Solo Trippin: From Vegas to Arizona & Cali

DAM WEST COAST

From the time I started planning a trip to Vegas, I knew a west coast road trip had to be added.

Arizona is a border state and California is a 4-hour drive.

Plan A was a tour to Hollywood via Viator.com. The cost is $94 and the duration is about ten hours.

Since I was traveling at the height of COVID, I didn’t want to be confined to another small space requiring a mask.

So road-trip it was.

The day started with a bang at the Seven Magic Mountains.

I then put Hoover Dam in my GPS and was on my way.

I’ve read that there is more than one way to get there. My directions led me to a scenic drive that led to a checkpoint.

Signs discouraged stopping and it was so hard to obey.

Plus, I was already running behind from being at the 7 Magic Mountains too long.

Parking in this area was free.

The only restroom facility was a shed with a hole in the ground. It was scary stuff (with no running water).

Next, was the climb to walk the dead-end bridge and see the dam below. It was beautiful.

From there, you could see the Arizona sign, a visible line that represented the division between the two states.

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As you drive into this area, watch for signs for “scenic overlooks”.

This is my 2nd reservoir viewing. So quiet and relaxing.

I didn’t want to leave!

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WEST SIDE

On my way to Grand Canyon, I realized the time difference during winter/daylight savings time.

I wasn’t prepared. So I literally had about two hours before they closed.

I purchased the tix online and prayed that nothing would further prolong my time.

As I drove through the long deserted reservation, I knew the winding curves would be hard to navigate in the dark.

I didn’t see many light poles either.

The road seemed never-ending to this city girl, but I finally made it.

There is a stopping point right before you reach the Gand Canyon West area.

Since I was rushing, I skipped the lunch ticket and added the skywalk.

I wanted my own first look/interpretation of the glass view below.

From this point, everything seemed rushed since I did not want to be there after dark.

Also, the shuttle driver said not to miss the sunset views at Eagle Point.

So I went through all the motions of locking my belongings, put the large shower caps on my shoes to protect the glass, and then waited in line for pics.

You don’t have to wait if you’re not taking pics. 

I must say the photographers take their job very seriously.

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Exaggerated Views

I stepped out onto the overhang area and it was not scary to me (someone who’s afraid of heights).

One older woman held her grown’s son hand in terror but I was more afraid of falling through the glass than the depth of the rocks below.

I would not recommend viewing the skywalk. You can get better pics around the rim.

Even though I paid the extra fee for the skywalk, pictures are extra and I didn’t realize until I stood in front of the cashier that I had left my wallet in the car.

It was a shuttle ride away.

I guess it wasn’t meant to be since there was not a way to get pictures later.

According to the guides, the last stop had the best views.

So I quickly took pics around the area so I could board the bus to the last point. They were right!

Grand Canyon West is way less scary than Grand Canyon South. It had many more photo ops and you’re not just looking into a guarded rim.

There are rocks you can climb and get a higher/ better view of the area.

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It was very rocky so I was not about to climb with my boots.

The south rim is more breathtaking, but I would recommend adding Grand Canyon West if only for more photo ops. 

Please watch for cows!

CALIFORNIA LOVE

The early morning drive from Vegas to Cali did not disappoint in beauty.

I was also able to catch the sun rising. It was a pretty smooth 4 hours with no stop-and-go traffic.

I stopped once to rest and fill up. A day trip isn’t recommended if you’re driving.

I ended up leaving later than planned and was so sleepy driving back (the time flies).

My first stop was to view the Hollywood sign. COVID closed many viewing points.

I first drove to the roof of the Home Depot on Sunset Blvd, but that view wasn’t good for selfies only to take pictures.

Next, I put this address into my GPS (3000 Canyon Lakes Dr.).

It takes you up a mountainous residential area. There are signs asking you to keep ahead.

Follow the dead end, and you’ll find one of the best views of the iconic letters.

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WINGING IT: ROSCOE’S CHICKEN & WAFFLES

Since this was during the height of COVID, dining in was not allowed.

I took my waffles to go and also ordered a potato dish that equaled to boiled potatoes with gravy.

I don’t recommend it but get your fill of the chicken and waffles. They’re all that and more!

TIP: There’s street parking and parking lots a block over.

Once I stuffed my face in the rental, I walked over to the strip so I could view the Walk of Fame.

Don’t expect glitz and glamour!

Most of the stars are on sidewalks that get heavy foot traffic. My photos had to be edited to make them more presentable.

I didn’t have time to see much else on the strip. I went in search of the Beverly Hills sign but it was covered and under constriction.

Lastly, I rode through Rodeo Dr. and replayed Pretty Woman scenes in my head.

I had to cross town to get over to the Santa Monica Pier area.

There were no empty parking spaces for miles. Be prepared to park and walk.

It wasn’t long before it was time to go. Due to the hour, I would, unfortunately, be stuck in rush hour traffic.

So this wrapped up my first trip to L.A. I’ve seen it in so many movies and shows.

I came! I saw!

Have you been to these spots? Any suggestions for the future?

~Poof…Bee Gone

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