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California's Great National Parks

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8 Day California Tour to Death Valley, Yosemite, and Sequoia National Parks

8 days, 1 country and 6 cities

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners

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Larger-than-life sequoias frame your path through the Land of the Giants - experience the natural wonders of California National Parks. Gain fascinating insight and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you meet a climber within Yosemite National Park to learn first-hand about the world of climbing and important conservation efforts. Have lunch with a Local Specialist in Sequoia National Park and learn about the timeless nature that abounds and later admire the stars above in a guided stargazing experience. Bask in the beauty of Mammoth Lakes and see the stunning Death Valley National Park.

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Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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8 days itinerary trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles visiting 1 country and 6 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Visit Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Death Valley National Park, Giant Forest Museum, High Roller Las Vegas

View Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park, General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park, General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park

See El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls

Scenic Drive Along Tioga Pass (seasonal)

Tickets Included Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

All transport and transfers shown

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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California and National Parks

Get to know the real California on this scenic guided tour. Soak in magnificent vistas, sunny beaches, the culture of San Francisco, the glamour of Los Angeles, and the awe-inspiring majesty of the most popular national parks in California. You can also add an extension to continue your journey to San Diego.

You can’t help falling in love with  San Francisco . You’ll understand why people consider it one of California’s most scenic and culturally vibrant cities when you see the Golden Gate Bridge and Coit Tower.

To experience the majesty of nature, you can’t do better than  Yosemite . Granite rock formations like Half Dome, and the pristine Yosemite Valley, are so beautiful they’ll take your breath away. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are next door neighbors with matching sets of towering redwood groves. The  world’s tallest trees  are surrounded by over 1,000 miles of stunning wilderness.

If you’re a beach person, Santa Barbara is a dream come true. Southern California’s easygoing charm is at its brightest in this sunny retreat. Los Angeles, the hometown of the entertainment industry and a capital of glitz and glamour, truly needs no introduction. From the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, the City of Angels is more than ready for its closeup. Experience it all on this tour of California and its most popular national parks.

• Drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and visit the iconic Pier 39 in San Francisco
• See the massive sequoias and redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• Visit the Giant Forest, home to General Sherman, the world’s largest tree
• Explore Yosemite National Park, where you will see the towering and world-famous Half Dome
• Visit the Santa Barbara Mission and the Getty Center
• Visit Hollywood and Santa Monica while on a panoramic city tour of Los Angeles

Alcatraz Island Tour & Pier 39 Dinner

Explore the island of Alcatraz.

Santa Maria Wine Tasting

Sample some of the finest California wines on this guided tour.

Activity level

• Very Active

Tour Includes

Sightseeing

• San Francisco
• 17-Mile Drive
• Yosemite National Park
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Sequoia National Park
• Pismo Beach
• Santa Maria
• Santa Barbara
• Los Angeles

Hotel Accommodations

• Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 9 Breakfasts
• A professionally trained tour director who is knowledgeable about the area will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

• To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

San Francisco, California

Los Angeles, California

Welcome to San Francisco! Guests who have purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations will be welcomed in the baggage claim area by a friendly YMT representative who will arrange your transfer to the hotel.

Spend the day at your leisure in one of California’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. Enjoy diverse cuisine, incredible museums, parks, and dazzling architecture. The city is also home to historical landmarks including the colorful Victorian Painted Ladies, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the island prison of Alcatraz.

Hotel Caza or similar

Add-On : Alcatraz Island Tour & Pier 39 Dinner

This morning, head down the breathtaking 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy views of Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, taking the opportunity to snap a picture of the Lone Cypress on a quick stop before arriving in Monterey. Enjoy a city tour of the once-gritty waterfront town immortalized by John Steinbeck’s classic novel, Cannery Row. (B)

Holiday Inn Express Monterey Bay Seaside or similar

Make your way to Oakhurst, a three-hour drive from Monterey. With scenic views of rolling hills, verdant forests and the rugged coastline, this promises to be an enjoyable drive. (B)

Fairfield Inn Oakhurst-Yosemite or similar

Visit the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. This magnificent and diverse land with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 13,000 feet abounds with spectacular granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, lush meadows, and towering trees. Discover Yosemite Valley, where you will find Half Dome, the park’s most recognizable feature. The iconic granite formation rises more than 4,700 feet above the valley floor. (B)

Wyndham Visalia or similar

Head west to the coast, stopping in Pismo Beach for lunch on your own. Spend the afternoon in Santa Maria, a city famous for its distinctive redoak smoked barbecue! (B)

Best Western Plus Big America or similar

Add-On : Santa Maria Wine Tasting

Visit Santa Barbara—the American Riviera—and enjoy its Spanish mission style architecture, mild Mediterranean climate, and stunning ocean views.

Take a self-guided tour of the lovely Santa Barbara Mission, where you can enjoy some of the best views in town. The “Queen of the Missions” is known for its magnificent twin bell towers, sprawling gardens, and the ocean views it enjoys from its position on a hill overlooking downtown Santa Barbara.

