Ghost Towns Road Trip Itinerary
Take a journey through the past on the Ghost Towns Road Trip! Beginning in San Francisco and ending in Los Angeles, this 1881 km journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting ghost towns in the United States. Start with Shasta, a former gold mining camp, then travel to North Bloomfield, a site of an old hydraulic mining town. Next, visit Bodie, a town that has been frozen in time since the late 1800s, then take a stop in Trona, a former Borax mining town. Finally, end your journey in Calico, a former silver mining town.
The best time to take this road trip is in the spring or summer when the temperatures are mild and the roads are clear. Along the way, you will be greeted with stunning landscapes and excellent road conditions. However, be aware that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur and some roads may be curvy.
This road trip provides a unique experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a high budget. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on the Ghost Towns Road Trip!
12
number of days
1,881 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
San Francisco
Distance 1,881 km
Driving time 23.1 h
Pace: fast
564.4 kWh
Airports
SFO
[detailsContainer]
San Francisco is a great starting point for the Ghost Towns Road Trip. With its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, beautiful waterfront and amazing views of the bay, it's sure to make your trip unforgettable. The international airport closest to San Francisco is the San Francisco International Airport (IATA code: SFO) and car rentals are available there.
Once you have your car, you can start exploring the city. Don't miss out on walking the Golden Gate Bridge, taking a ride on the cable cars, and visiting Alcatraz Island. There are also a number of unique museums and attractions in the city, such as the Cable Car Museum, the De Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences.
If you're looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems in San Francisco as well. Take a stroll through the Mission District for some of the city's best street art, or visit the Haas-Lilienthal House for a glimpse of the city's Victorian past.
No matter what you choose to do, San Francisco is sure to be the perfect starting point for your Ghost Towns Road Trip.
1
San Francisco
- Shasta
Distance 377 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: fast
113.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the San Francisco to Shasta road trip! This is one of the most beautiful and interesting road trips you can take in the United States. Starting in San Francisco, you'll drive 234 miles, with a total driving time of fewer than 4 hours. Along the way, you'll be treated to some of the most picturesque landscapes, stunning historical sites, and scenic roads in the country.
You'll start your journey in the vibrant city of San Francisco, full of iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman's Wharf. From there, you'll drive through the picturesque Napa Valley and the rolling hills of the Sacramento Valley. As you make your way to Shasta, you'll be treated to some of the most spectacular views of Mount Shasta, the largest volcano in the Cascade Range.
Once you arrive in Shasta, you'll be able to explore the many natural wonders of the area. You can take a hike up to the top of Mount Shasta, visit the Shasta Dam and the Shasta Lake, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from San Francisco to Shasta!
Shasta - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
2
Shasta
- Grass Valley
Distance 243 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
73.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Shasta to Grass Valley, a journey of 151 miles that will take you less than 3 hours. This route takes you through the beautiful Redding, and you'll be able to explore the best of all three locations.
Start your journey in Shasta, a city surrounded by breathtaking nature. Here, you can explore the Shasta State Historic Park, the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, and the Shasta Dam.
Next, you'll drive through Redding, the largest city in the region. Here, you'll find a variety of attractions, including the Sundial Bridge, the Turtle Bay Museum, and the Waterworks Park.
Finally, you'll arrive in Grass Valley, a city known for its rich history and natural beauty. Here, you can explore the Empire Mine State Historic Park, the Grass Valley Museum, and the Nevada County Fairgrounds.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, hop in your car and start your journey!
Grass Valley - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Grass Valley
- North Bloomfield
Distance 53 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
13.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through the Sierra Nevada foothills? Start your adventure in Grass Valley and head towards Empire Mine State Park, where you can explore the ruins of the oldest, largest, and richest gold mine in California. Continue your journey through the stunning Nevada City, a charming, historic Gold Rush town. Finally, end your trip in North Bloomfield, a small town with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The total distance of this road trip is 33 miles, and it will take you less than an hour to complete.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the scenic roads that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes the Sierra Nevada has to offer. Visit Empire Mine State Park to explore the historic gold mine and take a walk through the scenic grounds. Nevada City is full of historic buildings, unique shops and restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. North Bloomfield is a great place to go hiking, fishing, and camping.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip through the Sierra Nevada foothills!
