Mojave National Preserve: Stretching over 1.6 million acres, this preserve is an absolute must for nature lovers. Hike through the desolate beauty of the desert, see the famous Kelso Dunes, and witness the spectacular views of the desert landscape.
Amboy Crater: A stunning volcanic cone offering a relatively easy 4-mile hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding desert. The walk is perfect for a solo trek or group exploration.
Cima Dome & Joshua Trees: Located in the Mojave National Preserve, this area is home to vast fields of Joshua trees. A peaceful, picturesque stop where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty.

Goffs Schoolhouse Museum & Desert Surroundings: The quiet, expansive desert offers plenty of solitude, ideal for reflection or wildlife spotting. Take a walk around the area or hike on the nearby trails to appreciate the serene desert landscape.
Desert Hikes: There are plenty of quiet, undeveloped spaces around Goffs to enjoy, where you can discover desert plants, rocks, and unique geological features.

Calico Ghost Town & Calico Mountains: A short distance from Barstow, the Calico Mountains offer hiking trails where you can explore the rugged terrain and enjoy stunning views of the desert. The area is rich in history and wildlife.
Rainbow Basin Natural Area: A great spot for hiking, with colorful rock formations that offer a breathtaking view of the desert. Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the geological beauty of the area.

Lake Arrowhead: Located just off Route 66, Lake Arrowhead is a stunning mountain lake surrounded by towering pines. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, or just taking in the views, this is a beautiful stop for nature lovers.
Big Bear Lake: Another gorgeous mountain retreat, Big Bear is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. Great for hiking, boating, and wildlife watching.
San Bernardino National Forest: Explore the many trails, dense forests, and alpine lakes. The forest provides an incredible contrast to the desert scenery and is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or just enjoying the peace of nature.

Mojave River: The Mojave River runs through Victorville, providing a unique, lush contrast to the surrounding desert. While it’s not a major waterway, it does support a variety of wildlife and plant species, making it an interesting stop for nature lovers.
Spring Valley Lake: A tranquil stop where you can enjoy views of the lake surrounded by the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch: A great place for nature lovers with an artistic twist, this eccentric stop features sculptures made from bottles and scrap metal, but the surrounding desert landscape adds a natural element that’s worth exploring for those who appreciate the beauty of the Mojave Desert.
Desert Landscape Exploration: Take a walk through the expansive desert terrain, where you can spot unique desert plants, cactus, and occasionally wildlife like desert tortoises and bighorn sheep.

While not directly on Route 66, Joshua Tree National Park is a short detour, and for nature lovers, it’s an unmissable experience. The park is known for its striking Joshua trees, boulder formations, and unique desert wildlife.
Hiking Trails: Explore the many trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, that offer up-close views of desert plants, rock formations, and scenic vistas.
Rock Climbing & Stargazing: If you're into more adventurous activities, this is one of the top places in the U.S. for rock climbing. Also, the clear desert skies make for incredible stargazing at night.

Griffith Park: A massive green oasis in the heart of Los Angeles, Griffith Park offers hiking trails with amazing views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. You can also explore the Los Angeles Arboretum or just enjoy a walk through the park’s lush areas.
Runyon Canyon: A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, Runyon Canyon offers scenic hiking trails with panoramic views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
Santa Monica Mountains: Right on the edge of the city, the Santa Monica Mountains offer a variety of hikes, including some stunning coastal views. Perfect for nature lovers who want a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of LA.

Santa Monica Pier: While primarily a tourist spot, the surrounding area offers nature lovers access to beautiful ocean views, sandy beaches, and a chance to relax by the sea. Take a walk along the beach and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Will Rogers State Historic Park: A lovely spot for hiking with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s a quieter spot compared to other areas in LA.

Roadside Rest Stops & Desert Flora: Along the route, take time to stop at various rest areas and enjoy the unique desert flora, cacti, and occasional desert wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for desert tortoises, roadrunners, and other animals native to the area.
Scenic Drives: Route 66 in California offers some of the most scenic drives in the country. The Mojave Desert and surrounding areas are especially stunning during the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts beautiful shadows on the landscape.

Bring plenty of water: Desert climates can be extreme, and dehydration is a real concern. Always have enough water for hikes and outdoor activities.
Wear sun protection: The desert sun can be intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.
Wildlife Watching: Early morning or late evening is the best time to spot desert wildlife. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and other desert dwellers.
National Parks Pass: If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks along Route 66 (like Joshua Tree or Mojave), consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for discounted or free entry.

Wandering Souls