The road trip less traveled: California Highway 395

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state and local advisories before scheduling trips. This post was updated May 26, 2020.

With some travel restrictions still in place in California, the closest you’ll likely come to a trip around the Sunshine State right now is planning one. And it’s never too soon for that. Take a look at these gorgeous photos captured along Highway 395 for a little trip inspiration, for when the time is right.

You could drive California’s scenic HWY 1 (like everyone else)…

Or you could do California Highway 395 on the eastern side of the state…

Which would allow you a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Lake Tahoe…

The wild west treasures of the ghost town of Bodie…

Skiing Mammoth Mountain…

A glimpse of the eerie and majestic tufa formations at Mono Lake…

A hike through Yosemite National Park (you’ve heard of that place, right?)

Scenic vistas of the Owens Valley…

A side trip to Death Valley National Park…

And the quirky charms of Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch.

Bottle Tree Ranch | Flickr CC: Kārlis Dambrāns

As the highway ends, swing on down to Palm Springs…

Where you’re only a stone’s throw from Joshua Tree National Park…

The weird splendors of the nearly forgotten Salton Sea…

And the folk art majesty of Salvation Mountain.

Salvation Mountain | Photo courtesy of Jenna Faye

Pretty awesome trip, right?

And here’s how you do it!

If you do follow the coast, check out these recommendations.

Tagged: California