Continue to Los Angeles, where you will stop at the Getty Center. Enjoy amazing city views from this architecturally stunning art museum before a late afternoon arrival at your hotel. (B)

Sonesta Los Angeles Airport or similar

Today we take a guided tour of Los Angeles and Hollywood, seeing many of the highlights of the City of Angels. See Beverly Hills, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the ornate TCL Chinese Theatre, and more. Enjoy an included farewell lunch on the Santa Monica Pier, which has endless views and its very own amusement park. (B, L)

Add-On : Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

San Diego, California

Hotel Zephyr or similar

Discover the bustling “City by the Bay” during a morning panoramic tour. Look out at Alcatraz, see Nob Hill, and catch a glimpse of Lombard Street along with many more exciting sights!

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, San Francisco’s idyllic and much smaller neighbor. Enjoy lunch on your own and an included tour of this artistic enclave. Many of Sausalito’s residents live in house boats in the bay. Spend the evening relaxing in San Francisco, or join us for an optional sunset bay cruise and lively dinner at Pier 39. (B)

Hilton Garden Inn Monterey or similar

Visit the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park. This magnificent and diverse land with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 13,000 feet abounds with spectacular granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, lush meadows, and towering trees. Discover Yosemite Valley, where you will find Half Dome, the park’s most recognizable feature. The iconic granite formation rises more than 4,700 feet above the valley floor. Half Dome’s sheer cliff face is nearly vertical, making it irresistible to the world’s best rock climbers. (B)

Continue to Kings Canyon, where you will find ancient giant sequoias and redwoods in Grant Grove. At the center of Grant Grove is the General Giant Tree, the second largest tree in the world. This 3,000-year-old wonder stands almost 270 feet tall with a base circumference of 107 feet! With terrain ranging from sun-soaked foothills to alpine forests, a huge variety of wildlife calls this national park home. Look out for animals including gray foxes, bobcats, marmots, eagles, and bears. (B)

Take a pleasant drive to the thick forests of Sequoia National Park, which is adjacent to Kings Canyon and just as magnificent. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and administered by the National Park Service along with Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia is home to the largest living single-stem tree in the world. General Sherman stands 275 feet tall with a diameter of 25 feet and is a centuries old display of the power of nature. The Giant Forest, where you’ll find General Sherman, contains five of the ten largest trees on Earth. (B)

Take a self-guided tour of the lovely Santa Barbara Mission, where you can enjoy some of the best views in town. The “Queen of the Missions” is known for its magnificent twin bell towers, sprawling gardens, and the ocean views it enjoys from its position on a hill overlooking downtown Santa Barbara. Continue to Los Angeles, where you will stop at the Getty Center. Enjoy amazing city views from this architecturally stunning art museum before a late afternoon arrival at your hotel. (B)

Holiday Inn LAX or similar

Note: For the Jun 27 departure The Getty Center will be on Day 9 and the Los Angeles/Hollywood tour will be on Day 8.

Your San Diego extension begins with a memorable train ride down the coast. From Los Angeles’ famed Union Station, travel on the Pacific Surfliner to San Diego. Your non-escorted extension to California’s southernmost city is the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and beachy vibes at your own pace. (B)

Embassy Suites San Diego Bay or similarr

Explore San Diego at your leisure. San Diego is the quintessential California beach town, with amazing sightseeing, food, and activities available year-round. Enjoy the beach, the historical Gaslamp district, or some of the numerous museums and zoos in and around San Diego. (B)

Embassy Suites San Diego Bay or similar

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

Inquire Now

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare. Passport required.

Add airfare?

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.

Yes, triples are permitted (depending on availability) in 2 beds.

You should arrive in San Francisco no later than 4pm.

No, none are required.

You will visit locations that are higher elevations (6,000-7,000 ft).

For tips on managing altitude sickness, please read our blog .

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Call us for pricing, and remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Explore one of the most infamous maximum-security prisons in the world, Alcatraz. Visit the Cell House and see where criminals such as Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly and “Birdman” Robert Shroud were held. Tonight’s dinner will be at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. on Pier 39. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal and one of the best views in San Francisco.

• Alcatraz Island Tour
• 3-course dinner at Bubba Gump featuring a choice of entrées: Captain’s Fish & Chips, Coconut Shrimp,Half Rack of Ribs and Chicken Combo followed by Chef’s Choice of Dessert. Tax & gratuity included.

Note: The distance from the dock on Alcatraz to the Cell House which is located at the top of the island is about 1/4 of a mile and the elevation change is 130 feet . In the Cell House, there is an elevator to provide access to the second story. There is an uphill walk to visit the prison on Alcatraz Island. At the dock will be the accessible tram (S.E.A.T), which transports visitors with mobility impairments to the Cell House. This is provided on a first come first serve basis only, not guaranteed.

Duration : Approx. 6 hours (evening)

Activity Level: Active

Price: $115 USD

Famous for its wine industry, Santa Maria is a beautiful small city located in California’s Central Coast region. Enjoy learning about and sampling California wines.

