Road Trip: From Brownlee Park, Michigan to Gardena, California
Are you ready for an epic road trip from Brownlee Park, Michigan to Gardena, California? We’ve got you covered with multiple routes to choose from, each offering different sights and experiences. Whether you’re aiming for speed or taking it slow, here are some great scenic routes to consider, along with estimated driving times.
The Southern Route: Through Texas
Distance: 2014 miles Travel time: approximately 32 hours
The southern route will take you through some of America's most iconic states. You'll drive through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. You'll see the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the impressive Texas state capitol building in Austin.
Once you reach Texas, you have the option to take I-10 or I-20 to reach California. I-10 is the more direct route that brings you through Arizona, but the landscape is less scenic than the I-20 route that goes through Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Northern Route: Through the Rocky Mountains
Distance: 2288 miles Travel time: approximately 38 hours
The northern route will take you through the heart of America and offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. You’ll drive through Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah and Nevada.
If you’re looking for stunning landscapes and a chance to explore some National Parks, the northern route is your best option. Stop and visit Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Moab, Utah and Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
The Coastal Route: Through the Pacific Ocean
Distance: 2842 miles Travel time: approximately 44 hours
The Coastal route starts by heading west from Brownlee Park, Michigan, to the Pacific Ocean, then along the coast to Gardena, California. This route will lead you on a journey filled with coastal views and sea breezes.
Start by exploring the Great Lakes, then venture through Chicago, Illinois, and into Wisconsin, where you’ll find yourself driving along the Michigan shoreline. Once you hit Minnesota, your journey will continue through the Dakotas before reaching Seattle, Washington, where you’ll begin your coastal drive with stops in San Francisco and Los Angeles along the way.
Road Trip Tips
No matter which route you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable road trip. Here are a few tips to make the most of your journey:
- Plan ahead: Make sure to map out your route and research all the fun stops and attractions you want to check out before you set out on your adventure.
- Bring snacks: Long road trips can be brutal on an empty stomach. Keep some healthy snacks on hand for when you need a quick boost of energy. Dried fruit, nuts, and granola bars are great options.
- Be flexible: Road trips are all about the journey, not just the destination. Be open to changing plans and taking spontaneous detours if something interesting catches your eye.
With these tips in mind, you’re more than ready to set off on your road trip from Brownlee Park, Michigan to Gardena, California. Happy travels!