Maryland to California

[Lifemagician]

I think I'll revise my planning to take three days to get to Denver, and then make the final 5.5/6 hour drive to Arches on that fourth day.

That section of I-70 is amongst the most scenic interstates on the continent. If you want to really enjoy it, spend a little time in the many scenic pull offs and overlooks, it could well take you quite a bit longer. You could also look at taking a small detour over Loveland Pass. A spectacular drive.

Lifey

[MDtoCA]

That section of I-70 is amongst the most scenic interstates on the continent.
Lifey

Are there any other roads you recommend driving? I've heard that there are some beautiful roads in CA but I'm not sure if San Francisco / Yosemite / Sequoia NP put me by them.

[Lifemagician]

California is not an area where I have spent a great deal of time. Other than the obvious roads through the various national parks and monuments, I would not be able to tell you. But I am sure one of the locals will turn up shortly, and give you the good oil on which the great scenic routes through CA are.

Lifey

[glc]

Are there any other roads you recommend driving? I've heard that there are some beautiful roads in CA but I'm not sure if San Francisco / Yosemite / Sequoia NP put me by them.

If Tioga Pass is open, you can go from Zion through Las Vegas, then through Death Valley to US-395, take that north to Lee Vining and enter Yosemite through Tioga Pass. Then you can leave Yosemite at the south entrance to get to Sequoia, then head for Cambria and drive the coast road up to SF. If you are pinched for time, you can skip Sequoia and go directly to SF.