Cross County with Three Dogs

Day Three: Bakersfield, California to Tucson, Arizona

We didn't have a lot of time for sight seeing on this journey but one thing I really wanted to see was Joshua Tree National Park. I had seen photos of the strange, spiky trees and massive boulders, but seeing them in person is a different experience entirely.

We left Bakersfield at 9:45 AM. We made a detour and took some time driving slowly through the park. The landscape here is otherworldly—like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. It was a stark contrast to the flat farmland we had just left in the Central Valley and provided a nice mental break from the highway driving.

A Critical Fuel Warning: One thing to note about that decision that is very important - when driving through that part of California, you must plan in advance to get gas. There are very few places off the main highways to fuel up. Especially if you need diesel! Seeing the "No Services for 50 Miles" sign when you are traveling with pets is a stress you do not need. Fill up before you leave the interstate.

Pit Stop entering Arizona

We arrived in Tucson at 10:30 PM Mountain time, totaling almost 12 hours on the road. It was a long day. We stayed at the Radisson Suites Tucson. Mauricio surprised me with a bottle of champagne and sweets in the room, which was exactly what I needed after a day of desert driving!

Hotel Details: We paid the odd amount of $69.38 for a pet fee. Before booking I highly recommend reviewing my original blog Cross Country with Three Dogs where I explain all the necessary steps to make reservations when traveling with pets. We really enjoyed this hotel and almost stayed a second night. The hotel is older but clean and we had a living/kitchenette area plus a separate bedroom and large bathroom.

Why it's great for dogs: There are several green spaces in a courtyard type layout. This means you are walking the pups inside the hotel grounds versus being on the perimeter next to a busy parking lot or highway. It felt much safer and more relaxed. They have a nice bar/restaurant and in spite of our late arrival we were able to enjoy drinks and appetizers at the bar.

Quick stop between Kramer Junction CA and Joshua Tree NP.

I am really glad I decided to purchase this Big Dog Soft Reflective No Pull Harness harness for Ava. She is a little claustrophobic and this does not squeeze her, slips easily over her head and fastens under her chest, fits pretty loose but is totally escape-proof. I thought I would share the link because we are so pleased with it.

Check out my day-by-day posts for details about each hotel and area.