PDF file for printing California Road Trip
Here’s a detailed California itinerary following the historic US Route 6 from Long Beach to the Nevada border, blending scenic drives, small-town charm, historical context, and Route 6 heritage:
Historic US Route 6 Itinerary – California Segment
Route: Long Beach to Nevada Border (near Benton)
Distance: Approx. 400 miles
Suggested Duration: 3–4 days
Day 1: Long Beach to Palmdale (~90 miles)
Highlights:
- Long Beach – Starting Point
- Historic Note: US Route 6 originally ended here before being truncated in 1964.
- Things to See: Shoreline Village, RMS Queen Mary, and the historic US 6 terminus plaque.
- Compton/Inglewood (Route 6 path via Alameda St & Redondo Beach Blvd)
- Follow the original alignment as much as possible.
- Great areas for urban Route 6 sign photography (if posted).
- Los Angeles to Pasadena via Figueroa St & Colorado Blvd (Historic Route)
- Visit Colorado Street Bridge and Route 66/6 Convergence Zones.
- Glendora – Azusa Canyon Drive (into the foothills)
- Scenic drive as you start ascending toward the Antelope Valley.
- Palmdale
- Overnight Stop: Explore Joe Davies Heritage Airpark and Route 6 context at Palmdale’s Transportation History Exhibit.
Day 2: Palmdale to Bishop (~200 miles)
Highlights:
- Lancaster
- Seasonal: Visit the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve (spring bloom).
- Historic Stop: Western Hotel Museum (built 1886).
- Rosamond → Mojave
- Follow Sierra Highway (Old US 6).
- Mojave Air & Space Port – Aerospace history along the way.
- Red Rock Canyon State Park (near Cantil)
- Striking desert cliffs and hiking trails. Great roadside stop.
- Inyokern → Ridgecrest
- Route 6 bypassed Ridgecrest but came close – optional detour for supplies or lodging.
- Olancha to Lone Pine
- ⛰ Gateway to Mount Whitney and Alabama Hills filming locations.
- Bishop
- Overnight Stop: Historic Route 6 town with small-town charm, murals, and local eats.
- Don’t miss Laws Railroad Museum for old-west rail + Route 6 heritage.
Day 3: Bishop to Nevada Border (~110 miles)
Highlights:
- Chalfant Valley → Benton
- Explore local artisan shops and ranch lands.
- Benton Hot Springs (Optional overnight or stop)
- Historic mining town with relaxing hot springs – perfect end to California stretch.
- Nevada State Line (near Montgomery Pass)
- Cross into Nevada on Historic US 6 heading toward Tonopah.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Detour to Death Valley from Olancha (add a day).
- Extend the route through Tonopah, NV continuing on Historic US 6 eastward.
✅ Tips for Travelers:
- Watch for US Route 6 signs – some areas retain historical signage.
- Document your journey for the US Route 6 Tourist Association archives.
- Check road conditions, especially in winter near Sierra passes.