10 Roads With The Best Windshield Views In All Of Southern California
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Angela
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Have you ever just wanted to jump in the car and take a long Sunday drive (even if it’s not Sunday) and explore some of Southern California’s most beautiful scenery from behind the wheel? If you love car trips, gorgeous windshield views, and magnificent scenery that can be enjoyed on a relaxing drive, then you’ll want to check out these 10 roads in SoCal that are picture-perfect every day of the week.
Whether you love forests, deserts, or mountains, The Palm to Pines Scenic Byway offers a variety of magnificent views that will keep you alert behind the wheel. From Palm Desert starting at Hwy 74 and stretching all the way to the Banning Pass on Hwy 243, this 67-mile route is one of SoCal's hidden gems that offers exceptional views.
The Banning-Idyllwild Panoramic Highway, or SR 243, will take you on a 30-mile scenic route through some of the most picturesque parts of Riverside County. Enjoy stunning windshield views of the towering mountains along this rugged road that will show you a new side of SoCal you never even knew existed.
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With beautiful farms and orchards right outside the window, nothing is more beautiful than a drive down Oak Glen Road in the town of Oak Glen. Although fall is pretty spectacular out here, don't wait until autumn to enjoy this scenic drive as it has plenty to offer all year long.
When you need an ocean view to make your day absolutely perfect, you'll want to jump in your car and drive along the Pacific Coast Highway for the most epic coastal view ever. The Pacific Coast Highway stretches along the entire California coast, so if you run out of scenic views along the SoCal portion of PCH, just continue on to Northern California for a longer trip.
The Ortega Highway is one stretch of land you want to take nice and slow so you can safely and leisurely enjoy all the scenery this beautiful route offers. Set along Hwy 74 between Lake Elsinore and San Juan Capistrano, this picturesque drive will introduce you to the beauty of the Cleveland National Forest without ever having to leave your car.
Sometimes all you need is a drive out to the country to completely rejuvenate yourself after a long work week. The drive to Palomar Mountain, along Highway 76, is one sure way to experience the peaceful landscape of Southern California while heading in the direction of total paradise.
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Known for its beautiful forest scenery and vast stretches of rural land the Sunrise Highway, located in San Diego County, offers over thirty miles of windshield views that you can soak up in a single drive.
You may have heard of Rim of the World before, but have you ever experienced this scenic drive for yourself? Located along Hwy 18 and 38, Rim of the World Scenic Byway will treat you to many stunning views of the San Bernardino Mountains. Although you may want to get out and stretch your legs as this is a long drive -- 107 miles to be exact -- you can enjoy the view entirely by car if you so desire.
One of the most well-known roads on this list, California State Route 2 aka Angeles Crest Highway, is also one of the most beautiful. This scenic drive, just under 70 miles, will dazzle you with views of the Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains. You'll definitely want to roll down your windows and breathe in that fresh mountain air as it smells pretty glorious out here.
Although many people love to explore Joshua Tree on foot, there's also a paved route that is perfect for exploring while driving. The Park Blvd Scenic Drive, a heavenly 24-mile route that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car, is one of SoCal's many treasures. Located at the East Entrance Station of Joshua Tree, this leisurely driving route will let you experience the beauty of Joshua Tree without any hiking or walking, so it's perfect for those days when you feel like taking it easy.
Do you have a favorite scenic drive in Southern California? If so, please let us know in the comments where you like to go for a relaxing Sunday drive in SoCal.
If you love experiencing Southern California by car, make sure to check out these 9 road trips that will lead you to the most beautiful places you’ll never forget.
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