California, known as the Golden State, is the third largest and most populous state in the United States. With a diverse history encompassing the former territory of Mexico, the gold rush, and leadership in the movie, music, tourism and hi-tech industries, California has its major cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose/Silicon Valley and San Diego but much more. This long stretch of sun-kissed Californian roadway is one of the most famous in the world. Featured in movies, television and millions of photographs, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, is the United States west coast ride of a lifetime.