California Roadtrips in Autumn

Southern California’s nearly perfect climate means that you can travel nearly any time of year without worrying about bad weather interrupting your vacation. However, going in the fall rewards you with colorful fall foliage, Halloween magic, and apple picking, among other adventures. The following autumn road trips all begin in Orange County, which means you can start directly at Beach Boulevard of Cars in Huntington Beach, from which the one-way distances are estimated.

Pacific Coast Highway (550 miles)

This classic journey through PCH, aka Highway 1, runs through the beaches of tony Malibu, the vintage architecture of Santa Barbara, and the massive Monterey Bay Aquarium before ending at the magical city of San Francisco. Take your time to enjoy the dramatic cliffs and majestic redwood forests of Big Sur. Before you get going, check road conditions because landslides may close sections of Highway 1.

San Diego (93 miles)

If you don’t have time for a multi-day getaway, a quick trip to San Diego can recharge your life with visits to historic sites, such as the mission at San Juan Capistrano, which has been ministering to the faithful since 177, or the tall ships at Dana Point, which also serves as a jump-off for whale watching. If beaches are more your speed, you can visit the California Surf Museum and historic pier at Oceanside or explore the chic shops and intimate coves of La Jolla.

Joshua Tree (128 miles)

You won’t be taking the quickest way but will enjoy chaparral and desert scenery by heading northeast to San Bernardino to check out the site of the first McDonald’s Restaurant and the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in San Bernardino. Then, travel back to the Old West by visiting the Calico Ghost Town, a restored silver mining town that’s been around since 1881. Finally, you’ll head southeast to visit Joshua Tree National Park, where you’ll wonder at surreal landscapes, gaze at starry night skies, and delight in the sculptural Joshua trees while catching glimpses of tortoises, roadrunners, and iguanas.

Sequoia and King’s Canyon (245 miles)

If trees are your thing, you’ll find plenty towering over you at Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks, which are right next to each other. Marvel at the General Sherman Tree, which is the world’s largest tree by volume at over 52,000 cu. ft., and Moro Rock, a granite dome that offers incredible views. A drive through the 50 miles of Kings Canyon Scenic Byway offers views of stunning scenery that includes Kings River Canyon.

Wine Country (452 miles)

The most extended road trip to Napa Valley could be the most fun, depending on how much of the local production you decide to sample. You can forget about Mother Nature on this trip because it’s all about experiencing the best delights created by humans as you travel to Paso Robles with a rep for wine quality and fine dining that continues to grow, or Calistoga where you can relax in mud baths and hot springs.

With over 400 wineries and 90 tasting rooms in Napa Valley, it’s impossible to single out a few for a visit, given your taste in imbibing differs from everyone else. Instead, check out their official website to get the low-down on what to see, what to wear, and how to enjoy wine. Many will offer tours as part of your visit, but advance reservations are required.