Points of Interest between Ames, Iowa to La Mesa, California

picture of Ames, Iowa

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Ames, Iowa to La Mesa, California

Are you ready for an adventure? Driving from Ames, Iowa to La Mesa, California is an epic road trip that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. From rolling hills and rugged mountains to sprawling deserts and stunning coastline, this journey offers a little bit of everything. To help you make the most of your trip, we've put together a list of the top places to see along the way.

The Great Plains

As you head west from Ames, you'll begin your journey through the Great Plains. This vast expanse of flatlands stretches across the center of the country and is home to some of the most iconic sights in the Midwest.

  1. Badlands National Park - Just a few hours south of Ames, you'll find Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This stunning landscape of dramatic rock formations, deep canyons, and prairie grasslands is a must-see. Be sure to take the Badlands Loop Road, which offers incredible vistas and access to some of the park's best trails.

  2. Mount Rushmore - About an hour south of Badlands National Park, you'll find one of the most famous landmarks in the United States: Mount Rushmore. This massive sculpture features the faces of four U.S. Presidents carved into the side of a mountain. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight, especially when viewed at night when the faces are illuminated.

The Rocky Mountains

As you continue westward, you'll begin your ascent into the Rocky Mountains. This rugged range is home to some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world.

  1. Rocky Mountain National Park - Located in northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. The park is home to snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and endless miles of hiking trails. Be sure to drive the Trail Ridge Road, which takes you above treeline and offers breathtaking views in every direction.

  2. Grand Teton National Park - Just a few hours north of Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll find Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This stunning landscape of craggy peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife is a photographer's dream. Be sure to take a boat ride on Jenny Lake and hike to Hidden Falls for some of the best views in the park.

The Desert Southwest

As you head further west, the landscape will begin to change dramatically. You'll leave the verdant forests and high peaks behind and enter the dry, rugged terrain of the desert Southwest.

  1. Joshua Tree National Park - Located in southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is a unique landscape of bizarre rock formations, twisted Joshua trees, and stunning vistas. Be sure to take the 18-mile drive through Keys View for one of the best panoramic views in the park, and visit the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunset for some truly stunning photographs.

Conclusion

Driving from Ames, Iowa to La Mesa, California is a long journey, but it's one that's filled with incredible sights and experiences. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good road trip, this journey has something for everyone. Be sure to stop along the way and soak in the beauty of this amazing part of the world. Happy travels!