{"id":9228,"date":"2021-12-09T11:15:55","date_gmt":"2021-12-09T11:15:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/com.sx-magazine-wp.sixt.io\/magazine\/?p=9228"},"modified":"2026-01-19T14:47:10","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T14:47:10","slug":"california","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Most-Scenic Road Trips in California (with maps &amp; tips)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>California is an incredibly diverse state. With mountains, beaches, redwood forests, and cities with a melting pot of different cultures, you\u2019ll want to explore as much as possible. To that end, a road trip in California is the best way to see everything the state has to offer at your own pace. Whether you\u2019re looking for a city destination, a beach getaway or a weekend in the mountains, California truly has it all. So how will you choose a road trip route in this massive state? Here\u2019s a list of the 10 best road trips to take in California.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><a class=\"button small\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/usa\/california\/\">Book California Car Rental<\/a><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#pacific_coast_highway\">Pacific Coast Highway<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#eastern_sierra_scenic_byway\">Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#route_66\">Route 66<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#avenue_of_the_giants\">Avenue of the Giants<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#rim_of_the_world\">Rim of the World Scenic Byway<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#desert_drive\">The Desert Drive<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#northern_california_wine_country\">Northern California Wine Country<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#national_parks\">The National Parks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#mission_trail\">The Mission Trail<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#gold_country\">Gold Country (Highway 49)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#other_road_trips_from_california\">Other road trips from California<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pacific_coast_highway\">1. Pacific Coast Highway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This is probably the most famous road trip in California. The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, stretches 656 miles down the entire coast of California. Start in southern California and give yourself a couple of weeks to leisurely make your way to the northern tip. Along the way, you\u2019ll be treated to incredible views of the Pacific coastline as well as some of California\u2019s most popular city destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/pacific-coast-highway-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9238 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/pacific-coast-highway-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/pacific-coast-highway-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/pacific-coast-highway-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/pacific-coast-highway.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>A stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway near Monterey. Photo: Chris LaBasco on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/evening-along-majestic-pacific-coast-highway-1163694304\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Highway 1 ends in Leggett, California, so you can either end your trip here or continue along Highway 101 further up the coast into Oregon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 35 miles; a 45-minute drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1r1fvnEoMugx8HzbfpZT5XmDE6XImEelt&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"eastern_sierra_scenic_byway\">2. Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This road trip in California is the mountain version of the Pacific Coast Highway. Following the Sierra Nevada Mountains from Lone Pine to South Lake Tahoe, Highway 395 is one of the best trips to take in California if you want to see mountain scenery. This 232-mile road trip will take you through historic gold mining towns, ancient forests and past other historical sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/eastern-sierra-scenic-byway-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9240 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/eastern-sierra-scenic-byway-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/eastern-sierra-scenic-byway-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/eastern-sierra-scenic-byway-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/eastern-sierra-scenic-byway.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>Hot Creek as seen from the Eastern Sierra Scenic Byway. Photo: Cavan-Images on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/hot-creek-keeps-valley-thawed-all-1710060298\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Lone Pine is right between Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park, so give yourself enough time at the beginning of your trip to explore the national parks and the surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 214 miles; a 3.5-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1jYkcLFNeUaVIBv19iO8WeY-mJthmVP3l&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"route_66\">3. Route 66<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s right, the famous Route 66 ends in Santa Monica, so you can hop on here and head as far east as you\u2019d like. The California portion of Route 66 will take you from Santa Monica into Pasadena before plunging you into the San Bernardino National Forest. When you come out the other side you\u2019ll head through historic towns like Daggett and then on through the Mojave Desert. You can choose to end your route here or keep going into Arizona and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/route-66-ca-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9241 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/route-66-ca-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/route-66-ca-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/route-66-ca-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/route-66-ca.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>A portion of Route 66 in California. Photo: MaxyM on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/route-66-california-480404932\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll want to make this a leisurely road trip. There are tons of diners, motels and vintage relics that you\u2019ll want to explore along the California portion of Route 66.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 13 miles; a 20-minute drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1Xs_VM9uc_yda_0fDE6_lj44IeHbxLaqm&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"avenue_of_the_giants\">4. Avenue of the Giants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This 32-mile road trip will take you through some of the most majestic scenery in Northern California. It might be a fairly short stretch of road, but take your time and be sure to get out of the car so you can gaze in awe at the massive redwood trees rising up around you. You\u2019ll also encounter many small towns along the way, so take some time to stop and explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/avenue-of-giants-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9243 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/avenue-of-giants-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/avenue-of-giants-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/avenue-of-giants-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/avenue-of-giants.