Claremont to Laughlin Road Trip Guide

The Mojave Desert offers vast vistas of creosote bushes, Joshua trees, and volcanic rock formations. Near Cajon Pass, look for the signed Mormon Rocks—sandstone formations eroded into honeycomb patterns.

• Calico Ghost Town: Off I-15 at Minneola Road. A restored silver mining town from the 1880s, with shops and a railroad museum.
• Mojave National Preserve: Exit I-15 at Nipton Road (if time allows). Kelso Dunes rise 700 feet; the visitor center has exhibits on desert ecology.

Local commerce thrives on nostalgia and roadside stops. The how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities guide suggests popping into the World's Largest Thermometer in Baker, CA—a 134-foot novelty structure celebrating the record heat.

In Laughlin, the Colorado River powers water sports and casinos. The Laughlin Labyrinths are a real estate oddity—a network of dirt roads with whimsical names like 'Desert Sage Lane' perfect for casual exploration.

Start on I-10 West, merge onto I-15 North at Ontario. After 45 minutes, exit at CA-138 for a shortcut to Pearblossom. Rejoin I-15 at Cajon Pass. Continue north for 2 hours to Barstow, then take I-40 East for 30 miles to US 95 North. Follow US 95 for 45 miles to Laughlin.

• Road Quality: I-15 and I-40 are well-maintained. US 95 is a two-lane highway with occasional rough patches.
• Toll Roads: None on this route.

Fuel stations are plentiful every 20-30 miles along I-15 and I-40. Gas prices average $4.80/gallon in California, dropping to $4.20 in Nevada. Plan a fill-up in Barstow or at the travel plaza near Needles.

Desert driving demands vigilance. Heat can cause tire blowouts; check pressure before leaving. Carry extra water—temperatures exceed 100°F in summer. Flash floods rare but possible in monsoons (July–September).

• Cell Service: Works on I-15 and I-40; spotty on US 95 near the Dead Mountains.
• Tow Services: Reachable via highway call boxes every 2 miles; AAA coverage recommended.

For families, the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville (exit I-15 at Bear Valley) offers interactive exhibits. In Needles, the Mohave Valley Recreation Area has shaded picnic spots and a small beach.

Fatigue management: Use rest areas at Mojave River Rest Area (mile marker 178 on I-15, northbound) and Valley of Fire Rest Area on I-40. Both have restrooms and vending machines.

Pet-friendly stops: Hesperia Dog Park (off I-15 at Ranchero Road) has separate zones for small and large dogs. The Laughlin Dog Park on Casino Drive provides shaded benches and water fountains.