• Wine tasting – 5, one ounce pours of their 5 most popular wines: Pinot Noir Rosé, Estate Chardonnay, Estate Pinot Noir, GSM, and Cabernet Sauvignon (subject to change)

Note: This is only available for 2024 tours

Duration: 1.5-2 hours (evening)

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $29 USD

Explore over a century of Hollywood history and witness more in the making. During your visit, you’ll see where some of the most celebrated motion pictures and TV shows are made. Enjoy a classic Hollywood studio cart tours of historic and active backlot sets and prop warehouse.

• Paramount Studio Tour entrance and guided golf cart tour

Duration: 3 hours (Morning)

Price: $99 USD

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How to visit all of California's national parks in one epic road trip

Mar 14, 2022 • 12 min read

A road trip to California’s national parks will show you the best of the state’s stunningly diverse landscapes © Albert Pego / Shutterstock

California is romanticized for its sparkly Pacific oceanfronts, thickets of palm trees and glass-walled high-rise buildings in the big coastal cities. But the state consists of so much more than its famed southern coast.

If you go north, inland or even offshore, you’ll be treated to dazzlingly unique terrain, insanely diverse ecosystems and eyebrow-raising history lessons — all of which you can experience through the nine (yes, nine!) US national parks in the Golden State.

Each of these parks represents a distinct piece of California’s beautiful, multifaceted puzzle. Here's how to visit them all in a single trip that you’ll talk about — to anyone and everyone who will listen — for the rest of your life.

Breaking down the itinerary

• Total parks visited: nine
• The parks: Joshua Tree National Park, Sequoia National Park, Death Valley National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Pinnacles National Park, Yosemite National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Redwood National and State Parks, Channel Islands National Park
• Total trip time: 17 days, starting from Los Angeles
• Total mileage: 2,003 (may vary depending on your exact route and road closures)  

Day one: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree  National Park

Leave LA in the morning, and travel 131 miles to Joshua Tree, where you’ll camp.

Day two: Hang out in Joshua Tree 

Spend the day in Joshua Tree National Park; camp here for a second night.

Where to stay

Joshua Tree National Park has several campgrounds. Take your pick, but book far in advance if your trip will take place between October and May — the cooler months are busy in the desert parks. If you want to lodge, check for availability in the nearby towns of Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms.

Need-to-know

Desert weather can change suddenly. It’s not uncommon for dampened fires to reignite when nighttime winds fan the embers. Make sure to fully put out your fire, and secure any items that may fly away in strong winds. 

How to get around

Joshua Tree is a relatively small park and easy to navigate. Park Blvd runs through the entirety of the park, with offshoots to get to attractions. You can drive your vehicle to almost all of them, and trailheads too.

What to do while you’re here

Joshua Tree has several hikes ranging from easy to hard, and ample rock-climbing and bouldering opportunities. One fun thing to do in Joshua Tree is drive down Park Blvd to see the flora shift from Joshua Tree groves to thickets of yucca cacti.

Day 3: Joshua Tree to Death Valley  National Park

Leave Joshua Tree in the morning and drive 228 miles to Death Valley, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 4: Take in the scenery in Death Valley 

Spend the day in Death Valley National Park; camp or lodge here again.

Death Valley National Park has primitive and full-hookup campgrounds, and lodges  ranging from basic to luxurious. All but one of the campgrounds are first-come, first-serve, but you need reservations for a lodge.

Camping is probably not the best option if you visit Death Valley in the summer months — temperatures can remain high, up to 100ºF (38ºC) throughout the night, and spike as early as 9am. It's not a great idea in the middle of winter either, when temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

The best way to get around Death Valley is by car. Highways stretch far and wide throughout the park, along with offshoot roads to get to attractions and trailheads. The National Park Service recommends keeping hiking to a minimum in the summer, due to extreme temperatures.

Walk out to the biggest, sparkliest dunes at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes ; drive Artists Drive to see mountains in shades of seafoam and mauve; visit Badwater Basin (the lowest place on earth at 282ft below sea level); and check out Ubehebe Crater on the north side of the park.

Day 5: Death Valley to Sequoia National Park

Leave Death Valley in the morning, and travel 268 miles to Sequoia National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Sequoia offers incredible camping opportunities, with both primitive and developed campgrounds. There is one developed lodge in Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge , as well as a primitive lodge maintained by an NPS partner.

The road between Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park can close during the winter due to snow. If you plan to visit during the winter months, check for road closures and adjust your route as needed.

Generals Highway traverses the entire park; you’ll drive your vehicle to and from all trailheads and attractions. There are parking areas along the way, though parking can be tough to find in the summer.

You’ll never be able to do everything in Sequoia National Park in just a day or two, but you can get a good idea of what the park has to offer. Spend some time romping around Giant Forest to understand the sheer size of Sequoia's trees; hike to Little Baldy for a relatively quick trek with a fantastic payoff; and see the huge  General Sherman Tree (the world’s largest tree by volume).

Day 6: Sequoia to Kings Canyon  National Park

Spend the day in Sequoia; move on to Kings Canyon National Park (48 miles) in the evening, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 7: Spend time in Kings Canyon

Spend the day in Kings Canyon National Park, then drive 112 miles to Yosemite National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Like Sequoia, Kings Canyon National Park has both camping and lodging options . Make reservations in advance and check to ensure your vehicle isn’t too large for the campground you book.