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>Drive through massive sequoia trees on the Avenue of Giants. Photo: Lucky-photographer on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/driving-through-avenue-giants-sequoia-national-747754831\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll want to visit the California Federation of Women\u2019s Club Groves, where you\u2019ll find a unique fireplace designed by famous architect Julia Morgan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 602 miles; 9.5-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There is a toll on I-580 W. The toll rate varies depending on the amount of traffic during the time you\u2019re using the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1dRNxcT5rDnJr8ssKdGE1M2SO6EiZaKqz&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"rim_of_the_world\">5. Rim of the World Scenic Byway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This 117-mile scenic byway twists and turns in and around the San Bernardino Mountains in southern California. Starting in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/car-rental\/usa\/los-angeles\/\">Los Angeles<\/a>, you\u2019ll travel inland towards the town of Big Bear Lake, passing other small towns along the way. You\u2019ll be in awe at the panoramic views of the mountains during the entire trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/rim-of-world-scenic-byway-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9245 lazyload\" width=\"840\" height=\"440\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/rim-of-world-scenic-byway-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/rim-of-world-scenic-byway-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/rim-of-world-scenic-byway-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/rim-of-world-scenic-byway.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 840px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 840\/440;\" \/><figcaption>A view over San Bernardino from the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. Photo: Andy Konieczny on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/breathtaking-view-san-bernardino-valley-mountains-780686230\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Big Bear Lake might be the highlight of this trip, but you\u2019ll want to make a few stops at some key viewpoints along the way. Make sure Silverwood Lake Overlook, Lake Arrowhead, and Keller Peak Fire Lookout are all on your list of pit stops to make during the drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 91 miles; a 2-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1Yg-3v8JtoaPV4wLsHjh4oPwBTkemiU5t&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"desert_drive\">6. The Desert Drive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This 290-mile road trip goes all the way from sunny San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park. This is one of the best ways to enjoy California\u2019s desert landscape. You\u2019ll pass through meadows of wildflowers, incredible rock formations, canyons, cactus forests, and more. You can explore the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the city of Palm Springs, and Salvation Mountain before heading to Joshua Tree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9247 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>Badlands in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Photo: Sierralara on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/hiker-standing-above-anzaborrego-desert-state-1336986569\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It may not be the most scenic portion of the trip, but the Salton Sea is worth a visit as it\u2019s one of the world\u2019s biggest inland seas. It\u2019s also drying up pretty quickly, making it a unique sight to see.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 124 miles; a 2-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> CA-73 S is a toll road. Cars can expect to pay a little less than $10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=194SDg-zH0ciwB3yWnVsnXO0ecw57bEkw&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"northern_california_wine_country\">7. Northern California Wine Country<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are must-visits when it comes to Northern California. Starting and ending in San Francisco, this road trip will take you in a loop around some of California\u2019s, and the country\u2019s, best vineyards and wineries. Attend all the wine tasting your heart desires and sample the local delicacies that are paired with the wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/sonoma-county-ca-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9249 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/sonoma-county-ca-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/sonoma-county-ca-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/sonoma-county-ca-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/sonoma-county-ca.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>A vineyard in Sonoma County. Photo: Timothy S. Allen on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/green-vineyard-white-wispy-clouds-673632667\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Along the way you may want to stop and check out Vichy Springs, a hot springs resort located conveniently along the route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM SAN FRANCISCO:<\/strong> 386 miles; 6-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> A portion of I-80 W is a toll road. Cars will pay about $6.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1JMmRjKcA9klDSSuDwqGxav3kyw_YECEi&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"national_parks\">8. The National Parks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>California is home to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon national parks &#8211; each worth a visit in its own right. Take a road trip to hit all three, tucked within the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You\u2019ll follow scenic roads in between the parks, taking you by some of the most majestic waterfalls you\u2019ll ever see, as well as mountain peaks and giant redwood trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/kings-canyon-np-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9250 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/kings-canyon-np-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/kings-canyon-np-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/kings-canyon-np-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/kings-canyon-np.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>A hiking trail through Zumwalt Meadows in Kings Canyon NP. Photo: Benny Marty on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/panorama-zumwalt-meadows-hiking-kings-canyon-1788127223\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Be sure not to miss the stretch of road that is Kings Canyon Scenic Byway that\u2019ll take you to Cedar Grove &#8211; it\u2019s one of the most beautiful parts of this road trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 207 miles; 4-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> Generals Highway is a toll road. Tolls can vary. You will also need to pay an entry to fee per car to get into the parks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1fpQPj_lLAfHMs9XWOWogizmcLiJUSTcp&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mission_trail\">9. The California Missions Trail (El Camino Real)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This road trip will take you along the same path the Spanish explorers took after first stepping foot in present-day California. You\u2019ll encounter a large number of California\u2019s original missions, along with diners and cozy inns. There are 21 missions to visit in total, so take your time driving along the trail so you can explore each one in as much detail as you\u2019d like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/san-juan-capistrano-mission-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9251 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/san-juan-capistrano-mission-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/san-juan-capistrano-mission-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/san-juan-capistrano-mission-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/san-juan-capistrano-mission.