Road Trip from Anaheim to Albuquerque: A Journey of Exploration

Are you ready for an adventure? Anaheim to Albuquerque may not sound like the most exciting road trip, but it can be full of surprises. The drive is around 850 miles, which seems manageable, but there are different routes to consider. Let's explore the options and make the most of the journey.

Route 1: I-40 W

The most direct route is to take I-40 W, which covers about 840 miles. The drive time is around 12-13 hours, depending on traffic and how many stops you take. You'll be driving through Arizona and passing by cities like Flagstaff and Winslow. If you're a fan of The Eagles, you might want to stop in Winslow and take a photo "standing on a corner."

The drive through Arizona can be breathtaking, with views of red rocks and canyons. If you have time, consider visiting the Petrified Forest National Park. It's a unique experience to see the fossils of ancient trees turned to stone.

Route 2: I-10 W and I-25 N

Another option is to take I-10 W and then I-25 N. This route covers around 970 miles and takes around 15-16 hours. The advantage of this route is that you get to drive through New Mexico and see some of its beauty.

Consider stopping in Las Cruces and exploring the Old Mesilla Village. It's a charming historic district with adobe buildings, local artisans, and restaurants serving traditional New Mexican cuisine. If you're a history buff, you might want to visit the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.

Route 3: Pacific Coast Highway and I-5 N

If you have more time and want to take a scenic route, you can take the Pacific Coast Highway and then I-5 N. This route is around 1,200 miles and takes about 20-21 hours. But, it can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience to drive along the coast of California and Oregon.

There are several places to stop along the way, like Santa Barbara, Monterey, and San Francisco. Consider visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, or Muir Woods National Monument. Once you reach Oregon, you can take a detour to Crater Lake National Park, which offers stunning views of a deep blue lake in a volcanic basin.

Final Thoughts

Whatever route you choose, make sure you plan ahead and take breaks every few hours to rest, eat, and stretch your legs. It's important to be safe and avoid driving when you're tired.

Remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes along the way. You might discover hidden gems that you wouldn't have seen otherwise. Happy travels!