#314 Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch

Bottle Tree Ranch is a famous stop along California's Route 66. These stunning bottle trees were constructed by Elmer Long using found objects collected with his Dad over the years. Upon arranging bottles onto poles, Elmer noticed the mirage of colors projected by the sun shining through so created 200 more. Visit at sunset when the colors and shadows are their most vibrant.

 

#271 Amboy

Amboy is an historic Route 66 Ghost Town on the outskirts of the Mojave National Preserve. The town was first started in 1858 as a railroad stop for the Atlantic & Pacific Railroad. It became a boom town in 1926 after the completion of Route 66. In 1938 'Roy's Motel and Café' opened to serve tourists traveling the famed Mother Road. It's iconic Mid-Century modern neon sign was added in 1959. Interstate 40 opened in 1972 and put the town completely out of business. Today, Amboy has a population of four but is famous spot for those traveling 'America's Main Street'.

 

#239 Rainbow Basin Natural Area

Rainbow Basin is a National Natural Landmark in the Mojave Desert outside of Barstow. Its geological rock formations include a mirage of brilliant colors. The basin is also a rich fossil bed with findings of horses, camels and even flamingos! Enjoy a trip through time in this untouched landscape. A one way dirt road winds through the scenic canyons. *4 wheel drive recommended

 

#135 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier has been a classic California experience since 1909. Its iconic views of the Santa Monica Mountains make it a perfect spot to catch a sunset at the end of Route 66. The pier has always been a pleasure pier from its original ballroom, aquarium, arcade, Ferris Wheel, and carousel. Originally built in 1922 featuring 44 hand-carved horses, the current carousel was rebuilt in 1990 under the Looff Hippodrome, an architectural monument on the National Register of Historic Places. Join the amazing docents for free historical walking tours Saturdays and Sundays 11 and 12pm.

 

#39 Mormon Rocks

Mormon Rocks also named Rock Candy Mountains are a series of sandstone boulders located in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. These giant rock formations lie directly in the San Andreas Fault Zone. Part of San Bernardino National Forest, these rocks were named for the settlers moving from Salt Lake City, Utah to Los Angeles in covered wagons in the 1800's. These beautiful formations are along historic Route 66 in today's Cajon Pass.