It seems like Sequoia and Kings Canyon are one and the same, but the parks do have defined borders — they are connected by Generals Highway, but closures can occur. Check the driving guidelines from the NPS to make sure your route and vehicle are appropriate. Depending on your vehicle and the season, you may have to exit Sequoia and drive around the park to get to Kings Canyon.

You’ll get around mainly by vehicle in Kings Canyon National Park, hopping out to travel on foot for hikes and attractions.

See General Grant , the second-largest tree in the world; walk up 172 steps to Buck Rock’s dizzying 8205-foot lookout; and enjoy the view at Kings Canyon Overlook off Generals Highway.

Day 8: Explore Yosemite  National Park

Spend the day in Yosemite; camp or lodge here.

For quieter camping, camp on the east side of Yosemite near or in Tuolumne Meadows . If you want to lodge, you can choose one of the many options within the park .

Two main roads in Yosemite, Tioga Road (Hwy 120) and Glacier Point Road, close in the winter due to snow. They usually reopen in May or June — plan your trip accordingly. If you want to see wildlife, spend more time in the Tuolumne Meadows area, rather than the valley.

Yosemite is well-developed, with many roads, paved walking trails, boardwalks and unpaved trails. There is also a shuttle system in the valley area. If you visit during the summer, be prepared for congested traffic and trouble with parking. Getting around by bike or foot is typically easier during the summer months.

Yosemite has so many attractions that it can be tough to choose which ones to see. With limited time, see  El Capitan and Half Dome from the valley floor, hike Tuolumne Meadows Trail to Soda Springs , or raft down the Merced River (summer or spring). For an expansive view of the famous granite structures, drive to Tunnel View on Wawona Road.

Day 9: Yosemite to Lassen  Volcanic National Park

Leave Yosemite by early afternoon and travel 301 miles to Lassen, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 10: Stay overnight in  Lassen

Spend the day in Lassen Volcanic National Park; camp or lodge here.

There is only one lodge in Lassen Volcanic National Park , Drakesbad Guest Ranch , but there are many campgrounds . Most campgrounds require advance reservations, and some are first-come, first-served.

Park Highway (Hwy 89) closes past the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center during the winter months. The visitor center itself can also close during winter storms. While in the park, stay on established trails and boardwalks. Hydrothermal areas can be disguised and dangerous, and visitors who travel off-trail can suffer severe burns.

Lassen Volcanic National Park has several roads running through the park, but they can all close due to snowfall. The NPS highly encourages checking road conditions before you visit, or simply visiting after roads are cleared in April.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is quintessential northern California: It shows off with glistening mountain lakes, snowy peaks, and lush meadows. But the park’s real claim to fame are the boiling hydrothermal areas and volcanoes. Backpacking, hiking, biking and auto-touring are popular activities for seeing the attractions.

Day 11: Lassen to Redwood National Park

Leave Lassen Volcanic National Park by mid-morning; travel 177 miles to Redwood National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 12: Mess around in the Redwoods

Spend the day in Redwood National Park; camp or lodge here again.

Redwood National Park — technically known as Redwood National and State Parks — has eight basic campground cabins but very limited lodging. If you want a real roof over your head, consider staying outside of the park in nearby communities.

The campground cabins tend to book up several months in advance, so if you're keen to stay in them, be sure to plan well ahead of your trip. 

The park is mostly oriented around US Highway 101, the corridor that runs north and south along most of California. Many other roads, including designated scenic drives, run throughout the park. 

Marvel at some of the tallest known trees in the world, obviously! Aside from craning your neck to attempt to see the tops of coastal redwoods, biking, hiking, horseback riding and kayaking the Smith River (summer only) are popular activities.

Day 13: Redwoods to Pinnacles National Park

Leave the Redwoods by early morning and travel 437 miles to Pinnacles National Park, where you’ll camp or lodge.

Day 14: Escape the crowds at Pinnacles

Spend the day in Pinnacles; camp or lodge here again.

There is only one campground at Pinnacles National Park , and it’s on the east side of the park. The east and west sides of Pinnacles are not connected by road — only by hiking trails. If you plan to camp, make sure you enter on the east side through Hollister, California. You can lodge in Soledad, California, if you plan to enter on the west side.

On this trip, you only have time to enjoy one side of the park. Plan accordingly. Both the east and west side offer great hiking trails and California condor viewing, though the cave attractions differ.  

Highway 146 takes you into the west side, while highway 25 takes you into the east side. Both highways weave through the park for a few miles, and then it’s mainly foot traffic from there.

Pinnacles is one of the smaller national parks in California and has very limited facilities. Its lack of development makes for quiet hiking and uninterrupted wildlife-viewing. Make sure you shimmy through Bear Gulch Cave (east side) or Balconies Cave (west side), and look into the sky to see some condors (the largest land birds in North America!).

Day 15: Pinnacles to Ventura

Leave Pinnacles National Park and travel 233 miles to Ventura, California.