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>The San Juan Capistrano Mission dates to 1776. Photo: Matt Gush on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/sunset-aerial-view-spanish-colonial-era-1915012402\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The missions are all located a day\u2019s ride on horseback away from each other, so now it\u2019s fairly easy to drive the whole route in about a week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 80 miles; 1.5-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1xqOuNlk6Vtihwn_tUYX-nTgDWc-EVIdj&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"gold_country\">10. Gold Country (Highway 49)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Named after the \u201c49ers\u201d who came to California during the 1849 Gold Rush, this road trip will take you through a historic gold mining area. You\u2019ll learn a lot about the state\u2019s mining history and culture and get to explore some of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, as well. Starting in Oakhurst and ending in Chilcoot-Vinton, this 295-mile road trip takes you through Tahoe National Forest, Columbia State Historic Park, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/downieville-ca-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9252 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/downieville-ca-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/downieville-ca-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/downieville-ca-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/downieville-ca.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption>Downieville sits along the Yuba River on Highway 49. Photo: Hank Shiffman on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterstock.com\/image-photo\/yuba-river-downieville-californias-gold-country-1524056\">Shutterstock<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Pro Tip:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Try your hand at mining at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, one of the main attractions on this California road trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">SIXT Travel Facts:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>DISTANCE FROM LOS ANGELES:<\/strong> 268 miles; 4.5-hour drive<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>TOLLS:<\/strong> There are no tolls along this route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/u\/1\/embed?mid=1GRy1WTTb0sPy_7l8R-rkYl601LVzmdvq&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\" frameborder=\"0\" 0=\"height='450'&gt;&lt;\/iframe\"  src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"other_road_trips_from_california\">11. Other road trips from California<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"654\" data-id=\"541\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/06\/11062018.newyork-featured-1024x654.jpg\" alt=\"New York\" class=\"wp-image-541 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/06\/11062018.newyork-featured-1024x654.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/06\/11062018.newyork-featured-300x192.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/06\/11062018.newyork-featured-768x490.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/06\/11062018.newyork-featured.jpg 1140w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/654;\" \/><figcaption><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california-to-nyc\/\">California to NYC Roadtrip<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"655\" data-id=\"1554\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/10\/chicago-skyline-1024x655.jpg\" alt=\"Chicago\" class=\"wp-image-1554 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/10\/chicago-skyline-1024x655.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/10\/chicago-skyline-300x192.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/10\/chicago-skyline-768x491.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2018\/10\/chicago-skyline.jpg 1140w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/655;\" \/><figcaption><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/chicago-to-california\/\">Chicago to California Roadtrip<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-id=\"8587\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/colorado-springs-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"Colorado\" class=\"wp-image-8587 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/colorado-springs-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/colorado-springs-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/colorado-springs-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/colorado-springs.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/colorado-to-california\/\">Colorado to California Roadtrip<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"537\" data-id=\"8825\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/austin-texas-capitol-1024x537.jpg\" alt=\"Texas\" class=\"wp-image-8825 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/austin-texas-capitol-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/austin-texas-capitol-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/austin-texas-capitol-768x402.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/11\/austin-texas-capitol.jpg 1080w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/537;\" \/><figcaption><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california-to-texas\/\">California to Texas Roadtrip<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on the_content --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on the_content -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>California is an incredibly diverse state. With mountains, beaches, redwood forests, and cities with a melting pot of different cultures, you\u2019ll want to explore as much as possible. To that end, a road trip in California is the best way to see everything the state has to offer at your own pace. Whether you\u2019re looking&#8230;<!-- AddThis Advanced Settings generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><!-- AddThis Share Buttons generic via filter on get_the_excerpt --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":34,"featured_media":9247,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"full-width-content","ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[67],"tags":[28],"class_list":{"0":"post-9228","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-road-trips","8":"tag-roadtrip","9":"entry"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>10 Most Scenic Road Trips in California | SIXT rent a car Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"These 10 road trips show you the geographic diversity California has to offer, whether it&#039;s the ocean, mountains, lush farmland or desert.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"10 Most Scenic Road Trips in California | SIXT rent a car Magazine\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"These 10 road trips show you the geographic diversity California has to offer, whether it&#039;s the ocean, mountains, lush farmland or desert.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"SIXT rent a car Magazine\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-12-09T11:15:55+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-19T14:47:10+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"566\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"10 Most Scenic Road Trips in California | SIXT rent a car Magazine","description":"These 10 road trips show you the geographic diversity California has to offer, whether it's the ocean, mountains, lush farmland or desert.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"10 Most Scenic Road Trips in California | SIXT rent a car Magazine","og_description":"These 10 road trips show you the geographic diversity California has to offer, whether it's the ocean, mountains, lush farmland or desert.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/","og_site_name":"SIXT rent a car Magazine","article_published_time":"2021-12-09T11:15:55+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-01-19T14:47:10+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1080,"height":566,"url":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/sites\/6\/2021\/12\/anza-borrego-state-park.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"","Est. reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/california\/"},"author":{"name":"","@id":""},"headline":"10 Most-Scenic Road Trips in California (with maps &amp; 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