Northern CA Wine Country

94.0 miles: 3 hours, 12 minutes

Traversing the majestic Golden Gate Bridge is only the beginning of this picturesque journey. Once in Marin, eucalyptus woodlands hug the narrow, winding highway. SR 1 brings you back to the Pacific, where steep bluffs and ocean views await. Pull off and watch for distant sprays from a whale’s spout. But don’t forget to check the gas tank—stations are few and far between.

87.1 miles: 2 hours, 17 minutes

Coastal SR 1, which passes charming coastal towns and over mountaintops, is a photographer’s dream; there’s not a bad spot to snap a picture. The juxtaposition of the craggy coast and expansive ocean creates truly breathtaking views. In Mendocino County, the mountains pull back from the ocean, making the area the perfect place to enjoy an absolutely stunning sunset.

67.0 miles: 1 hours, 35 minutes

The road to Wine Country veers away from the ragged coast and enters redwood forests, past towering trees and giant ferns. Out of the redwoods, the route becomes more pastoral, with vineyards, orchards and farms coming on the scene.

63.8 miles: 1 hours, 38 minutes

The final leg of the trip winds through the hills to Calistoga, as famous for its charming Victorian architecture as it is for its mineral hot springs. Traveling through the heartland of California’s wine region, vineyards dot the landscape along SR 29, home to some of Napa Valley’s best-known wineries and boutique cellars.