1. Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree)
Why it's great for wellness: Joshua Tree is a serene escape with its vast desert landscapes, unique rock formations, and tranquil environment, making it ideal for relaxation and meditation. The park is perfect for wellness travelers looking to disconnect and recharge. The Cholla Cactus Garden and Hidden Valley offer peaceful walks and perfect spots for reflection.
Wellness Activities: Yoga retreats, meditation sessions, hiking in nature, stargazing.
2. Big Bear Lake (Big Bear)
Why it's great for wellness: Surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a peaceful retreat for wellness travelers. You can hike, take a boat ride on the lake, or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Wellness Activities: Hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, spa services at The Lodge at Big Bear Lake or The Bluebird Day Spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.
3. Palm Springs (Palm Springs Area)
Why it's great for wellness: Just off Route 66, Palm Springs is a world-renowned wellness destination with a variety of spas, retreats, and health-conscious activities. The desert climate offers therapeutic warmth, and there are plenty of options for outdoor activities that nourish both the body and mind.
Wellness Activities: Spa treatments, mud baths, yoga classes, fitness retreats, hiking in Indian Canyons. Be sure to visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views and peaceful hiking.
4. Lake Arrowhead (Lake Arrowhead)
Why it's great for wellness: Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead offers a peaceful, scenic environment perfect for unwinding. Its serene atmosphere makes it an excellent place for reflection, hiking, and outdoor wellness activities.
Wellness Activities: Hiking, nature walks, lakefront yoga, and meditation. You can also visit the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for holistic treatments and relaxation.
5. The Integratron (Landers)
Why it's great for wellness: Located near Joshua Tree, the Integratron is a unique, historical structure known for its sound baths, which are believed to rejuvenate the body and mind. It’s an experience where you can listen to calming sounds in a peaceful environment, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Wellness Activities: Sound baths, energy healing, and relaxation sessions.
6. San Bernardino Mountains (San Bernardino)
Why it's great for wellness: The San Bernardino Mountains offer a natural, peaceful environment ideal for wellness. Hiking, nature walks, and the fresh mountain air are perfect for connecting with nature and promoting mental wellness.
Wellness Activities: Hikes such as Heart Rock Trail, where you can experience beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, and fresh air—great for clearing your mind and grounding yourself.
7. Calistoga Hot Springs (Calistoga - Detour from Route 66)
Why it's great for wellness: While a bit off Route 66, Calistoga in Northern California offers rejuvenating hot springs that have been a wellness destination for decades. The mineral-rich waters are known for their therapeutic benefits, and the town is filled with spas that cater to wellness travelers.
Wellness Activities: Soothing mud baths, hot spring pools, massages, and wellness spa treatments.
8. Mojave Desert (Mojave Desert)
Why it's great for wellness: The quiet, vast expanse of the Mojave Desert provides a perfect environment for meditation, reflection, and connecting with nature. The expansive landscape is ideal for practicing mindfulness and wellness.
Wellness Activities: Desert hikes, stargazing, and quiet outdoor spaces for yoga and meditation. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations like the Mojave Desert Retreat for a sustainable and peaceful experience.
9. Santa Monica Beach (Santa Monica)
Why it's great for wellness: Santa Monica combines the beach and wellness activities for a perfect ending to your Route 66 journey. The ocean’s waves, fresh air, and beautiful views are perfect for unwinding.
Wellness Activities: Beach yoga, surfing lessons, coastal cycling, or walking along the Santa Monica Pier and beachfront promenade. You can also visit the Exhale Spa for yoga and meditation classes.
10. The Desert Hot Springs (Desert Hot Springs)
Why it's great for wellness: Known for its natural mineral hot springs, Desert Hot Springs offers an exceptional wellness experience. The waters in this area are rich in minerals and are believed to have therapeutic properties for relaxation and stress relief.
Wellness Activities: Hot spring soaking, massage therapies, and mud baths. Consider staying at a wellness resort like Two Bunch Palms for a full spa experience with yoga and meditation.
11. Route 66 in San Bernardino (San Bernardino)
Why it's great for wellness: San Bernardino offers access to hiking and nature while being close to wellness-focused activities. Whether you’re interested in a healthy meal at a local café or a hike in the mountains, it’s a peaceful stop along the route.
Wellness Activities: San Bernardino National Forest offers hiking trails that wind through the mountains and forests, ideal for meditative walks or nature photography.
12. Wellness Spas and Hot Springs (Various Locations)
Why it's great for wellness: Along Route 66, many cities have wellness spas that offer massages, facials, and other rejuvenating treatments. These stops can help you recover from long drives and relax during your trip.
Wellness Activities: Book treatments at local spas such as The Day Spa at The Ritz-Carlton in Rancho Mirage, or Desert Oasis Day Spa in Palm Springs, both offering soothing wellness treatments.
13. Hiking in the High Desert (Joshua Tree, Mojave Desert)
Why it's great for wellness: If you love nature and hiking, the High Desert along Route 66 provides plenty of trails with stunning desert views that promote physical and mental well-being. The quiet environment also makes it ideal for practicing mindfulness.
Wellness Activities: Joshua Tree National Park offers scenic hikes like Ryan Mountain Trail or Lost Horse Mine Trail that are ideal for improving both physical fitness and mental clarity.
14. Yoga in Nature (Mojave Desert)
Why it's great for wellness: The Mojave Desert offers wide open spaces for practicing yoga. Whether you choose a private class or simply set up your mat in a peaceful desert landscape, yoga here can be a deeply meditative and grounding experience.
Wellness Activities: Take a group yoga class in Joshua Tree or enjoy a solo session with stunning desert backdrops. Many yoga studios and retreat centers in the area also offer wellness workshops.
15. Mindfulness and Meditation (Various Locations)
Why it's great for wellness: As a wellness traveler on Route 66, you’ll find plenty of quiet, scenic spots perfect for mindfulness and meditation. Take a break from your journey to center yourself and practice self-care in peaceful surroundings.
Wellness Activities: Utilize the peaceful environment of Joshua Tree, Lake Arrowhead, or Big Bear for daily meditation or mindfulness walks.
Wellness Travel Tips for Route 66 California:
Pack Light: Bring comfortable clothes for yoga, hiking, and outdoor activities.
Stay Hydrated: The desert can be hot, so drink plenty of water and take breaks to keep your energy up.
Book Wellness Retreats: If you want a more focused wellness experience, consider staying at one of the wellness retreats or spas along your route for a more immersive experience.
Take Your Time: The beauty of wellness travel is in slowing down, so give yourself plenty of time to explore nature, meditate, and practice mindfulness along your journey.