North Bloomfield - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
4
North Bloomfield
- Carson City
Distance 201 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
60.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 125mi journey through the beautiful scenery of North Bloomfield, United States to Lake Tahoe and Carson City! With fewer than 3 hours of driving time, this road trip is perfect for a short getaway. Get ready to be mesmerized by the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the opportunity to explore the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe. As you drive, keep an eye out for the steep ramps and winding roads. Some sections may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the route before you go. Don't forget to stop and take in the breathtaking views of the lake, the mountains, and the lush forests. For a longer trip, you can explore the nearby towns, where you can find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. For more information about attractions, restaurants, and other activities, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Carson City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Vikipedija
❯
❮
5
Carson City
- Bodie
Distance 164 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
49.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Ready for a fun and exciting road trip? Start your journey in Carson City, United States, and make your way to Bodie, a 102mi drive that will take you less than 3 hours. As you make your way to Bodie, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and scenic roads. You'll be sure to find plenty of things to do in Carson City and Bodie, from visiting the Nevada State Museum and the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Carson City to exploring the Bodie State Historic Park, a preserved ghost town from the 1800s. You can also stop by the Genoa Courthouse Museum, the oldest courthouse in Nevada, and the Genoa Bar, the oldest bar in Nevada. And don't forget to take a walk through the Genoa Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in Nevada. With so much to see and do, you'll never be bored on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Bodie - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
6
Bodie
- Bishop
Distance 142 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
42.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from the historic gold-mining town of Bodie to the picturesque town of Bishop! The 88 mile drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll be able to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. As you drive, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the Owens Valley and the White Mountains, and keep an eye out for the occasional wild mustang!
Once you arrive in Bodie, take a step back in time and explore the well-preserved buildings from the town's gold-mining heyday. You can also visit the Bodie State Historic Park to learn about the town's history and take a stroll around the grounds. From Bodie, make your way to Bishop, where you can explore its charming downtown area, take a walk along the Owens River, or visit the Laws Railroad Museum.
No matter what you choose to do, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Happy travels!
Bishop - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
7
Bishop
- Trona
Distance 289 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: fast
86.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for the ultimate road trip adventure? Start your journey in Bishop, United States and make your way to Ballarat and then to Trona in a few hours. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to explore some of the most interesting places in these locations. The 179mi drive will take less than 4 hours and you’ll be able to admire the breathtaking views of the scenic road. Make sure to take some pictures!
When you reach Ballarat, take some time to explore the historic sites and monuments. Don’t forget to visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. As you continue your journey to Trona, you can take a break at the Fossil Falls and explore the area.
At the end of your journey, you’ll reach the desert town of Trona. Here, you can explore the nearby attractions such as the Pinnacles, the Trona Pinnacles and the Searles Lake.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. Have a great trip!
Trona - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
8
Trona
- Randsburg
Distance 64 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
19.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Start your journey in Trona, and take a 40mi drive to Randsburg. On your way, you will be presented with some of the most stunning views. From the rolling hills to the desert landscape, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the area. Be sure to keep an eye out for the unique rock formations that line the road.
Once you arrive in Randsburg, you will be able to explore the area's rich mining history. Visit the Randsburg Museum and learn about the town's past. You can also take a stroll through the historic downtown area and admire the old buildings.
This stage of your road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Take some time to admire the scenery and explore the area. For more information about attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Randsburg - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Randsburg - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
9
Randsburg
- Calico
Distance 119 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
35.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a thrilling journey from Randsburg to Calico, a distance of 74 miles that can be covered in fewer than 2 hours. Along the way, you will come across some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for the stunning golden hills and the bright blue skies.
Once you reach Calico, you will be able to explore the old-west ghost town that has been preserved since the late 1800s. Here, you can stroll through the streets and admire the original buildings, including the historic schoolhouse, the Calico Print Shop, and the Calico Saloon.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a ride on the Calico & Odessa Railroad, which is a replica of an old-fashioned steam engine. You can also take a guided tour of the Calico Mine Company, where you can learn about the history of the area's mining operations.
