Orderville to Groveland: Scenic Utah to California Road Trip

This route from Orderville, UT to Groveland, CA spans roughly 750 miles, crossing the stark transition between the Colorado Plateau and the Basin and Range Province. You’ll start near the edge of Zion National Park and end at the western gateway of Yosemite.

The journey uses a patchwork of highways: initially UT-9/US-89, then I-15 south through Las Vegas, followed by CA-58, CA-99, and finally CA-120 into Groveland. The drive typically takes 11–13 hours of pure driving, but with stops it becomes a multi-day adventure.

One quirky detail: near Baker, California (just off the route) sits the world’s tallest thermometer, a roadside relic of the Mojave’s extreme heat.

Fuel and Route Economics: Gas prices vary significantly along this route. Utah stations near Orderville tend to be moderate, while Nevada and California prices spike, especially in remote areas like the Mojave. Plan to fill up in St. George and again in Barstow to avoid premium desert prices.

Driving times: The longest continuous leg is between Las Vegas and Bakersfield (approx 4 hours without breaks). Aim to depart Orderville early to avoid peak Las Vegas traffic, which can add 30–60 minutes through the city.

• Rest stops with facilities are sparse past Barstow; use the rest area near Kramer Junction (CA-58).
• Electronic tolls: None on this route, but some California bridges require FasTrak – not needed here.
• Emergency services: Cell coverage is patchy in the Mojave; carry a paper map or offline GPS.

Climatic Conditions: Expect a dramatic shift. Orderville sits at 5,300 ft with cool mornings; the desert lows in Las Vegas and Barstow easily exceed 100°F in summer. As you climb near Groveland (3,000 ft), temperatures drop again. Spring and fall are ideal.

Route Aesthetics: The scenery evolves from red rock canyons of Utah to the neon of Las Vegas, then the stark Mojave Desert, finally the green foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Each segment offers a distinct palette.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: I-15 and CA-58 are well-maintained, but the stretch between Barstow and Bakersfield via CA-58 is two-lane in parts with limited shoulder. Watch for high winds in the Tehachapi Pass. Construction zones are common near Las Vegas – check real-time traffic apps.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: The most fatigue-prone segment is Las Vegas to Bakersfield. Use the rest area at the California Agricultural Inspection Station near Baker (exit 194) – it has shade and picnic tables. Another good stop is the Cinder Cones Natural Area overlook near Amboy, which offers a short, scenic break.

Family and Child Suitability: This route is family-friendly if breaks are planned. The Las Vegas strip is not ideal for young kids, but consider the Discovery Children’s Museum as a controlled, air-conditioned stop. In Groveland, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers historic train rides that entertain all ages.

Pet-Friendly Framework: Most hotels along the route accept pets – look for chain motels like La Quinta in St. George and Barstow. Rest areas in Utah allow leashed animals, but California’s agricultural inspection stations require pets to stay in the car. Carry water and a collapsible bowl, especially in the desert.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: A 15-mile detour on UT-59 from Colorado City leads to the Pipe Spring National Monument, a historic Mormon fort and Paiute settlement. Near Baker, the World’s Tallest Thermometer is a quirky photo op. And just before Groveland, the small town of Big Oak Flat has a general store with surprisingly good ice cream.

For more ideas on uncovering secret gems along your journey, check out how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This guide helps you look beyond the main road for authentic experiences.

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: Just off the start, Zion National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a must-see, though it requires a detour. The route itself passes near Red Cliffs National Conservation Area in Utah and the Mojave National Preserve in California. These provide short hikes among Joshua trees and volcanic cinder cones.

UNESCO Heritage Sites: While not directly on the route, Zion is a 30-minute drive from Orderville. If you have time, the Kolob Canyons section offers a lesser-crowded but equally stunning entrance. Further south, the Grand Canyon is a half-day detour, but not recommended for a tight itinerary.

Local Commerce & Culture: In St. George, the historic downtown hosts a farmer’s market on Saturdays. Barstow is known for its Route 66 nostalgia, with the Mother Road Museum. In Groveland, the Iron Door Saloon (est. 1852) is the oldest operating bar in California – a perfect end-of-drive reward.

Culinary Infrastructure: Along I-15, fast food dominates. For local flavor, try the Dutch oven cooking at the Bit & Spur in Springdale (near Orderville) or the Basque cuisine at The Woolgrowers in Bakersfield. Pack snacks for the desert stretches – fresh produce stands are rare until you reach the Central Valley.