Northern California is perfect for road trips because of all the fascinating things we have to look at along the drive. Sometimes we'll come across an incredible natural wonder, other times it's a quirky small town statue that's been loved for generation after generation. In either case, here are a few things that will always make you do a double take.

1. The Hangman's Tree, Placerville

Placerville was once known as Hangtown, and the hangings that gave the city this name took place in the spot that is now marked by this dummy that hangs from a noose. It's a historic spot and surprisingly well loved by local residents. The spot has now been turned into an ice cream parlour. 305 Main St

Placerville, CA.

2. Honey Run Covered Bridge, Butte County

You just don't see many covered bridges anymore. When you see a gem like this one in Butte County, you might find yourself pulling over to the side of the road to get another look at it. This one is located at 1670 Honey Run Rd, Chico, CA.

3. The Cypress Tree Tunnel, Point Reyes National Seashore

This tunnel is what dreams are made of. You can't drive by it without looping around and wanting to drive or walk down it. See it for yourself the National Seashore in Inverness.

4. Donner Summit Train Tunnels

Speaking of tunnels, there's nothing more fun to explore than the old abandoned train tunnels on Donner Summit near Truckee. They have been marked up with graffiti but are still incredibly beautiful and fun to explore. They're located off Old Hwy 40 before you get to Sugarbowl.

5. The Shrine Drive Thru Tree, Myers Flats

In addition to the drive through tree, you can also explore these 2 story tree houses made out of a single, very large, log. They are located at 13708 Ave of the Giants

Myers Flat, CA .

6. Sundial Bridge, Redding

One of the coolest man-made constructions in Northern California is this bridge in Turtle Bay. Not only is it beautiful and a fun place of town to visit, it's a working sundial! It's located on the Sacramento River Trail at Turtle Bay.

7. Castle Crags State Park

This state park is a fun place to get out and hike around, but it's also one of the most iconic and recognizable sights as you drive up and down I-5. The first time you drive through here, you'll be craning your neck trying to get a better view.

8. The Immortal Tree near Redcrest

If you ever doubted the awe-inspiring nature of the redwoods, one visit to the Immortal Tree located 1 mile north of Redcrest on the Avenue of Giants will have you convinced. It's survived lightning, a logger's axe, a forest fire, and a major flood. That's one strong tree.

9. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox at the Trees of Mystery...

... and located in the logging town of Westwood, Ca.

Both sets of statues are located in areas with a strong lumberjack traditions, and it's a fitting way to pay homage to the generations of loggers who have shaped Northern California's history. It's fun to visit them both and compare differences. Are there any other Paul and Babe statues out there we should know about?

10. Old Shasta City off Highway 299

If you have the chance to tour the ruins of this ghost town, do it! There are plenty of interpretive signs explaining each empty building. It's located 6 miles west of Redding along Highway 299.

11. The Ken Fox Gold Miner statue in Auburn, CA

If there's one statue that perfectly commemorates the Northern California gold rush, it's this one located in the heart of Gold Country. It's even cooler to see kids climbing all over it and how it's totally part of the community. It's located on Lincoln Way in Auburn.

How many of these places have you seen in person? What else would you add to the list?