Day 16: Ventura to Channel Islands National Park

Make a reservation for an Island Packers tour to Channel Islands National Park. Head back to Los Angeles after the day tour, or stay in Ventura for another night.

Ditch your car or camper van for a night (it'll be safe in Ventura Harbor, or you can pay to park in a nearby garage) and take a park concessionaire boat to the island. Pitch a tent in one of the park's lush campgrounds or venture into the backcountry — but watch for ticks, and seal your food in rodent-proof containers. You can also opt to return to the mainland on the same day and lodge in the beachside town of Ventura.

There are no remedies for poor planning at Channel Islands National Park , so make sure you bring enough food, water, clothing and other supplies. You must reserve your Island Packers tour in advance — it’s likely that you’ll have to plan your entire trip around this day, because tours are limited and fill up fast.

You'll need fresh legs for a visit to the Channel Islands, as there's no transportation service on the islands. Everything must be accessed by foot or kayak, unless you have a private boat.

Island Packers boats most commonly go to Santa Cruz Island , the largest island in California at over 96 sq miles. On Santa Cruz, you can go hiking, bird-watching, snorkeling, kayaking and whale-watching. You can also peruse old Chumash Native American residences and ranching quarters from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Day 17 (optional): Return to LA

Travel back to Los Angeles (68 miles).

You might also like:   15 unforgettable experiences in US national parks    Why you should drive California's scenic Highway 395 The best free things to do in the US national parks   

This article was first published February 2020 and updated March 2022

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Explore the Golden State of California and get ready for some fun in the never-ending sun.  

Forget dreaming about California - explore it instead! With its breathtaking national parks, expansive  desert landscapes , and vibrant cities, wandering through this sunny state is guaranteed to gift you with some pretty special memories. Whether you fancy wandering along  San Francisco ’s coastline, navigating your way past giant waterfalls in Yosemite , or spotting stars in Los Angeles , our California tours are not only full of fun, but full of the best cultural activities the United States has to offer. From appreciating Mother Nature’s beauty to marveling at impressive man-made structures, your local leader will show you these destinations through an Intrepid lens for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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California travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to California

There are a number of ways to get into California including flying to various airports both big and small such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Where you fly into largely depends on what area of California you plan to spend your time in.

You can also drive into the state of California or catch public transportation, such as taking a bus or catching a train. 

What's the weather like in California?

California has a very Mediterranean climate with hot, relatively dry summers and mild winters. This kind of weather pattern is mostly true for the majority of areas in California but there are some exceptions such as San Francisco experiencing fog in spring, the Sierra Nevada Mountain Ranges experiencing snow, and Palm Springs experiencing extreme heat. 

What to pack for California

What to pack for California largely depends on which area in the state you're traveling to. However, if you're traveling in summer you should pack clothing items such as dresses, shorts, and t-shirts as Californian summers can be quite warm.

While the temperatures in winter are quite mild, you should still be prepared for colder weather especially in the evenings so packing pants, sweaters, and appropriate footwear is essential. 

Is it safe in California?

As a state, California has a higher crime rate than the USA on average. This is largely due to the crime rates in the major cities of California being quite high. This is to be expected though and as long as you're aware of your surroundings and stick to well-populated tourist areas, it is fairly safe. Precautions should still be taken though, that of sticking to well-lit areas, avoiding going out at night by yourself, and leaving a bar/attraction if you feel uncomfortable. 

How many theme parks are there in California?

California has several theme parks in various major cities including Los Angeles and San Diego. Some of the most popular theme parks in California are below: 

• Universal Studios Hollywood 
• Six Flags Magic Mountain 
• California's Great America in San Francisco 
• Pacific Park 

How many national parks are in California?

California has 28 national parks, all located in different regions of the state. Redwood National Park is the largest national park in California and is located on the Northern Coast. The most popular national park is Yosemite thanks to its stunning natural landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and other geological features. Some of the best national parks in California are below: 

• Yosemite National Park 
• Joshua Tree National Park 
• Death Valley National Park 
• Sequoia National Park 
• Point Reyes National Seashore 

How far is California from...?

California is a very popular state among tourists thanks to its sunny weather all year round, metropolitan cities, and impressive natural landscapes. These tourists can come from neighboring states or from across the country in a variety of ways including by car or by plane. The quickest way to travel to California is by catching a flight but you can also opt for a 'road trip' style car journey. Below is how far California is from its neighboring states by plane: 

• As Arizona is relatively close to the state of California, the flight time is roughly 1 hour, 18 minutes. 
• The journey by plane between Colorado and California is just over 2 hours. 
• To travel between Texas and California, it would take you approximately 3 hours by plane. 
• Catching a flight from New York to California will take you a little of 5 hours if you were to fly non-stop. 
• Similarly, to travel between Florida and California will take you 5 hours by plane.

What are some of California's biggest festivals/events?

There is plenty to see and do in California and these top events will occupy you for, not just hours, but days: 

• BottleRock Music Festival
• Stagecoach 
• Lightning in a bottle 

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

THE 10 BEST Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park Tours & Excursions

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Yosemite and Sequoia: John Muir's California

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• Small Group

Year, Departure Type

Select small group departures (averaging 24 Tauck guests), or classic departures, and the year you would like to travel.

