Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Anaheim, California to Rexburg, Idaho

There's nothing quite like a road trip: wind in your hair, tunes on the radio, and the freedom of the open road. If you're planning a summer adventure from Anaheim, California to Rexburg, Idaho, you're in for a treat. This route offers an abundance of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unique small towns. Keep reading for our top picks of places to see and things to do along the way.

Pit Stops for the Journey

Before we delve into the main attractions, it's worth noting a few pit stops that are worth making on your road trip. In Anaheim, kick-off your adventure at Disneyland Park, a world-famous wonderland. As you drive north on the I-15 highway, the first stop could be a quick shopping spree at the Barstow Outlets. Grab a burger and fries at the iconic Peggy Sue's 50's Diner, an attraction in its own right. Continue on I-15 N until you hit Salt Lake City, where you can see the largest open pit mine from space. At Bear Lake, make a stop for raspberry shakes, a Utah summer tradition.

Top Places to Visit

1. Zion National Park, Utah

From the picturesque Virgin River winding through Zion Canyon to the towering cliffs of Checkerboard Mesa, Zion National Park is a must-visit. It's easy to get lost in the beauty of the park and its comprehensive system of hiking trails, from the popular Narrows to the less-known Timber Creek Overlook. If you opt for the shuttle service, you'll avoid the stress of driving and find more time to indulge in the park's breathtaking scenery. The park is also an excellent opportunity for bird-watching and spotting some wildlife.

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

As soon as you arrive at the world-famous Yellowstone National Park, you'll see it's like no other place on earth. Packed with geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots, old Faithful is just one of the many highlights. There are several other geysers as well Yellowstone Canyon, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Lamar Valley offer lots of wildlife-watching opportunities. You can also go on one of several popular hikes, take a scenic drive, or even relax at a nearby natural hot spring.

3. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park offers stunning peaks, pristine lakes, and magnificent wildlife. The Tetons are known for being rugged, including the tallest mountain in the range, Grand Teton itself. No visit to the park is complete without the thrill of seeing the park's wildlife, such as grizzly bears, gray wolves, elk, and moose. Experience nature at its finest by hiking the park's many trails, cruising on a boat ride on Jenny Lake, or taking a serene float trip down the Snake River.

4. Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

Named for its otherworldly, lunar-like landscapes, Craters of the Moon National Monument would make an excellent detour to your road trip. The park will transport you to another world with its unworldly scene caused by past volcanic activity. The park's highlights include Lava Cave, a 1,200-foot-long tube formed by a molten river of lava and Devil's Orchard, a cleared area with trees surrounded by a massive lava flow. Don't miss the opportunity to climb 7,000 feet to the Craters of the Moon Wilderness Area for a full view of the desolate terrains below.

5. Bear Lake, Utah/Idaho Border

As you make your way to Rexburg, take a moment to relax at Bear Lake. The lake's freshwater shoreline is 48 miles long and is famous for its turquoise blue waters, often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Rockies." A visit to Bear Lake is incomplete without trying its famous raspberry shakes, a summertime must-have treat in Utah. Bear Lake is also an excellent place for boating, swimming, and hiking around the lake.

Conclusion

That wraps up our guide to the must-visit places to see on your road trip from Anaheim, California, to Rexburg, Idaho. There is no doubt that the US west is overflowing with beautiful natural wonders that make for a great vacation. This itinerary has something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs, and everyone in between. Pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road to unforgettable memories.