Mohave Desert: The Mohave desert is part of the Sonoran Desert chain stretching from Mexico to North past Death Valley. You will be passing through Death Valley on the way back. The Mohave technically receives too much rain to be a desert, but the climate is very close. If you get a chance check out the Calico Goast town and the Joshua trees ( a form of Yuca ) that line the highway.

Click here for more info on the Mohave Desert.

Pacific Coast Highway: There may not be a road in the world that compares to the Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching from sunny "So Cal" to the shady forests of the north, this coastal highway winds along some of the most spectacular ocean views in the U.S. The highway contains countless examples of the many intrinsic qualities that make a highway a National Scenic Byway--qualities like perfect views of ocean waves breaking on rocky shorelines and cliffs, dozens of historical landmarks like Spanish Missions and Spanish settlements, and limitless opportunities to participate in every kind of outdoor recreation imaginable. A traveler would have to travel numerous other byways spread across the nation to witness all the qualities contained on just this one byway.

Click here for more info on the Pacific Coast Highway ( including lodging ideas ).

And finally, at the end of this journey is Monterey and the Laguna Seca racetrack. We will be including more detailed maps of the area soon. Here are some excellent hotels in the area to try.

For an incredible experience try the Bernardus Lodge. The Monterey Holiday Inn and Embassy Suites both offer excellent accomodations.

For more info on the races and raceway, click here - Laguna Seca Raceway.

Click for Leg 6: Laguna Seca to Yosemite