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• 2024 Small Group
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• 2025 Small Group

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Filmed vignettes by filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan that tell the stories of the history and ideals of the people behind the creation and preservation of the national parks

Meet a naturalist from the Sequoia Field Institute to hear stories about John Muir's discovery of the Giant Forest before discovering it yourself on guided walks, drives and a hike to the top of Moro Rock

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Explore the incredible landscapes of Muir Woods, Sequoia and Yosemite national parks, from the famed Giant Sequoias and redwoods to mountains, lush forests, amazing waterfalls...

Discover the night sky over Sequoia National Park as a naturalist guides you through the spectacular constellations that are visible in the absence of "light pollution"

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

At his first breathtaking view of Yosemite in 1869, young John Muir had a life-changing moment – a surge of euphoria as he wandered, overwhelmed in the great natural beauty of a landscape unlike anything he had seen before…

Sequoia national park at night, observe the night sky over sequoia national park with a naturalist.

When John Muir first wandered into the Sierra Nevada in 1869, the power of the otherworldly landscape – cathedral-like groves of towering Sequoias, glacier-clad mountain peaks, plunging canyons, crystal lakes and torrential waterfalls – transformed him forever. The self-made naturalist and conservationist then made it his mission to explore and document every natural wonder in the region, including what he called the "Giant Forest" – today's Sequoia National Park. During your visit, a naturalist from the Sequoia Field Institute reveals how Muir found and documented his "Giant Forest" in 1875, and another guides you through the spectacular constellations that fill Sequoia's night skies in the absence of "light pollution."

Stay inside Sequoia and Yosemite national parks

Enjoy multiple-night stays at acclaimed lodgings in sequoia and yosemite national parks.

On Tauck's "Yosemite and Sequoia: John Muir's California," you'll experience these two great national parks of the West as a true insider, with multiple-night stays at sought-after lodgings situated right inside the parks – the contemporary cedar and stone Wuksachi Lodge® in the heart of Sequoia National Park; and the magnificent Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly The Ahwahnee®), a historic 1920s gem set amidst the treasures of Yosemite National Park.

Fairmont San Francisco

Grace and grandeur atop san francisco's nob hill.

With a panoramic view of the city and the Bay from high atop Nob Hill, Fairmont San Francisco presents an unmatched blend of an ideal location, luxurious accommodations and superb services in the heart of this extraordinary city… and has done so for over a century, since its opening in 1907… exactly one year after the great San Francisco earthquake.

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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Sequoia National Park, California

The Ahwahnee

Yosemite National Park, California

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

Yosemite & Sequoia: John Muir's California begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are frequent traveler to the U.S. from Canada, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 60 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $350 per person

59-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., we suggest that contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases for which you might be at risk when you reach your destination in the U.S. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

Most decisions regarding your choice of sightseeing activities will be made at the beginning of your journey at an orientation meeting with your Tauck Director, who will explain procedures as well as provide guidance to make choices.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey! You can view the reading list  here .

The coastal climate of San Francisco is cooler than the desert-like conditions of inland California where the heat of the day may drop 30 °F (17 °C) by evening. The average high temperature along the coast in summer is approximately 67 °F (19 °C); the average low temperature is 52 °F (11 °C). The average high temperature in Yosemite in summer is 87 °F (31 °C); the average low temperature is 52 °F (11 °C).

You may encounter occasional fog in San Francisco and along the coast; it can be quite breezy and a bit chilly in the summer months.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The coastal climate of San Francisco is cooler than the desert-like conditions of inland California where the heat of the day may drop 30 °F (17 °C) by evening. We suggest that you dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light sweater and jacket will provide warmth on a chilly early morning walk or a late night stroll. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required. Most important are lightweight walking shoes with ankle support. You may even opt for hiking boots or all-weather shoes as temperatures can fluctuate from snowy to high heat even across the same dates due to the differences in elevation on this itinerary. You may come across muddy or even snowy conditions depending on time of year.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Hiking boots or all-weather shoes
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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8 Day California Tour to Death Valley

United States

Las Vegas, Death Valley, Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Los Angeles

3 Dinners, 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunchs

Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience included advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community. As the world’s leading tour company and trusted by more than 5 million guests, Trafalgar tours are simply the best value for your vacation dollar.

National Parks Tours

Explore the breathtaking beauty of the National Parks in the USA. See the wonders of Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and more with local experts who provide insights into the park's history, geology, and wildlife. From magnific geysers to breathtaking vistas, these guided tours offer an unforgettable experience in the heart of America's natural treasures.

Larger-than-life sequoias frame your path through the Land of the Giants - experience the natural wonders of California National Parks. Gain fascinating insight and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® as you meet a climber within Yosemite National Park to learn first-hand about the world of climbing and important conservation efforts. Have lunch with a Local Specialist in Sequoia National Park and learn about the timeless nature that abounds and later admire the stars above in a guided stargazing experience. Bask in the beauty of Mammoth Lakes and see the stunning Death Valley National Park.

