There’s something special about hitting the open road in an electric vehicle like quiet miles, beautiful scenery, and a slower, more thoughtful way to travel.
A West Coast EV road trip from California to Calgary, Canada, brings all of that together, with scenic routes and reliable charging that take the stress out of the drive.
This guide walks you through the journey with Sonesta staff recommendations, highlighting our hotels along the way that make each overnight stop feel easy and comfortable.
5 Stops Between California & Calgary Recommended by EV Drivers
With the logistics covered and the charging questions answered, it’s time to enjoy what this journey is really about—the drive.
Each stop below balances scenic views, drive-time logic with charging convenience, and Sonesta hotels along the way.
1. Southern California Launch Point: Anaheim, CA
Anaheim feels like an easy, natural place to begin a West Coast EV road trip. Starting in Southern California gives the journey room to unfold, time to settle in, get organized, and ease into the miles ahead without feeling rushed.
An overnight stay at Sonesta Anaheim Resort Area sets that tone from the start. The resort-style atmosphere offers a comfortable base before heading north, giving travelers space to unwind and reset while preparing for the drive ahead.
Before departing, Anaheim offers plenty to enjoy at a low-impact pace. Visitors can explore Anaheim GardenWalk, an open-air promenade with dining and wide walkways, so you can enjoy the evening on foot.
For fresh air and green space, Yorba Regional Park offers scenic trails, lakes, and shaded paths, ideal for a relaxed walk or a quiet moment before a long drive north.
When it comes time to dining out, the hotel manager often points guests toward Anaheim Packing House, a popular local spot known for its open-air feel and wide mix of eateries. It’s an easy, walkable option that lets you enjoy a relaxed meal without hopping into the car or adding extra miles before the next day’s drive.
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View of the Silicon Valley, CA
2. Silicon Valley Recharge: Milpitas, CA
After leaving Southern California, Milpitas makes a natural and well-timed stop on a West Coast EV road trip. The drive from Anaheim to Milpitas is roughly 380–420 miles, depending on your route, making it a full but manageable day behind the wheel for most EVs.
Arriving in Milpitas feels like a shift in energy. Nestled at the edge of Silicon Valley, this area is one of the most EV-forward regions in the country, where electric vehicles are part of everyday life.
An overnight stay at Sonesta San Jose – Milpitas allows you to charge your car while you rest. The hotel’s spacious guest rooms, comfortable common areas, and on-site fitness center make it easy to unwind after a long drive.
For guests who want to step out, hotel staff often recommend a short walk to Ed R. Levin County Park, where gentle trails, and hillside views can offer a refreshing break from the road. It’s an easy way to stretch your legs and get some fresh air without committing to a long excursion.
When it comes to food, hotel front desk staff favorites include DishDash for flavorful, nourishing plates, or The Kebab Shop for something quick and satisfying. Both options are close by and popular with locals, ideal for a relaxed evening that doesn’t add unnecessary miles.
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Rolling hills of Dunnigan, CA
3. Northern California Convenience Stop: Dunnigan, CA
Located approximately 180–200 miles north of Milpitas, Dunnigan is a practical, well-timed pause on your West Coast EV road trip, especially after navigating the busier Bay Area and Central Valley corridors.
Situated directly off I-5, Dunnigan is an easy-in, easy-out stop that keeps the journey efficient without sacrificing rest.
America’s Best Value Inn & Suites Dunnigan is a straightforward, practical stay for EV travelers who value efficiency and affordability. With comfortable rooms and immediate access to I-5, it offers a quiet, no-frills stop for charging your vehicle and getting a cozy night’s rest.
For travelers who arrive in Dunnigan with a little extra daylight to spare, locals love pointing visitors toward Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, a quiet favorite that feels worlds away from the interstate. The refuge is known for its wide-open landscapes, scenic auto loops, and walking paths.
Another favorite is Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area, a relaxed riverside spot with shaded areas and hiking trails. It’s perfect for a short stroll, a quiet moment by the water, or simply stretching your legs.
When it comes to dining, hotel manager often recommends Granzella’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, a longtime local favorite just minutes from the hotel, known for its hearty Italian classics, fresh sandwiches, and baked goods.
For a more casual meal, Road Trip Bar & Grill offers comfort food in a relaxed setting that’s popular with road trippers.
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Palouse Falls State Park, Pasco, WA
4. Pacific Northwest Crossing: Pasco, Washington
Pasco is a natural place to pause and reset on your West Coast EV road trip, especially after the longer drive north of California. Located roughly 430–470 miles north of Dunnigan, this stop marks a clear transition into the Pacific Northwest, where traffic is lighter and driving feels calmer.
