Road Trip from California to Arizona – how to make your journey totally awesome

Purrs and whiskers, I’ve got a penchant for prowling in the western lands of the United States. From the purrfect Pacific shores to the wild Rockies and the vibrant hues of the southwest, this territory is truly a cat’s paradise. There are so many amazing routes to follow in this part of this country, that it may be hard to figure out where to start. If you are into dramatic nature, laid-back beach towns, and quirky roadside attractions, then a road trip from California to Arizona is just your ticket. It’s time to get ready for a paw-some adventure!

Depending on the season you choose for your journey, your starting point may vary. It’s whisker-wise to set out in late fall to avoid the scorching Arizona summer heat. Expect mild weather, breathtaking sunsets, and starry night skies as you embark on your meow-nificent road trip from California to Arizona. Let’s dive into some must-visit spots, starting with California.

Road trip from California to Arizona, start here: Big Sur – California

Originally called El Sur Grande or The Big South, Big Sur is one of the most beautiful areas in California. Spanning 90 miles of jagged coastline, Big Sur is an undeveloped area full of amazing views and outdoor activities.

To fully explore Big Sur, you should start your drive in the lovely town of Carmel. Fun fact: Clint Eastwood was once mayor here!

As you begin your drive south, you’ll notice the Santa Lucia mountain range to your east. Just on the other side of the mountain range, you’ll find the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA, an excellent place to taste some of California’s best wines.

Depending on your preferred level of activity, Big Sur has something for everyone. Exploring roadside viewpoints and wildlife viewing are both amazing ways to get to know the area. For more active travelers, there is plenty of hiking, with rewarding views of this unique coastline.

Aside from relishing in nature, the famous Nepenthe restaurant is located on Pacific Coast Highway 1. Between Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Castro Canyon, this is a frequent watering hole for celebrities, tourists, and locals alike. Even if you’re not hungry, it’s worth a stop to see their famous curved deck with a truly stunning view.

Stunning landscape in Yosemite National Park – California

Sometimes called the Land of Giants, a reference to its huge granite formations, Yosemite is well renowned for its natural beauty. The most famous of its giant granite formations is El Capitan. Best known as the world’s tallest monolith, it is a popular rock climbing destination for enthusiasts from all over the world. Another popular destination is Half Dome, which can be climbed without any specialized gear. The final stretch requires the use of permanently mounted metal cables due to the smooth and steep terrain.

However, you do not need to climb rocks or scale mountains to fully appreciate what Yosemite has to offer. This world-famous national park is chock-full of amazing views, unique wildlife, camping, and outdoor activities.

The quintessential beach stop: Pismo Beach – California

If wine tasting and pristine beaches are on your agenda, then you won’t want to miss Pismo Beach. It is also the winter home to thousands of Monarch butterflies, who live in a protected grove near the area. Pismo is a great stop for families because of its many hiking trails, impressive playgrounds, and stunning ocean views.

Pismo Beach is also home to a 1200-foot pier, built in the 1920s. It’s a great place for watching surfers, but fishing buffs enjoy it too. The Pismo Beach Pier allows fishing for certain species without a license. Another fun fact about Pismo Beach is that they allow vehicles to drive on the sand. Imagine a beach day where you don’t have to carry all your stuff back and forth to the car!

Quirky art that blends into the landscape: Palm Springs – California

Moving into Southern California, your next stop will be the impossibly stylish town of Palm Springs. The area is fed by an underground water source and cultivated into a green expansion hedged by a desert landscape. If that scenery is not dramatic enough, the San Jacinto Mountains also watch over the town from the south. Palm Springs is best known for world-class golf courses, mid-century art and architecture, and a plethora of boutique motels.

Depending on your budget, you can enjoy a day by the motel pool or engage with a variety of day spas and top-tier restaurants. Make sure to leave time for the Palm Springs Art Museum, which is surprisingly well-stocked despite the town’s small population.

The most famous stop: Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

There is no better way to turn your road trip into a totally awesome adventure than a visit to the Grand Canyon. Why? Because it is really is grand! It is grand in scale, grand in beauty, and full of grand adventures.

The canyon spans 277 miles in length and is 1 mile deep. The result of the Colorado River carving its path for millions of years, this well-known national park is truly a sight to behold.

While most of my greatest memories involve hiking, there are plenty of ways to explore. One of the most famous activities is the mule ride to the bottom of the canyon. You can also go rafting, cycling, partake in wildlife photography, and enjoy several scenic drives.

Road trip from California to Arizona, finding peace in Sedona – Arizona

Just south of the Grand Canyon, you’ll find a little gem called Sedona. Known for its gorgeous landscape, made of red rocks, this town is also packed with culture. This small and quirky town is full of art, with a heavy dose of spirituality. Known by many as a “power spot”, the area has drawn some of the best-known spiritual guides and healers. Just wait until you witness the entire landscape suddenly change color at sunset and then you’ll understand the magic.

Aside from enjoying the town and the people, make sure to leave time for hiking or driving around the area. Sedona is the best place on your journey for simply relaxing while watching the sunset. Luckily you will not have to look far to find a good viewing spot!

Getting off the beaten path: Chiricahua National Monument – Arizona

The long-time home of the Chiricahua Apache Native American Tribes and a favorite place for rock hounds, this area is unlike anything you have ever seen. Rich in Native American history, here you’ll find plenty of wildlife, hiking, and some extremely unique rock formations.

This is also a place to relax and take in the landscape. Start at the famous Massai Point overlook, where you can see the entire park. Make sure to stop by the Erickson Cemetary, the final resting place for Bonita Canyon’s earliest settlers. The exhilarating yet sobering experience of visiting the Chiricahua National Monument is a stop you should not miss.

Road trip from California to Arizona – the nation’s biggest cacti in Saguaro National Park – Arizona

The park is named after the stately saguaro cactus and stretches across 91,327 acres. Divided into two districts (East and West), the town of Tucson sits right in the middle. When you visit Saguaro, make sure to leave time to visit both districts, which are roughly 30 miles apart.

While hiking is common, a lot of people bring their bikes to the park to view the awesome scenery. This is a great place to have our camera handy. Aside from the gigantic cacti, you’ll also find plenty of petroglyphs and an abandoned gold mine.

In Conclusion – Road trip from California to Arizona

While this article has covered some of the highlights you can expect if you road trip from California to Arizona, the true joy of the journey will always be the surprises in between. Take the time to watch the sunset, pull over at random viewpoints, talk to the locals, and try new foods. The scenery, wildlife, and culture are sure to capture your heart, no matter what route you take!

Read Next: American Roadtrip Holidays – Welcome to the ultimate guide