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Day-by-day itinerary

Begin your exploration in Las Vegas. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception before soaring 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the High Roller, the world's tallest observation wheel.

A true must-see. Live “Viva Las Vegas” from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall ...

Iconic Experience

High Roller Las Vegas

A true must-see. Live “Viva Las Vegas” from the sky as you hop on the High Roller, North America's tallest observation wheel standing 550 feet tall. The 30-minute ride offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the glittering lights and neon signs of the Strip below.

Immerse yourself in the solitude and desolation of Death Valley— a UNESCO World Heritage Site and barren, yet unexpectedly lively land of extremes which we will have an opportunity to explore for part of today. Admire scenic views of the undulating rocky landscape at Zabriskie Point and learn about the valley's unique geological features, history and intriguing weather patterns. Descend below sea level to the Badwater Basin. After lunch at 1849 Restaurant at The Ranch at Death Valley, we continue through the desert landscape of Death Valley ascending to Mammoth Lakes, our home for the night.

You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover ...

Death Valley Sightseeing Tour

You’ll truly feel the solitude and vastness of Death Valley today as you head out on a guided tour of the park’s most famous sites. You’ll discover the unique geological features of Death Valley, a land of sand dunes and volcanic craters, intriguing weather-patterns, and the highest-recorded temperatures in the United States.

Take a scenic Gondola ride to the peak of Mammoth Mountain (seasonal) and enjoy the stunning views while you enjoy a tasty breakfast. Enjoy a scenic drive on the June Lake Loop for your first peak at the bright blue waters of June Lake. The alpine scenery of Aspens and willows is a feast for the eyes along this winding road before lunch on your own at Lee Vining. Touch the clouds through the Tioga Pass (seasonal) and enter the UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park. Driving past Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows, journey to Yosemite Valley. Our Stays With Stories accommodation tonight includes a cozy lodge atmosphere and is located just a stone’s throw from Yosemite Falls.

Tioga Pass: weather conditions may cause Tioga Pass to be closed to traffic, typically from mid-October to the end of May. In this case, an alternate entry point to Yosemite will be used entering through the west side of the park and Mammoth Lakes overnight will be replaced with Bakersfield or similar. This overnight change will affect sightseeing for this day.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

About the Hotel

Yosemite national park, united states.

Stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge located close to Yosemite Falls in the middle of the national park.

Trafalgar Difference

Ascend Mammoth Mountain by gondola and enjoy the stunning views over a tasty breakfast.

Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola

Explore Yosemite National Park, famed for its ancient sequoia trees, grand meadows and iconic rock formations. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet a naturalist through the Yosemite Conservancy who will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite, sharing fascinating stories, photographs, demonstrations and a look at climbing gear. Learn about the science behind the emotions climbers feel when inching up a wall. Afterwards, you can explore Yosemite Valley's El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks or Bridalveil Falls at your leisure. The rest of the day is yours in Yosemite where the possibilities are endless.

Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and ne ...

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Meet a Climber with the Yosemite Conservancy

Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and new climbing gear, as well as ask questions about how they help improve trails, restore habitat, protect wildlife, and inspire the next generation of nature-lovers, and more.

This Make Travel Matter experience targets United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 Life on Land improving, protecting, and conserving wildlife and/or restores natural ecosystems

After departing Yosemite, get ready for a unique Be My Guest Experience incorporating mindfulness while embracing the outdoors over a guided Forest Bathing meditation followed by lunch. Then, stretch your legs in Kings Canyon National Park and gaze towards the sky as you greet the giant boughs of General Grant Tree. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Kings Canyon before you continue along the Majestic Mountain Loop. Towering redwood trunks frame your journey to Sequoia National Park where you’ll spend the night in your Stays With Stories accommodation surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and spend the evening gazing upwards at the star-spangled sky as a local naturalist guides you through the constellations.

The Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of Sequoia National Park surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks. 

Wukasachi Lodge

Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy ...

Stargazing in Sequoia

Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy spills out across the broad Sequoia sky, an explosion of stars, planets and infinite questions. Spend the hour touring constellations, galaxies, planets, and the history of human space and exploration.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience Forest Bathing, an immersive practice that uses all your senses to connect with your surroundings. Meet your host ...

Be My Guest

Be my guest at tenaya lodge.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience Forest Bathing, an immersive practice that uses all your senses to connect with your surroundings. Meet your host Susan Madden, certified meditation instructor, labyrinth facilitator and forest bathing guide. To help you create a more peaceful life, Susan's scientifically proven practices have been shown to improve health. Begin with a simple meditation before learning the fundamentals and science behind Forest Bathing. Following the presentation, sit down to a plated meal at Tenaya Lodge for conversation and storytelling with Susan.

Tread in the footsteps of giants, walking beneath the soaring sequoia canopy to see first-hand the world’s largest living tree, General Sherman. Learn about the Giant Forest and its history during a stop at the Giant Forest Museum, then enjoy a leisurely walk along the Big Trees Trail, connecting with the invigorating natural surroundings before meeting up with a Local Specialist and Old West pioneer reenactor for an insightful lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the park on your terms, using the complimentary shuttle system (seasonal).

