The 10 Best Backroads In Northern California For A Long Scenic Drive
We’ve all heard it a million times. It’s about the journey, not the destination. It may be a cliche, but there is seriously nothing better than taking the best scenic drives in Northern California with the windows rolled down and the wind in your hair.
Here are our 10 favorite backroads that we can’t get enough of in Northern California. Enjoy the drive!
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Although not all of it is located in Northern California, this route's 557 mile length makes it the longest scenic road on this list. It crosses into the Northern reaches of the Sierra and the Southern Cascades North of Tahoe. You will be driving around with your jaw hanging loose because of the incredible mountain views to be glimpsed on this route.
Designated by CalTrans as a scenic highway, most of this road has been part of the state highway system since 1933. It passes through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest as well as the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, so you know it's bound to be beautiful.
This route extends north past the Oregon border, but it's well worth taking your time on the California stretch. It begins off Highway 101 northeast of Crescent City and offers unparalleled views of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
Running east-west, Highway 36 is a great route to take to see the best of Northern California from Susanville to Humboldt County. Highlights along this route include the Mad River andTrinity National Forest. It's officially eligible to become a CalTrans scenic highway, although no designation has been bestowed on it yet.
This scenic alpine drive features a long and winding road popular only among those who like to get out in the mountains and away from it all. Spanning from the Lake Tahoe region all the way to Lassen Volcanic National Park and beyond, this long highway will take you to some of the most jaw dropping scenery in Northern California.
6. California State Route 49 — the Gold Country Highway
Named for the 49ers that headed out west for the Gold Rush, Highway 49 runs North-South through gold country. It features long stretches without any large towns, historic mining communities, and beautiful views of the gold laden rivers of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. It's definitely a drive worth savoring.
Part of SR 299 is the Trinity Scenic Byway, a National Forest Scenic Byway. It runs across the northern part of California from Arcata all the way to Nevada. It's a historic route and in many places, especially in Trinity County, the old roadway can be seen beside the new.
8. California State Route 70/ Feather River Scenic Byway.
This scenic highway follows the Feather River and connects Sacramento and surrounding areas with U.S. Route 395. The Feather River Scenic Byway parallels the Western Pacific Railroad's Feather River Route up through the breathtaking and curvy canyon. You'll notice a ton of granite boulders interspersed throughout the rushing white water river. It's lovely.
This historic high mountain pass over the Sierra Nevada is located in Alpine County, the least populated county in California. It was named after John Ebbetts and is a registered as a California Historical Landmark. The famous Pacific Crest Trail makes it way through this alpine setting, which is as remote as it is beautiful.
10. California State Route 273, Redding to Anderson
This Shasta County state highway was once part of historic Route 99. It parallels Interstate 5 and offers a glimpse into small towns in Northern California. One of the shortest routes on this list, it's a great alternative road through the region.
What did you think of this list of some of the best scenic drives in Northern California? Would you add any roads or byways to this list if you could? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Can’t get enough of the Northern California landscape? Swing by our best historical landmarks for views you won’t be able to resist.
What are the best roadside attractions in Northern California?
When you’re driving through NorCal, you just might spot a few things that strike you as odd. After all, the region encompasses the state’s uppermost 48 counties! Along the way, you’ll find all sorts of incredible natural features and landscapes in the area that will knock your socks off. You’ll also spot some oddities that will make you do a double take. The weirdest roadside attractions in Northern California include a giant olive, a giant Coca-Cola cup, and a huge yoyo. Everything’s bigger in Texas? Try California.
Are there any other scenic backroads to drive along in Northern California?
Scenic backroads in Norther California are just part of daily life, quite frankly. Though this region of the state houses more than 15 million residents, there’s all sorts of beauty and open scenery spanning the area. Whether you are exploring a scenic byway or taking a drive to a local landmark like a farm, you are in for a treat. Just remember sunglasses – The Golden State can be truly brilliant.
Are there other similar things to do in Northern California when you have a free afternoon?
The very best things to do in Northern California are, much like this road trip, free… for the most part! You’ll just need a bit of gas and a desire to spend some time getting to know our magnificent landscape. One of the best ways to spend a day is hiking in a park. We have many! Yosemite National Park is arguably our most famous, although you might also enjoy visits to Lassen Volcanic National Park, Death Valley National Park, or even quaint local parks in our cozy suburbs. There is so much to love about this pretty state, and a day spent hiking is an incredible way to take in its magnificence. Just keep on your toes… we have some interesting animals that are both terrifying and surprising to encounter in person.
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at [email protected]
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