With late fall and winter travel plans on the horizon, it’s time to pack your bags, put the family in the car, and hit the road. Some of the best memories come when you’re in the car with the kids singing along to the radio! California is the perfect place to take a long weekend road trip to explore the National Parks, the coastline of Highway 1, the deserts, and the castles. 

Mammoth Lakes

Tucked along the Eastern Sierra Mountains is Mammoth Lake. Whether you’re headed there later this fall to take in the beautiful changing leaves or headed there this winter to ski, there is something for every member of your family! From Helicopter air tours over the mountains or hiking along Heart Lake, Mammoth Lake offers the quintessential mountain town feel! 

The Redwood Forest

Standing at around 250 feet and over 600 years old, the Redwood Forest is a must-see destination during any road trip! Muir Wood National Monument is the last old-growth redwood forest on the planet and is home to the only native salmon run in California. The Sequoia Sempervirens is the tallest and oldest tree on earth. 

Solvang

Known as the ‘Danish Capital of America,’ Solvang is located in the Santa Ynez Valley and offers visitors a chance to step into a European fairytale-like setting. Solvang is full of Danish heritage, which can be seen in the architecture, thatched roofs, and windmills. Solvang is home to vineyards, fantastic restaurants, tasting rooms, and boutique hotels.

Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead is perfectly positioned in the San Bernardino National Forest mountains and is an excellent escape from the big city life for Californians. Whether you are looking for a complete return to nature through hiking, water sports, and in the winter snow skiing, or you’re looking to relax for the weekend, Lake Arrowhead is the perfect destination regardless of the season! 

Ojai

Set in the Topatopa Mountains north of Los Angeles, Ojai is a quick road trip that leaves the city in the rearview mirror! Whether you are looking for the perfect place for the kids just to run around and enjoy the outdoors or looking to hop on a bike and ride for miles, Ojai is the perfect weekend getaway. Don’t forget to visit the town center to browse the local galleries, shop in the local boutiques, and eat in the local restaurants.

What’s your favorite California road trip getaway?