The Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between California and Wyoming

If you're looking to embark on a road trip between California and Wyoming, look no further! We've compiled a list of the top five places to visit on your journey, from scenic vistas to quirky attractions.

The Route: California to Wyoming via I-15

Before we dive into the stops, let's take a moment to appreciate the route itself. Driving from California to Wyoming will take you through some incredibly diverse landscapes, from the arid deserts of Southern California to the towering mountains of Utah and Wyoming. One particularly scenic stretch of the journey takes you through Paragonah, UT, located just off I-15. Be sure to take a detour onto I-15 Frontage Rd in Paragonah for stunning views of the surrounding red rocks and mesas.

Now, onto the main event: our top five places to visit on a California-to-Wyoming road trip!

1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

A Natural Gem on the Border

Even if you've never been to Lake Tahoe, you've probably heard of it - and for good reason. This massive freshwater lake straddles the border between California and Nevada, and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing. If you're visiting in the winter, be sure to hit up one of the nearby ski resorts. In summers, you can go paddleboarding, water skiing or swimming in the lake.

2. Zion National Park, Utah

Red Rocks and Canyon Views

Utah is known for its striking natural beauty, and Zion National Park is a prime example. The park is home to towering sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons, and offers a range of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular routes is the Zion Narrows hike, which takes you through a stunning slot canyon that can only be accessed by wading through a river.

3. Devil's Tower National Monument, Wyoming

A Geologic Wonder

Devil's Tower is one of those places that seems almost otherworldly - a massive rock formation that rises 867 feet above the surrounding plains. Scientists believe the tower was formed by the volcanic intrusion of molten rock millions of years ago. Whatever its origins, it's undeniably striking, and well worth a visit. You can hike around the base of the tower, or even try your hand at climbing to the summit if you're an experienced climber.

4. Wall Drug, South Dakota

An Iconic Roadside Attraction

If you're driving through South Dakota, you can't miss Wall Drug. This quirky roadside stop has been a fixture on I-90 since the 1930s, and offers everything from souvenirs to homemade donuts to a "jackalope" statue. It's worth a visit just for the experience of wandering through the maze of shops and attractions, but be prepared for crowds - this place is popular for a reason.

5. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Nature's Wonderland

We couldn't make a list of the top places to visit on a road trip through Wyoming without including Yellowstone. This national park is a natural wonderland, home to geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and of course, plenty of wildlife. Whether you're hiking along one of the park's many trails or simply driving through and stopping at the highlights, you're sure to be blown away by the beauty of Yellowstone. Just be prepared for crowds - it's one of the most popular national parks in the country.

Wrapping Up Your Road Trip

There you have it - our top five places to visit on a road trip between California and Wyoming. Of course, there's plenty more to see along the way, from quirky roadside attractions to historic landmarks to breathtaking mountain views. No matter what your interests, we're sure you'll find something to love on this classic American road trip. So hit the road and start exploring!