Explore California’s Historic Route 6 – Map Your Adventure
Once known as the “Grand Army of the Republic Highway,” US Route 6 once stretched from Provincetown, Massachusetts to Long Beach, California — earning its place as one of America’s great transcontinental routes. Though its path has changed over time, the California segment still carries travelers through desert landscapes, mountain passes, and historic towns that capture the soul of the American West.
A Journey Through Time
In California, Route 6 cuts across a tapestry of history. Starting near Bishop and winding south through the Owens Valley, it parallels the eastern Sierra Nevada — a land of cinematic backdrops, ghost towns, and geological wonders. Lone Pine offers a look at the iconic Alabama Hills, where generations of Hollywood films were shot. Farther south, the route passes through towns like Lancaster and Palmdale, blending aerospace innovation with classic roadside Americana before ending in Long Beach.
Must-See Stops Along the Way
- Bishop: A welcoming mountain town known for trout fishing, local bakeries, and access to the Sierra high country.
- Lone Pine & the Alabama Hills: Perfect for photography and stargazing — the landscape is both otherworldly and deeply Californian.
- Manzanar National Historic Site: A sobering yet essential visit that preserves the history of Japanese Americans interned during WWII.
- Red Rock Canyon State Park: A visual feast of red cliffs and desert canyons along the drive south.
- Lancaster Museum of Art & History: A cultural gem in the heart of the Antelope Valley.
- Long Beach: The western terminus, where the highway meets the Pacific — a fitting finale for a coast-to-coast journey.
Tips for the Road
Take your time. Route 6 isn’t about how fast you reach the coast — it’s about discovering the unexpected. Keep your camera ready for roadside murals, vintage signs, and wide-open desert views. Stay hydrated, check your vehicle before setting out, and give yourself room for detours; some of the best stories start when you turn off the main road.
Explore the Map — Plan Your Adventure
To make exploring easier, we’ve created a Google Map highlighting key California stops along Historic US Route 6. Each marker includes attractions, local dining, and scenic pull-offs to help you plan a memorable journey.
Click here to open the map and start your California Route 6 adventure.
Whether you’re a history lover, road-trip enthusiast, or simply looking to see a side of California that most travelers miss, Historic Route 6 is your invitation to slow down and explore the real heart of the Golden State.