California Desert

Soon after Riverside County suburbia gives way to wide open spaces, thousands of windmill turbines dotting the desert make for a curious sight. They also signal you've reached the San Gorgonio Pass. Just ahead lies the SR 62 turnoff for the Mojave Desert town of Twentynine Palms, a popular overnight base for exploring nearby Joshua Tree National Park.

This leg tours the heart of Joshua Tree National Park, named for its signature, spiky species of yucca. Among the twisted trees you'll see bizarre rock formations and granite, jumbo-sized boulders in all sorts of fantastic shapes (don't miss Skull Rock). To get a good feel for the place, go hiking. With 3 hours to spare, try the trek to 49 Palms Oasis.

Departing the south side of Joshua Tree, you'll zip across the arid Coachella Valley en route to Palm Springs. Check into a plush resort/spa, rinse off the road dust and lounge by the pool. Go shopping along Palm Canyon Drive. Play a round of golf. Or if you're still in the mood for nature, walk the pretty Agua Caliente Indian Canyons at the south end of town.

Palm Springs is backed by the lofty San Jacinto Mountains, and you won't want to leave before riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Boasting knockout views, the rotating gondolas travel from the desert floor to an elevation of some 8,500 feet in 10 minutes. Heading back to L.A. on a Sunday? Be aware that late afternoon traffic will seriously test your nerves.