
audiobook
by Thos. D. (Thomas Dowler) Murphy
Designed for the early‑20th‑century motorist, this volume invites listeners to explore California’s most captivating roadways. From the rugged cliffs of Monterey to the sun‑kissed valleys of Paso Robles, the author sketches routes that reveal hidden coves, desert oases, and towering redwoods. The narrative balances practical advice with vivid descriptions of the state’s natural beauty and lingering Spanish mission heritage.
The new edition enriches the original with sixteen full‑color plates drawn from local artists and thirty‑two duographs taken from photographs, giving a visual sense of place as vivid as the road itself. A state map guides travelers to each suggested itinerary, while the text stays clear of overly technical details, making it suitable for anyone with a reliable automobile. Readers also learn where to find road conditions through the Automobile Club’s network.
Beyond mere directions, the book captures the spirit of California as a paradise, noting how improved highways continually open previously inaccessible vistas. Its gentle tone and ambition make it a pleasant companion for weekend explorers eager to combine history, scenery, and the joy of driving along the sunset highways.
Language
en
Duration
~10 hours (593K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Melissa McDaniel and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive. The map and cover are courtesy of the California History Room, California State Library, Sacramento, California.)
Release date
2018-07-25
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1866–1928
Best known for lively early motoring travel books, this Iowa writer and entrepreneur helped turn road travel into a subject of adventure and curiosity for readers in the early 20th century. He also built a successful calendar business that kept his name well known beyond the literary world.
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