The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bakersfield, California to Hurricane, Utah
If you are thinking about hitting the road and embarking on an adventure from Bakersfield, California to Hurricane, Utah, you are in for an exciting experience. The drive takes approximately 10 hours, and the route offers many thrilling experiences that make it worth the journey. One of the most notable halfway points is Baker, CA, where you will be treated to the world's tallest thermometer, which stands at 134 feet tall. Here are some of the best things to do on your road trip.
Explore Zion National Park
One of the most beautiful spots in Utah, Zion National Park is an absolute must-visit for anyone traveling to Hurricane. This park is an adventurer's dream, with its towering rock formations, hikes, and world-famous Angels Landing trail. If you appreciate beautiful natural scenery and love to take stunning photographs, this is certainly the place to be.
Fun Fact: Zion National Park is home to the Narrows, which is the narrowest canyon in the world, measuring less than 20 feet wide at some points.
Marvel at the Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is one of the world's most significant engineering feats, and it's definitely worth taking an hour or two to go see it. The dam provides hydroelectric power to California, Arizona, and Nevada, and it's an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. The view of the Colorado River and Lake Mead is also quite stunning.
Fun Fact: The Hoover Dam took five years to build and was completed in 1936 after thousands of workers spent countless hours carving and excavating the rock.
Visit the Mojave National Preserve
The Mojave National Preserve is a unique and fantastic desert jewel situated between northern Los Angeles and southern Nevada. The preserve is home to miles of sand dunes, unique wildlife, and the famous Kelso Depot. If you enjoy looking at desert landscapes or hiking, this is the perfect spot for you.
Fun Fact: Mojave National Preserve contains Kelso Dunes, which is one of the few places in the world where singing sand dunes exist.
Check Out Calico Ghost Town
Calico Ghost Town is a place where history comes alive. This ghost town located outside of Barstow was a former mining town that thrived during the late 1800s. Visitors can tour the old mining town and see shops, restaurants, and museums.
Fun Fact: Shortly after the mines closed, Walter Knott (founder of Knott's Berry Farm) purchased the Calico Ghost Town, restored it, and then sold it to San Bernardino County.
Take a Tour of Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge
The Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge is located in southwestern Nevada spanning over 24,000 acres. The refuge has over 30 springs and natural wetlands that provide numerous habitats for endangered plants and animals. You can take a tour of the park while watching over 265 bird species flying overhead.
Fun Fact: Ash Meadows Wildlife Refuge holds over 30 species of endemics, including the devil's hole pupfish, a species that scientists believed to be extinct.
In conclusion, the Bakersfield, California to Hurricane, Utah road trip is an amazing journey full of unique and exciting experiences. Along the route, you will discover many hidden gems, including the world's tallest thermometer in Baker, CA. With its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and one-of-a-kind attractions, this road trip provides plenty of unforgettable opportunities to create lasting memories. Safe travels, and enjoy the journey!