The Pacific Coast Highway, a scenic route that stretches along the California coast, offers a unique blend of breathtaking ocean views, charming coastal towns, and vibrant cities. For those seeking an epic adventure, a 7-day road trip from Portland to Los Angeles is an ideal way to experience the best of the West Coast. This journey will take you through stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and exciting cities, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Day 1: Portland to Redwood National and State Parks
The first day of your road trip begins in Portland, Oregon, where you’ll embark on a 430-mile journey to the Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California. The drive takes approximately 7 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops you make along the way. As you enter California, you’ll be struck by the towering coastal redwoods, some of which are over 2,000 years old. Spend the day exploring the parks’ hiking trails, taking in the majestic beauty of these natural wonders. For accommodations, consider staying in the nearby town of Eureka, which offers a range of hotels and bed-and-breakfasts.
Exploring the Redwoods
The Redwood National and State Parks are home to some of the world’s tallest trees, including the coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). The parks offer a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day backpacking trips. Be sure to visit the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through a stunning stand of old-growth redwoods. As you hike, keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife, including black-tailed deer, mountain lions, and marbled murrelets.
| Park Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Del Norte and Humboldt Counties, California |
| Size | 112,512 acres |
| Visitation | Over 400,000 visitors per year |
| Notable Features | Towering coastal redwoods, hiking trails, scenic drives |
Key Points
- The Redwood National and State Parks are home to some of the world's tallest trees, including the coast redwood and giant sequoia.
- The parks offer a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day backpacking trips.
- Be sure to visit the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through a stunning stand of old-growth redwoods.
- The parks are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black-tailed deer, mountain lions, and marbled murrelets.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather.
Day 2-3: Mendocino Coast and Fort Bragg
On the second day of your road trip, head south to the Mendocino Coast, a scenic stretch of coastline known for its rugged beauty and charming towns. Stop in the town of Mendocino, where you can explore the historic downtown area, visit the Mendocino Art Center, and enjoy a meal at one of the town’s many restaurants. From there, continue south to Fort Bragg, a former military outpost that’s now a popular tourist destination. Spend the day exploring the town’s shops and galleries, visiting the Guest House Museum, and taking a stroll along the scenic coastal trail.
Exploring Mendocino and Fort Bragg
The Mendocino Coast is home to a variety of scenic attractions, including the Mendocino Headlands State Park, the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, and the Glass Beach. Be sure to visit the Mendocino Art Center, which features a variety of exhibits and classes, and explore the town’s many shops and galleries. In Fort Bragg, visit the Guest House Museum, which offers a glimpse into the town’s rich history, and take a stroll along the scenic coastal trail, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
| Location Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Mendocino | Population: 894, Elevation: 47 feet |
| Fort Bragg | Population: 7,273, Elevation: 85 feet |
| Mendocino Coast | Length: 100 miles, Notable Features: Scenic coastline, charming towns, historic landmarks |
Day 4-5: San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge
On the fourth day of your road trip, head south to San Francisco, a vibrant and eclectic city that’s known for its Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and steep hills. Spend the day exploring the city’s many attractions, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and the de Young Museum. Be sure to take a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, which offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the city skyline.
Exploring San Francisco
San Francisco is a city that’s full of life and energy, with a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all interests. Visit the famous Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can sample fresh seafood and take a stroll along the pier. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, which offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. And be sure to visit the de Young Museum, which features a variety of exhibits on art, history, and culture.
| San Francisco Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Population | 884,271 |
| Elevation | 150 feet |
| Notable Features | Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, steep hills, vibrant neighborhoods |
Day 6-7: Monterey and Big Sur
On the sixth day of your road trip, head south to Monterey, a charming coastal town that’s known for its seafood, golf courses, and scenic beauty. Spend the day exploring the town’s many attractions, including Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the 17-Mile Drive. From there, continue south to Big Sur, a scenic stretch of coastline that’s known for its rugged beauty and stunning views. Spend the day hiking, camping, or simply taking in the views, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonderland.
Exploring Monterey and Big Sur
Monterey is a town that’s steeped in history and natural beauty, with a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all interests. Visit the famous Cannery Row, which was made famous by John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name. Explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life, including sea otters, sharks, and sea turtles. And be sure to take a drive along the 17-Mile Drive, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. In Big Sur, hike the scenic trails, camp under the stars, or simply take in the views, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural wonderland.
| Monterey and Big Sur Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Monterey | Population: 28,696, Elevation: 26 feet |
| Big Sur | Length: 90 miles, Notable Features: Scenic coastline, rugged beauty, stunning views |
| 17-Mile Drive | Length: 17 miles, Notable Features: Scenic views, famous golf courses, historic landmarks |