When it comes to travel research to get inspired or plan your next trip, you are often overwhelmed with the available information, both online and offline. We also provide you with a wealth of valuable information about the most epic Southwest and California road trip.
However, when you catch up with your friends after a trip, they will most likely tell you stories about their highlights or about the things that blew them away most, apart from the typical.
In this article, let us be your friends, while we share with you our top 5 experiences that stuck with us from our Southwest and California campervan road trip. Believe me, we will go beyond the anticipated 'highlights' like the Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon, Big Sur, etc.. Instead we will take you to our hidden gem highlights we had no clue or expectation of before:
- Prescott and its Whiskey Row
- Kayaking the Antelope Creek
- Stumbling over Route 66 in Flagstaff
- Hiking down the Grand Canyon
- Discovering the 17 Mile Drive
1. Prescott and its Whiskey Row
I had not heard or read about Prescott before our trip and discovered it the night before while researching on Google Maps, which route would be best to take to head to Sedona and where to stop on the way. I read something about the old Whiskey Row and the remaining saloons and got intrigued.
Upon arriving in Prescott, we got super excited and started Saloon hopping and discovered all of Whiskey Row. It was a delightful surprise to step back in time and to imagine how life was like back in the Cowboy days. The decor, together with the wardrobe of the bartenders and waiters, definitely keeps the atmosphere alive.
2. Kayaking the Antelope Creek
There is a big hype about the Antelope Canyon, and yes, you should go when you get the chance; however, look beyond the masses and expand on less crowded activities, such as kayaking the Antelope Canyon/Creek. We had booked a combo tour and got to experience the Antelope Canyon from an entirely different perspective. The coolest part was that we got to paddle all the way to the end of the creek, where it basically turns dry and continues inland. It was amazing to think that just 4.5 km / 3 miles south, we had just climbed down the dry part of this super exciting slot canyon and swiveled ourselves through its narrow turns.
3. Stumbling over Route 66 in Flagstaff
We had read before that the small stretch of the 89a between Sedona and Flagstaff is amongst the most scenic stretches. What we were not aware of was that we would cross Route 66. It was another pleasant surprise being welcomed by Route 66 signs and another until then unknown cute town, absolutely worth a visit.
4. Hiking down the Grand Canyon
I know I said you would not get the Grand Canyon as a typical highlight on this list. What must be on this list, though, is the hike down into the Grand Canyon to the Tonto Plateau, from which we got first to hear and then see the gushing Mighty Colorado. Did I expect to hear the rapids of a river from about 400 m / 1,300 ft away? Hell no! Did it leave a lasting impression on me? Hell yes!
That hike with its ever-changing landscape was one to truly remember, and you will hear us talk about it loads!
5. Discovering the 17 Mile Drive
There are lots of hotspots on the Californian Coast, as well as some hidden gems. The 17 Mile Drive in Monterey was one of the latter for us. We only found out about it through some fellow campers chatting at the campfire the night before, and we are thankful that we did! This little stretch of coast simply stands out from the rest and is worth its extra entry fee - mind you it takes you through a private gated community.
That's it - short and sweet!
Be sure to include at least some of these into your road trip adventure through the Southwest and California - we promise you they will spice up your experience!
Are you interested in our entire itinerary, go ahead, grab yourself a coffee, beer or glass of wine and let us take you on a digital road trip:
