearby Bowling Ball Beach.
Another great driving state is Wyoming. If you're touring America be sure to visit our Wyoming tourism guide where you can find the best things to do and see in the state with giant skies, open roads, and friendly people.
For craggy mountains and alpine lakes leave Los Angeles heading east toward the Redlands, then northeast to Running Springs. As you make the steady incline of Rim of the World Highway, you will see forest and even deserts to the south. Eventually, you will come to Big Bear Lake which is a favorite spot for outdoor delights like fishing, boating, and in the winter, skiing.
For great hiking spots that are easily accessed from the road, travel from
San
Diego to the mountain town of Julian. Upon reaching
Julian, you will find antique stores, and nearby wineries,
old mines and many bed and breakfasts to make your trip
an overnight success. Check out the book Frommer's 25 Great Drives in California (Best Loved Driving Tours) for many more great drives in California.
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