When planning a journey from Death Valley to Sequoia National Park, finding a good stopover is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. The route between these two iconic national parks spans approximately 312 to 407 miles, depending on the chosen path. Several towns along the way offer excellent lodging options, scenic viewpoints, and attractions, making them ideal for breaking up the long drive. This article will explore the best stopovers, including Ridgecrest, Bakersfield, and Three Rivers, providing detailed information on accommodations, local attractions, and travel tips to enhance your road trip experience.
What Are the Best Towns for Stopover and Lodging Options?
When considering a good stopover between Death Valley and Sequoia National Park, three towns stand out for their strategic locations and amenities:
Ridgecrest
Ridgecrest serves as an excellent first stop after leaving Death Valley. Here’s what you can expect:
- Lodging Options:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest
- Best Western China Lake Inn
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SpringHill Suites by Marriott Ridgecrest
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Average Costs: $120 to $200 per night
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Amenities:
- Free breakfast
- Wi-Fi
- Fitness centers
- Pool facilities
Bakersfield
For those looking for a more urban stopover, Bakersfield offers a wide range of accommodations:
- Lodging Options:
- Hyatt Place Bakersfield
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bakersfield
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Hilton Garden Inn Bakersfield
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Average Costs: $150 to $250 per night
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Amenities:
- Free breakfast
- Wi-Fi
- Fitness centers
- Pools
- On-site restaurants
Three Rivers
If you prefer to get closer to Sequoia National Park before stopping, Three Rivers is an ideal choice:
- Lodging Options:
- Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon
- Montecito Sequoia Lodge
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Sierra Lodge
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Average Costs: $100 to $200 per night
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Amenities:
- Free breakfast
- Wi-Fi
- Proximity to natural attractions like Tokopah Falls and the Foothills Visitor Center
What Are the Must-See Scenic Viewpoints Along the Route?
Your journey from Death Valley to Sequoia National Park offers several breathtaking scenic viewpoints. Here are some you shouldn’t miss:
- Zabriskie Point (Death Valley)
- Location: Death Valley National Park
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car
- Parking: Ample parking available
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Notable Features: Panoramic view of the badlands, stunning at sunrise and sunset
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Artist’s Drive (Death Valley)
- Location: Death Valley National Park
- Accessibility: 9-mile scenic drive accessible by car
- Parking: Several pull-outs and parking areas along the drive
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Notable Features: Unique geological formations and colorful rock layers
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Kelso Dunes (Mojave National Preserve)
- Location: Mojave National Preserve
- Accessibility: Accessible by car, with a short hike to the dunes
- Parking: Parking area near the dunes
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Notable Features: Known for the “singing sand” and stunning desert landscape views
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Tokopah Falls (Sequoia National Park)
- Location: Sequoia National Park, near Three Rivers
- Accessibility: 3.4-mile round-trip hike from the Tokopah Valley Trailhead
- Parking: Available at the trailhead
- Notable Features: Picturesque waterfall in a scenic valley
What Attractions Are Near the Stopover Towns?
Each stopover town offers unique attractions to enhance your journey:
Ridgecrest Attractions
- Maturango Museum
- Entry Fee: Around $5 for adults
- Operating Hours: Typically 10 AM to 5 PM
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Activities: Exhibits on local history, Native American artifacts, and petroglyph collection
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Petroglyph Park
- Admission: Free
- Operating Hours: Open daily
- Activities: Hiking trails and ancient petroglyph viewing
Bakersfield Attractions
- Kern County Museum
- Entry Fee: Around $10 for adults
- Operating Hours: Typically 9 AM to 5 PM
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Activities: Local history exhibits, pioneer village, historic building collection
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California Area Living Museum (CALM)
- Entry Fee: Around $10 for adults
- Operating Hours: Typically 9 AM to 4 PM
- Activities: Zoo, botanical gardens, children’s petting zoo
Three Rivers Attractions
- Foothills Visitor Center
- Admission: Free
- Operating Hours: Typically 8 AM to 4:30 PM
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Activities: Sequoia National Park information, exhibits, gift shop
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Tokopah Falls
- Admission: Free (requires park entrance fee for Sequoia National Park)
- Operating Hours: Open daily
- Activities: Hiking to the falls, exploring the surrounding area
What Are the Best Routes and Travel Data?
When planning your good stopover between Death Valley and Sequoia National Park, consider the following route options and travel data:
Route Options
- Direct Route
- Distance: Approximately 312 miles
- Path: Via CA-58 W
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Note: Includes tolls
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Alternative Route
- Distance: About 407 miles
- Path: Via CA-127 S and CA-58 W
- Note: Avoids tolls but is longer
Estimated Travel Times
The drive typically takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the chosen route and any stops along the way.
Potential Challenges
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Road Conditions: Be aware of potential road closures due to weather or maintenance, especially during winter months.
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Accessibility Issues: Some scenic viewpoints and trails may have limited accessibility for those with mobility issues.
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Weather Considerations:
- Death Valley: Extremely hot during summer
- Sequoia National Park: Cool to cold in winter
- Tip: Plan accordingly with appropriate clothing and hydration
By considering these factors and planning your good stopover between Death Valley and Sequoia National Park, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey through some of California’s most stunning landscapes.
References:
1. Lodging – Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
2. Las Vegas to Yosemite Road Trip + Death Valley & Sequoia
3. California Road Trip: Death Valley to Sequoia National Park