The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Barstow, California to El Monte, California
There is no better way to explore California than by taking a road trip. The open roads, scenic views, and the endless possibilities make it a must-try for adventure lovers. One such road trip that you shouldn't miss is the journey from Barstow to El Monte. Located just about 80 miles apart, these destinations offer both urban and rural experiences, and you'll get the chance to explore the vibrant culture of California.
If you're planning to embark on this journey, then read on as we unveil the top places to see when driving from Barstow to El Monte.
Experience California's desert landscape
As you leave the bustling town of Barstow, the first thing that you will notice is the stunning desert landscape. The arid and deserted terrain is a beauty to behold. Here are a few places that you can stop by and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Calico Ghost Town
Just a few miles north of Barstow, is the Calico Ghost Town that has retained the look and feel of an 1880s mining town. You'll get a chance to explore the historic buildings, shops, and museums that showcase the life of miners during the silver rush. Additionally, you can indulge in activities such as gold panning, candle dipping, and explore the narrow streets that will make you feel nostalgic.
Rainbow Basin Natural Area
A little further from Calico Ghost Town is the Rainbow Basin Natural Area. This area is filled with surreal formations carved by nature over thousands of years. The jagged hills, striations, and colorful rocks have made it a popular destination for filmmakers and photographers. It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs and explore California's otherworldly beauty.
Embrace the city life in San Bernardino
About 30 miles from Barstow is San Bernardino. It's a vibrant city that can serve as a fantastic stopover. The city lies in the San Bernardino Valley, surrounded by a stunning mountain range. You can visit various parks, museums, and other attractions. Here are a few highlights of San Bernardino.
San Bernardino National Forest
The forest is home to several natural wonders such as the tallest waterfall in Southern California, the San Gorgonio Wilderness, and several hiking trails. It's a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Original McDonald's Site and Museum
If you're a fan of history, then you must stopover at the Original McDonald's Site and Museum. It's the site of the first McDonald's, which revolutionized the American fast-food industry. You can learn about the history of the franchise and get to see artifacts and memorabilia that chronicled the journey.
Explore the city of El Monte
As you come to the end of the road trip, the last destination is the city of El Monte. This city is located in Los Angeles County and has several attractions that you can visit before capping off your journey. Here are some of the places to see in El Monte.
Whittier Narrows Recreation Area
The recreation area features several activities such as biking, camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. It's also home to a museum and nature center, where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the area.
The American Military Museum
The American Military Museum is among the most extensive military museums in California, featuring exhibits and artifacts from the American Revolution to the present day. You can hop into a tank or explore war planes, jeeps, and other military memorabilia.
Conclusion
The journey from Barstow to El Monte is an excellent way to explore what California has to offer. From the stunning desert landscape, city life, to national parks, and museums, there's something for everyone. With this list of top places to see when driving from Barstow to El Monte, you're sure to have an unforgettable road trip experience. Don't forget to fuel up, pack some snacks, and enjoy the ride.