An overnight stay at Red Lion Hotel Pasco Airport & Conference Center offers a comfortable place to rest and charge, with spacious rooms, on-site dining, a fitness center, and relaxed common areas.
For travelers who want to explore the outdoors, the front desk staff often recommend a walk along the Sacagawea Heritage Trail. This scenic trail follows the Columbia River and is ideal for a casual stroll or a quiet moment outside after a day on the road.
Locals also frequently visit Chiawana Park, a peaceful green space with river views, perfect for stretching your legs without venturing far.
When it comes to dining out, guests often gravitate toward the same places locals love. Proof Gastropub is a popular choice for its approachable Northwest-inspired menu and relaxed setting, while Fiesta Mexican Restaurant is a longtime local favorite known for its bold flavors and casual vibe.
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Calgary, Alberta, CA
5. Final Destination: Calgary, Alberta
The drive from Pasco to Calgary spans roughly 700–750 miles, and the change in scenery makes every mile feel worthwhile. Open plains gradually give way to distant mountain views, and the pace of the journey naturally slows as you approach the city.
Hotel 11, MOD A Sonesta Collection offers a comfortable, modern place to land after the long northbound drive. With its contemporary design, well-appointed rooms, on-site dining, and inviting shared spaces, the hotel is ideal for reflecting on the journey and deciding what comes next.
If you ask the front desk where to go first, staff usually suggest keeping it simple. Calgary RiverWalk is often the top recommendation: it’s scenic, and right along the water. You can walk as little or as much as you want and shake off the feeling of being in the car for days.
Another staff favorite is Prince’s Island Park, just off the river. It’s the kind of place locals go to slow down, ideal for a quiet walk, a bench by the water, or simply taking in the views without committing to a full plan or “activity.”
If you’re more in the mood to wander and grab a bite or coffee, the front desk usually points guests toward Stephen Avenue Walk. It’s an easy stroll with shops and historic buildings, and you don’t really need a plan, just see where you end up.
When it comes to dining out, visitors tend to follow local favorites. River Café is known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes in a peaceful island setting, while Charcut Roast House is a popular spot for Alberta-inspired comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Planning Your West Coast EV Road Trip
A well-planned itinerary is the key to a smooth West Coast EV road trip, especially one that spans international borders.
From choosing the right vehicle, whether you’re driving your own EV or renting one, to understanding how charging works in both the U.S. and Canada, planning ahead allows you to drive with confidence and focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Key Planning Essentials for EV Travelers
- Choose the right EV for long-distance travel: Whether you drive your own EV or rent one, look for a strong range, DC fast-charging capability, and comfort features that support multi-day driving.
- Use EV route-planning and charging apps: Plan charging stops in advance, monitor real-time charger availability and speeds, and set up accounts and payment methods before departure.
- Understand cross-border charging (U.S. to Canada): Reliable charging is available along major West Coast routes, most U.S. EVs are compatible with Canadian Level 2 and DC fast chargers, and charging standards remain consistent across the border.
- Prepare for weather and terrain: Cooler temperatures and mountain elevation can reduce range, so plan shorter driving segments as you travel north.
- Prioritize overnight hotel charging: Starting the day with a full battery simplifies route planning, reduces reliance on peak-hour fast chargers, and makes EV travel smoother when staying at EV-charging Sonesta hotels along the West Coast.
With these basics in place, EV travel on the West Coast to Canada is predictable and easy to plan, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than the logistics.
Wrapping Up the EV Journey
A West Coast EV road trip from California to Calgary proves that long-distance electric travel can be both practical and rewarding.
From Southern California’s easy start to the open roads of the Pacific Northwest and the mountain-backed arrival in Alberta, each stretch of the drive adds something different to the experience.
Choosing EV-friendly Sonesta hotels along the way adds a layer of ease and comfort that makes a real difference on the road.
As you plan your own adventure, don’t forget to take advantage of Sonesta Travel Pass. Members earn points on every stay across Sonesta’s portfolio, unlocking rewards, exclusive rates, and added value that make each trip even more rewarding.
Disclaimer: The suggested itinerary and points of interest are provided for informational and planning purposes only. Guests are encouraged to independently verify opening hours, availability, travel times, and any potential changes prior to visiting. The inclusion of any businesses, attractions, or destinations does not imply affiliation with or endorsement by Sonesta or its affiliates. Sonesta makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided and assumes no responsibility for any inconvenience or loss arising from the use of this information.
