Kyle's Corner (FYI) Driving: State Route 1

State Route 1 is the
coastal road that runs
from Los Angeles to
San Francisco. The
length of the drive is
485 miles. This dis-
tance really allows
the driver to assess
and enjoy the merits
of a sports car, cross-
over, pickup truck, etc.

So what makes this
highway so special?
Well, to start, very

likely great weather! Additionally, this outlet allows the driver to escape L.A.'s
urban sprawl. Furthermore, the driver will be heading north to San Francisco
and the home of the Grateful Dead - the famous rock band of the 70's!

Yes, you can take the Interstate, however, the old coast road, officially called
State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway), really is a treat for the driver's motoring
soul. This stunning road hugs the California coast and it is delightfully free
of traffic now that the 101 Interstate handles the bulk of travel from L.A. to
San Francisco.

State Route 1 has some of the most impressive coastal scenery in the U.S.,
but it also offers views of hidden America - small towns that really are
representative of America!

During the drive, there is Malibu Beach with its singlet-wearing
bodybuilders who let it show in public. Also, the more laid-back
Santa Cruz reveals its great surfing, VW Beatles on every corner,
an old boardwalk, as well as a wooden rollercoaster. In between
these communities is Big Sur - home to such bohemian characters
such as Jack Kerouch, Hunter Thompson as well as Brian Wilson.
Needless to say, this is a popular tourist location.

And one more thing about Big Sur is that it has some of the most
stunning scenery on the drive. Just as you think that it can't get
any better, it does time after time.

Furthermore, there is the Bixby Creek Bridge. It was completed in
1932 to bridge a previously impassable canyon. When you see it, you
will recognize it from the many films and television commercials.
What makes it so great? The bridge's elegant arch works with rather
than competes with the surrounding landscape. Before the bridge was
built, the road had to detour inland to clear the canyon. Of note is
the old route is passable and offers a great view of the bridge, how-
ever, for this particular part of the drive, it would be best to be
using say a Porsche Cayenne rather than a 911!

And at last, you reach San Francisco - life just got better indeed!

Driving State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) is something
everyone should experience more than once in a lifetime. It is a
great driver's road that includes countless sweeping bends and the
necessary stretches to blow out the engine's carbon. However,
what gives the drive added kick is the spectacular scenery and its
truly American culture. Good driving, the view, and culture - who
could ask for more?

When you drive State Route 1, my advice is to take at least parts of
it slow - even doing the 485 miles over a couple of days.

Trust me, I know cars! And I also know that whether you call it
State Route 1, the Pacific Coast Highway or simply CA 1, you will
love driving it!

Have an auto question or comment? You can email it to me at
Kbusch3@verizon.net. Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best
for the Price..." www.DriveTheBestBook.com.