A half-day drive from Los Angeles can have you communing with cacti in Vegas or catching a breath of fresh air in Joshua Tree National Park. We’ve put together a guide of 7 perfect routes for you to take when you want to escape LA.

Whether you have a few days or a few hours, these destinations deliver relaxation, entertainment, and rejuvenation.

Did you know that

California’s

first vineyard is 300 years old and only one hour from downtown LA? Did you also know that

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With money in your pocket thanks to Jerry, get ready to ditch Los Angeles for the day and head off on one of these road trips!

Palm Springs

Why go to Palm Springs

Palm Springs is the perfect getaway. A one-day road trip allows you to enjoy everything on offer without having to pay exorbitant accommodation fees.

This Los Angeles road trip offers a great combination of activities. Outdoorsy types can hike in the desert, and city bums can browse world-class art before relaxing at a top-quality spa for an afternoon massage.

What to do in Palm Springs

Murray Canyon Trail

: The Murray Canyon Trail is a good spot to stretch your legs when you first arrive. You’ll find plenty of shade thanks to enormous boulders, and the fairly flat trail means less exertion. There is an entrance fee, but the babbling brook and palm tree oasis vibe are worth it.

Where to eat in Palm Springs

Miro's

($$$): If you want to splurge, go to Miro’s for contemporary European dishes in an elegant setting.

Farm

($$): Head to Farm on La Plaza for a more affordable country-chic meal inspired by Provençal cuisine.

Salton Sea and Bombay Beach

Why go to Salton Sea and Bombay Beach

The Salton Sea is

California’s

version of the Dead Sea. Extremely high levels of salt content in the sea mean that most fish can’t survive here—but you can take a dip in its refreshing waters, provided there has been enough inflow that season.

Bombay Beach was a vacation spot in the 1950s and 1960s, and it’s a quirkier beach than you’ll find anywhere in Los Angeles. Only three hours from LA, this off-the-beaten-path destination will transport you to a different world (or era).

What to do in Salton Sea and Bombay Beach

Salvation Mountain

: Salvation Mountain is a giant folk art monument with gorgeous painted illustrations and inspiring quotations.

Slab City: Nearby is Slab City, an off-the-grid commune with Burning Man vibes that is home to creative drifters and squatters.

Bombay Beach Marina

: The Bombay Beach Marina is the place to go for access to the lake, but keep in mind that you won’t find many services nearby.

Pro Tip Make the memories last longer by renting a fun car!

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Mammoth Lakes

Why go to Mammoth Lakes

The route itself is gorgeous enough to justify a road trip to Mammoth Lakes. Take this trip if you want to escape the smog. Catch a glimpse of snow-capped peaks and take in a bit of fresh air at elevation.

Of course, city hikers know that Los Angeles offers plenty of great hikes. But heading to the doorstep of Yosemite and scoping out Mammoth Lakes is a great way to escape the crowds.

What to do in Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Crest Trail

: Turn off your phone and challenge yourself with the Mammoth Crest Trail (7.2 miles), which will earn you a dip in an alpine lake.

Crab Cooker Hot Spring

: If you prefer a lazy day at the hot springs, head to Benton Crossing and go to Crab Cooker Hot Spring.

Where you should eat in Mammoth Lakes

SHEA Schat's Bakery

($): Stop by SHEA Schat’s Bakery on your way out of town for a sheepherder’s loaf.

MORE:

Road trip essentials

Joshua Tree National Park

Why go to Joshua Tree

Can you really say you’re an Angeleno if you’ve never been to Joshua Tree? Take this trip so you can say that you did. This alien desert landscape is the perfect place to escape the city and have a spiritual experience—and it’s only 2 hours away.

What to do at Joshua Tree

Take a hike: Bring plenty of water!

Ryan Mountain

is the most punishing hike in Joshua Tree, whereas

Barker Dam

is a better choice for the casual weekender. Either meditate in nature or sign up for a session at a local retreat center.

World Famous Crochet Museum

: For something a little less natural, head to the World Famous Crochet Museum. This is a great place to go

car camping

, as long as you’re prepared.

Pro Tip California weather can be intense. Be prepared for wildfires and cancellations, and always call ahead to confirm. Be prepared with plenty of extra water and emergency supplies.

San Juan Capistrano

Why go to San Juan Capistrano

This piece of California history is only an hour away from LA. The Catholic Mission was founded in 1776 and the historic district offers plenty of modern activities to entice visitors. Head here if you need a weekend getaway but you’re not a serious outdoor adventurer.

What to do in San Juan Capistrano

The Mission

: Start by walking the historic district and then exploring the Mission. The church’s vineyard produces some excellent Criolla grapes, so don’t leave without sampling their wine.

After a casual afternoon of browsing the galleries, you’ll be relaxed and ready to head home.

MORE:

Best foodie road trips in California

Sequoia National Park

Why go to Sequoia National Park

Four hours is just the right amount of time to truly escape from the city for a weekend. Head to Sequoia National Park to spend time with the redwoods, move your body, and get that work-from-home crick out of your neck.

What you should do at Sequoia National Park

Plan to stay the night if you can, either by car camping or booking a yurt.

Go tree-gazing: Visit the

General Sherman Tree

and the

Tunnel Log

for a quick lesson from nature on how small we are compared to the universe’s vastness. One note: make sure to check road reports in advance, as roads are sometimes closed due to summer wildfires.

MORE:

7 best California road trips

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Las Vegas

Why go to Las Vegas

Forget your troubles in Las Vegas,

Nevada

. You can take the Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas route or simply indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime trip with your besties. Either way, this Los Angeles road trip is guaranteed to satisfy.

What to do in Las Vegas

Get your thrills: Vegas has it all, from desert

drag racing

, to

hot air balloon rides

, to

extreme zip lining

Of course, you can also opt for relaxation by watching TV in the hotel and booking an afternoon spa treatment.

Why you need roadside assistance

Jerry’s roadside assistance program

is your key to a pain-free weekend adventure.

Worried about a flat in Joshua Tree?

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It’s a no-brainer to spend less than $10 on a backup plan. Don’t leave for your road trip without

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"Blown away at how easy the process was. So glad I gave this a try!" - Satisfied Jerry user

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FAQs

What is the best road trip for hiking near Los Angeles?

Joshua Tree National Park and Mammoth Lakes are the two best destinations for hiking near Los Angeles.

How do I find food on my road trip?

You can always pack snacks, but California is full of delicious roadside eats. Try planning your route around the restaurants listed above or check out these

road trip food stops

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