California Road Trip Itinerary 2026
Long Beach to the Nevada Border on Historic US Route 6
Historic US Route 6 may be best known for its transcontinental reach, but its California segment offers a surprisingly rich and varied journey. This 2026 itinerary traces the westernmost stretch of the route from the Pacific coast at Long Beach to the Nevada state line, blending classic Americana with desert landscapes, mountain history, and wide-open skies.
Starting Point: Long Beach, California
Why it matters
Long Beach marks the western terminus of Historic US Route 6, where the road meets the Pacific Ocean. It is the symbolic “end of the road” for travelers who follow Route 6 across the country.
Recommended activities
- Visit the waterfront and Shoreline Village
- Photograph the western terminus area and nearby harbor scenes
- Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading inland
Shoreline Village is a charming, Cape Cod-style waterfront destination in Long Beach, California, featuring unique shops, diverse restaurants, and family-friendly activities like an antique carousel, bike rentals, and harbor cruises, all overlooking Rainbow Harbor for daytime fun and romantic evenings. It’s a popular spot near the Queen Mary and cruise port, offering casual eats to fine dining, with convenient access via the free Passport shuttle to downtown Long Beach.
Tip
Start early to avoid urban traffic and to give yourself a full day for the desert drive ahead.
Inland Transition: Southern California to Owens Valley
Approx. 250 miles | 5–6 hours total driving (spread over 1–2 days)
After leaving the coast, Route 6 gradually transitions from metropolitan Southern California into high desert and mountain terrain. This is where the road begins to feel timeless.
Key Stop: Bishop, California
Location
Bishop, in the heart of Owens Valley, framed by the Sierra Nevada to the west and the White Mountains to the east.
Recommended activities
- Walk through downtown Bishop and visit local bakeries and cafes
- Explore nearby hot springs
- Use Bishop as a base for short scenic drives
Distance from Long Beach
Approx. 270 miles
Tip
Fuel up here. Services become more limited as you head north.
Natural Highlight: Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Why it’s special
Home to some of the oldest living trees on Earth, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest offers a humbling look at deep natural history.
Recommended activities
- Short hikes among the ancient pines
- Scenic overlooks of Owens Valley
- Photography, especially in late afternoon light
Distance from Bishop
Approx. 25 miles (mountain road)
Tip
Pack layers. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly at elevation.
Northern Stop: Mono Lake
Location
The striking Mono Lake sits just west of the Route 6 corridor near the Nevada border.
Recommended activities
- Walk the boardwalk trails around the tufa formations
- Visit the visitor center to learn about conservation history
- Sunset viewing for dramatic color and reflections
Distance from Bishop
Approx. 60 miles
Tip
Sun protection is essential here. The high-altitude sun can be intense year-round.
Final Stretch: Toward the Nevada Border
As Route 6 approaches the state line, traffic thins and the landscape opens up. This quiet stretch underscores the highway’s historic role as a connector between remote communities and western migration routes.
Distance to Nevada border
Approx. 30 miles from Mono Lake area
Travel Tips for 2026 Route 6 Explorers
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the best balance of weather and road access
- What to pack: Water, sun protection, layered clothing, offline maps, and a full tank of gas
- Pace yourself: This is a route meant for exploration, not rushing
- Support local: Small towns along Route 6 rely on travelers—eat local and shop local when possible
Historical and Cultural Significance of US Route 6
Historic US Route 6, also known as the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, once stretched from the Atlantic to the Pacific, making it the longest continuous highway in the United States. In California, it served as a vital link for commerce, military travel, and westward exploration. Traveling this route today is a way to experience a living piece of American transportation history.
Closing Perspective
The California segment of Historic US Route 6 offers a powerful contrast from oceanfront cityscapes to silent desert valleys and ancient mountain forests. For 2026 travelers, this itinerary provides not just a road trip, but a chance to slow down, reflect, and experience the enduring spirit of one of America’s most storied highways.
