Road Trippin' from Bend, Oregon to Fairfax, California

Are you seeking a memorable road trip experience between Bend, Oregon and Fairfax, California? This article will guide you through several travel options with different routes, distances, and estimated driving times. Get ready to explore breathtaking scenic routes and enjoy excellent destinations along the way!

Option 1: Via I-5 S & US-199 S

The first option is the most direct route from Bend, Oregon, to Fairfax, California. It includes all the main highways: US-20 E, I-5 S, and US-199 S. This route is approximately 509 miles and takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes to reach the destination. There are fewer touristy spots along this route, so make sure to pack your car with enough snacks and drinks to stay energized and hydrated.

Along the way, make a pit stop at the Rogue River Gorge Viewpoint near Union Creek, Oregon, to admire the scenic waterfall and the rocky canyon where the Rogue River flows. Then head to Grant's Pass, Oregon, and visit the Oregon Caves National Monument, where you can explore the cave and enjoy the stunning forested mountain surroundings.

Option 2: Via US-97 S & US-199 S

The second option takes a more scenic route to get to the destination. This route includes US-20 E, US-97 S, and US-199 S. This is the longer route at 594 miles, but the estimated driving time is only about 10 hours. The additional time comes from the winding mountain roads with beautiful views of the green forests and turning hills.

As you travel along this route, take a moment to stop and admire the mesmerizing Crater Lake National Park in Klamath County, Oregon. You can take a boat tour on the calm and clear lake or just breathe in the fresh air and admire the beautiful scenery. Then, further down the road, stop at the Redwood National and State Parks in Del Norte County, California. Here, you can go on a leisurely walk in the dense forests of the towering redwood trees, which can reach up to 300 feet tall.

Option 3: Via CA-299 W & US-101 S

The final option takes you on a drive through the scenic Trinity Mountains and along the beautiful Pacific coastline. This route includes US-97 S, CA-299 W, and US-101 S. This is the longest route at 716 miles, but this trip is all about the journey, not the destination. The estimated driving time is 12 hours and 30 minutes.

Take a quick detour at Happy Camp, California, and see the Klamath River Wildlife Refuge Center, where you can go on guided boat tours and learn about the history of Native American culture and environmental conservation in the area. A little further down the road, stop at the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, and see the colorful glass pieces that cover the shore. These fragments of glass were the result of years of throwing glass bottles into the ocean, and then the tides turning them smooth from the waves.

Final Notes

The estimated drive time of all these routes may vary due to traffic, detours or stops. However, they all provide an excellent opportunity to discover some of the scenic and cultural treasures of Oregon and California. Make sure to bring along a good audio book, some comfortable clothes, and your adventurous spirit to make the most out of your trip.

Now that you have discovered these three great routes, which one will you choose to adventure on?