Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canyonville, Oregon to Palm Desert, California

Are you planning a road trip from Canyonville, Oregon to Palm Desert, California? This scenic drive can take up to 12 hours, but it is worth every minute. As you traverse down the Pacific coast, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring views, diverse landscapes, and unparalleled natural beauty. While the route may seem too long and tedious, you will be pleasantly surprised by the unexpected gems that you will come across. Here are the top five must-visit places to stop on the way that you won't find in the usual tourist brochures.

1. Westley, CA (Halfway Point)

Westley, California is exactly halfway between Canyonville, Oregon, and Palm Desert, California. This unassuming town has plenty of surprises in store for you, despite being just a rest stop for most travelers. The town is home to the Westley Hotel, built-in 1924 and is still in operation, and their restaurant is a must-visit spot. They serve up some of the best cinnamon rolls and milkshakes in the area - the perfect comfort food to keep you energized for the second half of your road trip.

2. Klamath, CA (90-minute drive from Canyonville)

Not far from the Oregon-California border, lies Klamath, home of Trees of Mystery, a nature park filled with spectacular trails and magnificent redwood trees. Trek through forest trails adorned with giant redwoods, and don't forget to visit the breathtaking Sky Trail. Plan to have lunch at the Forest Cafe - their burgers are out of this world.

3. Eureka, CA (2 hours 30 minutes drive from Canyonville)

Located on the Humboldt Bay, Eureka is a former Victorian port city with a vibrant art scene. Visit the Old Town district, a preserved collection of 19th-century houses, shops, and galleries. The Carson Mansion is a must-see experience with its 2000 panes of stain-glassed windows and its Gothic-style architecture. For dinner, head to Brick and Fire Bistro, where you will find some of the best wood-fired pizzas.

4. Guerneville, CA (1 hour 45 minutes drive from Eureka)

As you continue down the coast, take some time to enjoy the small town charm of Guerneville. Here, you will find the Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve with over 805 acres of preserved coastal redwoods - some of the tallest trees in the world. Feed your appetite with the famous house-smoked BBQ at Big Bottom Market - their biscuits have been featured in the Oprah Winfrey network!

5. Solvang, CA (2 hours 30 minutes drive from Guerneville)

Solvang is the perfect last stop en route to Palm Desert - a quaint Danish village filled with Scandinavian architecture and culture. Visit the Ostrich Land USA, an outdoor park where you can feed and interact with live ostriches. For lunch, head to the Succulent Cafe, a unique eatery that serves up delicious Californian sandwiches and salads.

Don't Miss Out on This Incredible Road Trip!

It's time to embark on an unforgettable road trip filled with natural wonders, cultural heritage and fantastic cuisine. Whether you are exploring the redwood forests, strolling through a charming village or enjoying a comforting meal, the trip from Cannonville to Palm Desert is worth every mile. So, pack your bags, grab a map, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!