By Stephanie Villafuerte
Summer is a time that brings adventure. It’s a time where many will load up their luggage with wardrobe favorites, forget about any stresses and hit the road in vacation mode.
There is an even greater feeling of excitement when that road trip destination spot is located in California. With its coastal vibe, amusement park thrills and restaurants that will leave you wanting more, there’s plenty of love to go around during your travels.
And here to welcome you, is Santa Clarita. The Gateway to L.A. has attributed to much of the golden state’s icon status as it’s home to Six Flags Magic Mountain, Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Placerita Canyon. If that’s not enough, only a short drive away awaits more fun such as Universal Studios, Disneyland, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Santa Monica Pier.
No matter your starting point, here’s how to make your Santa Clarita road trip complete with these must-visits.
For the beach-goers
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The sunroof is down, the wind is blowing in just the right direction, and you’ve recently spent a couple of days exploring the beaches of Santa Barbara. Part ways with the American Riviera and head southbound to continue making a splash at Castaic Lake.
Start your journey on the 101, also known as Pacific Coast Highway, where you’ll be driving next to some of Santa Barbara and Ventura County’s most popular and beautiful beaches. You’ll then get on Highway 126 East, Southern California’s last pristine agricultural valley nestled along the banks of the free-flowing Santa Clara River before taking I-5 North straight to the lake.
Aside from sunbathing by the water, this 9,000-acre park also provides guests the opportunity to go fishing, boating, kayaking and even hiking nearby trails. So, beat that California heat and bring the whole family for a day out at the lake!
For the thrill seekers
There’s an adventurer in all of us! Whether you’ve landed at Los Angeles International Airport or are driving into SoCal, what if we told you that there was a way to visit some of the world’s most famous amusement parks in one road trip?
It’s true! Starting from Anaheim, your coaster adventure will begin with a couple of days spent at Disneyland Park and California Adventure. You’ll then take the I-5 N and switch over to 101 N, which will take you directly to Universal Studios Hollywood for a day of sunny fun, laughs and entertainment.
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And here’s the cherry on top of the funnel cake, making your way to Six Flags Magic Mountain from Universal Studios is just a short 25-mile drive! You and your crew will drive on the 170 N and I-5 N freeways, where you will see the iconic Skytower and skyscraper-tall X2 rollercoaster as you drive towards the park.
With 20 world-class coasters, there is a reason why Six Flags Magic Mountain owns the title of “Thrill Capital of the World.” Hop on thrill rides such as Goliath, which boasts a record-breaking 255-ft drop, or race side-by-side with friends on Twisted Colossus, the world’s longest hybrid coaster.
Check in to a local hotel and get some rest as the next day you can continue to make the most of your trip with Six Flag Magic Mountain’s next-door neighbor, Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles. Just a few feet away, this popular waterpark welcomes visitors to its thrilling water slides such as the Bonzai Pipelines or Black Snake Summit. And if you’re looking to relax, take a break in between rides by lounging in the lazy river or under shade at your own rented cabana.
For the outdoor explorers
The beauty of California nature knows no bounds. You’ll find it up north at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge hiking trail, or even the various trails leading to the Hollywood Sign. Further down south, many will also tell you that San Diego’s Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is essential for anyone looking to step outside.
We’re here to tell you that if you love all of those staple trails in a hiker’s journey, you’re going to love Santa Clarita’s hiking trails and open space. And we mean, immediately fall head-over-heels type of love.
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If you’re just starting off as a hiker, ease into the pastime by venturing your way through Quigley Canyon’s serene trail. If you’re looking for wildflowers in full bloom, explore Golden Valley Ranch’s massive open space for your picture-perfect moment.
Of course, no visit to Santa Clarita would be complete without a hike at the beautiful Vasquez Rocks. The backdrop for many of your favorite blockbuster films and television shows, this natural area consists of unique rock formations that take you to another planet. There are numerous trails available for hikers such as Pacific Crest, but anyone willing to test their rock-climbing skills can work their way up the rocks to catch the most stunning views.
Wherever you start, make it your goal to end your road trip with a good old Santa Clarita hike.
For the film buff
Picture this: you’re starting your main character moment in Los Angeles, the city of angels. You’ve taken your picture in front of the TCL Chinese Theatre, along with a selfie in front of your favorite actor’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You’re looking to keep the film rolling—where’s the next scene taking us, the viewers?
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Drive your Batmobile on the 101 N, to the 170 N, before exiting I-5 N and finding yourself in Old Town Newhall. While there are a variety of filming locations within the city of Santa Clarita, it’s here in the Newhall community that you will discover the town’s rich history in Western, silent film and Old Hollywood.
You can discover what shows filmed and where through the Walking Tour App, which is a free app that navigates users through each nearby location and provides information on that specific filming spot. Also, peruse the Film Aficionado itinerary for even more great Santa Clarita film content.
Moviegoers can also visit Santa Clarita’s very own Walk of Western Stars, where you will see names such as John Wayne, William S. Hart and Gene Autry displayed front and center. Each of the stars have contributed to America’s heritage, making it a road trip worthy moment.
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Get the full movie experience when you take a walk around William S. Hart Regional Park, honoring the silent film industry’s very first cowboy movie star. Visitors can admire the buildings that are each full of history and a touch of movie magic!
It’s worth noting once more that Vasquez Rocks is also a-must for anyone that’s a fan of The Flintstones, Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey, Power Rangers, Star Trek, Westworld and many more productions that have filmed at this park.