One of the best ways to motivate yourself during the pandemic is through dreaming about what kinds of fun activities you can do when all this is over. If you have a passion for road trips or going on long motorcycle rides, here are some bucket-list-worthy locations you can consider for your next big adventure.
Joshua Tree National Park
This national park is so iconic that a U2 album was even named after it. Located in the Coachella Valley, which encompasses nine different desert regions, this national park is the perfect escape for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ever since the early 20th century, sojourners, adventurers, health-seekers, artists, and anyone who wanted some quiet have flocked to this park to gain some sense of solitude and serenity. Located only two hours away from Los Angeles, the Joshua Tree National Park offers a range of activities for those who love the great outdoors—from rock climbing to long hikes. It’s the ideal haven for those who want to breathe some fresh air and experience the wonders of nature.
Baja California Sur
Located in Mexico, Baja California Sur is a balmy and tropical destination that allows adventurers to tour some stunning lagoons, snorkel with some sea lions, spend time with some dolphins and gray whales even swim with whale sharks. There are also plenty of options for the outdoorsman who prefers mountains to seas because there are various trails and excursions in the surrounding desert terrains and mountains, most of which can put hikers’ adrenaline to the ultimate test. Adventurers can also go on extreme water sports since canyoning is also offered in the park.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is located near Mariposa, California, and is the go-to place for those who want to be in the presence of towering granite monoliths, majestic waterfalls, ancient giant sequoias, and deep valleys. Being in Yosemite is like being in a Windows wallpaper come to life, which is why it has been wowing adventurers for more than a hundred years, ever since it became a national park. One of the park’s main selling points is the view drivers get upon entering the valley, which is the stunning 620 feet high fall called Bridalveil. Because a steep trail leads the base, heavy winds would often cause visitors to get wet from the spray. It’s only one of the more memorable experiences that the park has to offer.
The Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur
Also located in California is Big Sur, which is considered one of the most magnificent and exhilarating driving experiences globally. The highway literally embraces the cliffs that provide the most scenic views in the world. The Pacific Coast Highway is a 90-mile stretch coastal road that drivers must pass through to get to Big Sur, which is known for centuries-old redwoods that people all over the world flock to for some much-needed forest bathing and forest therapy. If you’re someone who loves going on hours-long road trips and find healing in seeing the most stunning views, don’t miss out on driving to Big Sur through the Pacific Coast Highway.
Lake District, England
If you’re looking for something a bit more international, consider flying to England and going on a road trip to Lake District, also known for its Middle-earth-like views and romantic settings. It’s not just your run-of-the-mill national park; it’s chock-full of historical value, especially for people who love poetry and writing. There are various castles and landmarks that travelers can pay a visit to, like the Lowther Castle, which is known for its gothic architecture and romantic gardens where picnics usually take place; Dove Cottage, where poet William Wordsworth was reported to have written much of his work and houses many of his belongings, poetry, and paintings; and Hike Great Langdale, a trail that provides gorgeous views of the Lakes, as well as a series of beautiful waterfalls.
Be Safe
The end of the pandemic doesn’t mean the end of every safety precaution. Make sure your physical health is up for the task of long-distance driving, do every car or motorcycle repair and maintenance to ensure that it’s in tip-top shape before you hit the road, and only go when the number of infections is low, or if the virus has been completely eradicated. Make this road trip your celebration of sorts for the end of the COVID-19 crisis. But for now, dream and plan so that this road trip will be your best one yet.
