My third road trip as a traveling hand therapist was from Santa Cruz, California, to Salt Lake City, Utah. I took a round-a-bout way to get there in the heart of winter to see friends and family along the way, as well as a few spectacular national parks.
One of my all-time favorite national parks, this was the first “wow” moment I’ve ever had when it comes to thinking land is beautiful. I visited Bryce Canyon before when I was 11 years old and have never forgotten the feeling of seeing the contrasting-colored white snow on the tall and skinny bright orange/red rocks, and wondering how such “hoo-doo” structures exist in the world. I drove through here on my third road trip in the heart of winter, from Santa Cruz, California to Salt Lake City, Utah. I also visited multiple times while I was living in Salt Lake City!
While Redwood trees are the tallest trees in the world, Sequoia trees are the largest mass of trees in the world. It is quite hard to comprehend just how large they are until you get up close and personal with them on the Congress Trail.
Since I can remember, Lake Tahoe has been on my bucket list! I envisioned going here in the summer because tire chains are recommended during the winter months. However, I got there safe and sound in January 2023 with my 4-wheel drive Jeep Cherokee and totally enjoyed being flanked by snow banks piled up on the sides of the road while heading there. I met up with one of my friends' daughters who lives in South Lake Tahoe, and she gave me the locals’ insight. You won’t want to miss some of these food suggestions in the “Where to Eat” section.
When asking my patients, coworkers, and landlords the #1 thing to do in Santa Cruz, the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Henry Cowell State Park was frequently mentioned. This state park is just north of Santa Cruz in a small town called Felton. You will enter this park, pay the entrance fee (bring cash!) and park in the parking lot near the visitors center. This breathtaking, 1 mile easy loop trail highlights the tallest trees in the world.
The grandeur of Yosemite is showcased throughout many parts of the park. The most iconic moments are in Yosemite Valley. Everywhere you look is a “wow” moment. However each of the sections gives you a different feel of the park. Tuolomne Meadows provides more leisurely, sprawling adventures, whilst Yosemite Valley is the more thrilling moments most people are looking for.
A drive-through mini town on what the locals call “Highway One,” Davenport is great for a stopping point for food or if you are wanting to relax or surf by the jaw-dropping beach cliffside. Drive about an hour north to Half Moon Bay, which is a bigger small-town that has a main street with lots of shops and places to eat. In between are several breathtaking moments that you won’t want to miss!
One of the most popular destinations on the west coast, this southern-Italy style scenic beach is small, with lots of cutesy beach shops and restaurants right up to the sand.
The beautiful, quaint, artistic town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for many reasons. The famous people who live here, the gorgeous homes along the streets, the delicious food, scenic Carmel Beach, and tons of shops. I also visited a vineyard close to downtown Carmel because “when in central California…” ;-)
Point Lobos State Park in Santa Cruz County is my landlords’ favorite state park in the region. After visiting, I can concur that it truly is a special place! I got a private tour with a state park ranger who showed us what whale blow holes look like. We counted about 30 blow holes in the time we were at the park! Typically there are other sea creatures there as well but we did not spot any others. The views of Big Sur were astounding from this South Shore Trail.
I am lucky enough to call Salt Lake City my home for 6 months! This town is known for having an international airport in town, and the most incredible skiing mountains in the world just a short drive away. There are a few other noteworthy spots to see in this picturesque city.