The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Boise, Idaho and Milpitas, California

Boise, Idaho, and Milpitas, California are two cities that are separated by 730 miles of highway. The drive can take upwards of 12 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way. However, with some planning ahead, the journey becomes a fun and exciting road trip that features natural wonders, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities. One of the midpoint highlights is the town of Lovelock, NV, where travellers can visit the Lovers Lock Plaza and add their own padlock to the love wall. From there, the following five activities are the must-sees on a road trip from Boise to Milpitas:

1. Visit the Craters of the Moon National Monument

Located in central Idaho, Craters of the Moon is a unique landscape that resembles the surface of the moon with its volcanic rock formations that erupted from the Earth's fissures. The area remains geologically active and offers visitors a chance to hike, camp, and explore lava tubes. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, astronomy, and natural history.

Did you know? The Craters of the Moon is the largest volcanic formation on the Snake River Plain.

2. Stop at the Shoshone Falls

Often referred to as the 'Niagara of the West', the Shoshone Falls is a majestic waterfall that plunges 212 feet into the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls, Idaho. The falls offer an incredible view from the overlook and ample opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and fishing. It is especially beautiful during spring when the snow melts and the water levels peak.

Did you know? The Shoshone Falls has more water than the Niagara Falls, but it is not as wide.

3. Explore the Hoover Dam

Standing at the border of Nevada and Arizona, the Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that continues to amaze visitors with its size, history, and significance. The dam provides hydroelectricity to the region, prevents flooding, and creates the Lake Mead reservoir, the largest man-made reservoir in the United States. The dam offers guided tours, a visitor center, and a museum that showcase its construction and operation.

Did you know? The Hoover Dam was built during the Great Depression and provided jobs to thousands of workers.

4. Take a Walk on the Golden Gate Bridge

No road trip to Milpitas is complete without a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge, the iconic suspension bridge that connects San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge is an engineering wonder, a symbol of California, and a popular site for photos, walks, biking, and even weddings. Visitors can access the bridge from several lookout points or take a guided tour.

Did you know? The Golden Gate Bridge is painted in a unique orange-red color called international orange.

5. Visit the Winchester Mystery House

Located in San Jose, California, the Winchester Mystery House is an eccentric mansion that was built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of William Winchester, the owner of the Winchester rifle company. The house has over 160 rooms, many of which have odd designs, architectural features, and hidden staircases. It is said that Sarah built the house to appease the spirits of those killed by the Winchester rifles.

Did you know? The Winchester Mystery House has a staircase that leads to a ceiling, a door that opens to a two-story drop, and a hall of doors that open to walls.

In conclusion, the road trip from Boise, Idaho, to Milpitas, California, is a journey that offers some of the greatest natural, historical, and cultural attractions of the western United States. With proper planning, travellers can enjoy the stops, sights, and activities that make the trip an unforgettable experience. The route takes approximately 12 hours, excluding stops, but the memories will last a lifetime.