Road Trip from Charlotte to Bakersfield
Looking for an adventurous road trip that covers the United States from coast to coast? Consider embarking on a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Bakersfield, California, which not only covers some of the most scenic routes in the country, but also over 2,263 miles.
Did you know that the road trip from Charlotte to Bakersfield involves crossing through 10 states, each with its own unique landscapes, diverse cultures and captivating attractions?
Don't miss the halfway point of Ranch Rd 3143, McLean, TX 79057, USA, a small town that features a couple of gas stations and food stops, including a Dairy Queen and a Pizza Hut.
The distance to cover through this road trip is 2,263 miles, which can take approximately 34 hours of driving time.
For an eventful road trip, make sure you visit the following five places:
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit attraction along this road trip, and not just because it straddles the state line between Tennessee and North Carolina. This park is the most visited national park in the US, and it is famous for its scenic drives and hikes. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, deer, and elk. Don't miss the chance to see the park's beautiful waterfalls.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a hike on the Alum Cove Trail to see Alum Cave Bluff, a natural cave that offers breathtaking views.
2. Petrified Forest National Park
Located in Navajo and Apache counties in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park covers an area of over 146 square miles, making it a great park to drive through. Be sure to enjoy the vast expanse of petrified wood, fossils and rock formations that showcase the inherent beauty of this park, which dates as far back as 200 million years ago.
Point of interest recommendation: Stand before the Crystal Forest, an array of multihued petrified wood that create a reflective, colorful forest.
3. Grand Canyon National Park
No road trip across America would be complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. The park is located in the northwest corner of Arizona, and it is over 270 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. The view is truly awe-inspiring, and experiencing it will be an unforgettable moment.
Point of interest recommendation: Join a ranger-led program to learn from an expert about the Grand Canyon geology, history, and culture.
4. Joshua Tree National Park
This park, located in southern California, is a mixture of two distinctive ecosystems: the Mojave and the Colorado Deserts. It is home to unique plants such as the famous Joshua tree, which can only be found here. The park features some of the most unique rock formations, which makes it a popular destination for rock climbers and boulderers.
Point of interest recommendation: Head to Skull Rock, one of the park's top photo opportunities, named after the obvious skull-like rock formation.
5. Golden Gate Park
As you round off your road trip in San Francisco, take some time to explore the largest urban park in the United States, the Golden Gate Park, which features countless attractions within its 1,017 acres area. From the Japanese Tea Garden to live performances, there's a little something for everyone in this park.
Point of interest recommendation: Take a spin on the 1912 Herschell-Spillman Carousel, which offers a vintage ride experience in the middle of the park.
The road trip takes about a week or more, depending on how long you intend to spend on each attraction. Make sure to take enough breaks, stretch your legs, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.
In conclusion, traveling from Charlotte, North Carolina to Bakersfield, California, through the country's heartland, offers a memorable road trip experience that showcases the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and unique attractions in each state along the way.