Don't forget to stop at the Calico Ghost Town Campground, where you can camp under the stars and enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the area.
Remember that more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Calico - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
❯
❮
10
Calico
- Los Angeles
Distance 229 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
68.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a memorable road trip from Calico to Los Angeles? This 142mi drive will take you fewer than 3 hours, and you’ll be able to take in some amazing sights along the way.
Your first stop should be in Calico Ghost Town, a former mining town that has been preserved as a living history museum. Explore the old buildings and learn about the town’s history. Then, take a stroll through the surrounding hills and enjoy the spectacular views.
Continue your journey to Los Angeles, and make sure to stop at the San Bernardino National Forest. Here, you can take in the majestic views of the mountains and forests, and explore the trails and campgrounds.
Your last stop should be in Los Angeles. Visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and take a tour of the city’s many attractions. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
Los Angeles
[detailsContainer]
Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is the ultimate destination of the "Ghost Towns Road Trip". Located in the sunny state of California, Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States and home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks. From the Hollywood sign and the Griffith Observatory to the Venice Beach Boardwalk and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles is a must-visit for anyone looking for an unforgettable vacation.
The best way to explore Los Angeles is by car. The city is spread out over 469 square miles, and there's no better way to experience its beauty than by taking a road trip. From the Hollywood Hills to the Santa Monica Mountains and the beaches of Malibu, the Los Angeles area is home to some of the best scenic drives in the country.
When you're done exploring, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood for a behind-the-scenes look at movie and TV production, or explore the many museums, galleries, and theaters of the city's vibrant art scene.
For those flying into Los Angeles, the closest international airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). From there, you can rent a car and begin your "Ghost Towns Road Trip" adventure. Whether you're looking for an exciting adventure or just a relaxing getaway, Los Angeles has something for everyone.
Los Angeles - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
Ghost Towns Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
San Francisco
-
End:
Los Angeles
-
Distance:
1,881 km
-
Stay:
12 days
-
Getting there:
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
-
When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Ghost Towns Road Trip is a captivating odyssey that stretches for 1,881 kilometers (about 1,169 miles) from San Francisco to Los Angeles, offering travelers a fascinating insight into the once-booming, now-forgotten mining towns of the American West.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Shasta: Uncover the remains of a bustling gold rush-era mining camp within the Shasta State Historic Park, where the echoes of the 1850s gold fever still linger.
- North Bloomfield: Step back in time at the Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, the site of one of the largest hydraulic mining operations, and learn about the environmental impact of this mining method.
- Bodie: Stroll through a state of `arrested decay` in Bodie State Historic Park, one of the most well-preserved ghost towns in the United States, with over 100 structures still standing, as they did in the late 1800s.
- Trona: Delve into the history of Borax mining in the Searles Valley, an essential ingredient in many products and famously advertised by the 20 Mule Teams.
- Calico: Immerse yourself in the Old West at Calico Ghost Town, once a thriving silver mining community, now a regional park offering mine tours, gunfight shows, and a glimpse of life in the 1880s.
Best Time to Go:
Spring and fall are the optimal times for this Road Trip, providing mild temperatures and the beauty of seasonal transitions, while avoiding the extreme heat of the desert in summer.
Potential Risks:
- Seasonal Road closures can occur due to snow in higher elevations, particularly in the Sierra Nevada.
- Mountainous terrain and desert landscapes may have curvy and potentially hazardous Roads requiring vigilant driving.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The journey weaves through various terrains from coastal regions to mountain passes and arid deserts, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife.
- Many of these ghost towns are not just abandoned relics but also serve as museums preserving the Wild West heritage.
- The route includes opportunities to engage in activities like gold panning, exploring old mines, and photography.
- Consider a flexible budget to make the most of attractions, dining, accommodations, and unexpected discoveries along the way.
A good choice for:
The Ghost Towns Road Trip is an unforgettable adventure into the heart of America's mining history. It's a journey that not only showcases spectacular natural beauty but also provides a window into the pioneering spirit that shaped the modern nation. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply in search of a unique Road-Tripping experience, this Trip has the potential to enrich your understanding of American heritage and leave you with enduring memories.
-