Immerse yourself in the pioneer history of the Old West, joining a living-history reenactor and Local Specialist for a lunch and stories of early life in the mountains.

Dive Into Culture

Sequoia Lunch With a Local Specialist

Descend the Sierra Nevada mountain range into southern California for an unrivaled view of the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. You will enjoy a visit to Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world, for your chance to find your favorite celebrity's Hollywood Star. As our encounter with California’s epic natural beauty comes to an end, join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a Farewell Dinner.

After our tremendous journey through California's national parks, the time has come for us to say goodbye. Prepare to leave Los Angeles International Airport at your leisure or consider extending your stay.

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About this trip

What to expect, hand-picked hotels.

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

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9 days from $3,765.

Frequently Asked Questions

The National Park system was launched when Congress established Yellowstone National Park in the Territories of Wyoming and Montana. Since this preceded statehood for both territories, they were placed under federal management within the Department of the Interior. Today, the National Park System administers 419 parks! Here are some quick facts about our top national parks in the USA. 

If you're planning to go on a tour of the USA's national parks, there are several important things to know to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some key tips:

Pack Appropriately:

• Depending on the time of year and location, weather conditions can vary greatly. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and appropriate footwear for hiking.
• Don't forget essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit.

Stay on Marked Trails:

• Follow marked trails and paths to protect fragile ecosystems and your own safety.
• Venturing off marked paths can harm plants, disturb wildlife, and increase the risk of accidents.

Wildlife Safety:

• Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe animals from a distance.
• Never feed wild animals, as it can alter their natural behaviors and potentially lead to dangerous encounters.

Leave No Trace:

• Follow the principles of "Leave No Trace" by packing out all trash, minimizing your impact on the environment, and respecting the natural beauty of the parks.

Photography Etiquette:

• Take photos responsibly and without disturbing the environment or other visitors.
• Avoid climbing on delicate formations for the sake of a photo.

Cultural and Historic Sites:

• Respect cultural and historical sites within the parks. Do not touch or disturb artifacts or structures.

The climate and weather in the USA's national parks can vary significantly due to their diverse geographical locations and elevations. It's important to note that the weather can be unpredictable in many national parks, so it's wise to be prepared for changing conditions. Always check the weather forecast before your trip, especially if you plan to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. Additionally, higher elevations tend to have cooler temperatures, and conditions can change rapidly, so be sure to pack accordingly and follow park guidelines for safety.

Here's a general overview of the climate and weather considerations for some of the top-visited national parks:

Yellowstone National Park:

• Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
• Summers are short and cool, while winters are cold with heavy snowfall.
• Weather can change rapidly, even within a single day.
• Snow can be present even in summer at higher elevations.

Grand Canyon National Park:

• Located in Arizona.
• Summers are hot on the canyon floor, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
• Winters can be mild at the bottom but cold at the rim. Snow is possible at the rim.

Yosemite National Park:

• Located in California.
• Mild temperatures in the valley during summer, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations.
• Winters can bring snow to the valley floor and heavy snowfall at higher elevations.

Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Located in Colorado.
• Summers are pleasant, but temperatures can drop at night due to high elevation.
• Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, especially at higher elevations.

Zion National Park:

• Located in Utah.
• Summers are hot, particularly in the narrow canyons.
• Winters are mild in the lower elevations but can be snowy at higher elevations.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Located in Tennessee and North Carolina.
• Experiences a temperate climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters.
• Rainfall is common, contributing to the lush vegetation.

Glacier National Park:

• Located in Montana.
• Short, cool summers with temperatures varying significantly depending on elevation.
• Winters are cold with heavy snowfall, and many areas remain inaccessible due to snow.

Bryce Canyon National Park:

• Summers are warm during the day and cool at night.
• Winters are cold with significant snowfall, creating a unique snowy landscape.

Acadia National Park:

• Located in Maine.
• Summers are mild and pleasant, but fog can be expected along the coast.
• Winters are cold, and snowfall is possible.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage : Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag : *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

• *Please note : A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a trip to Alaska will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Still, it requires careful consideration due to the diverse climate and activities you might encounter. Here's a comprehensive list of packing tips to ensure you're well-prepared:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction are essential for exploring park trails.
• Layering is key: Bring a variety of lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers to adapt to changing weather conditions.
• A warm jacket: A waterproof and insulated jacket will be essential for colder days.
• Rain gear: Bring a waterproof jacket, pants, and even a rain cover for your backpack/camera to stay dry during unexpected rain showers.
• Fleece or sweaters: These provide extra warmth and can be worn over base layers.
• Quick-dry pants: Opt for comfortable pants that dry quickly if they get wet.
• Gloves and mittens: Pack lightweight gloves or heavy mittens for colder days.
• Hats: A warm beanie and a sun hat with a wide brim for sun protection.
• Polarized sunglasses for glare reduction and eye protection.

Sun Protection:

• Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring "Reef-Safe" sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly .

Medications and First Aid:

• Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
• Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

• Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
• Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
• A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

• A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone . However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
• Mobile phone.
• Chargers for each electronic you bring.
• Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
• Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

• A travel-friendly daypack or bag is useful for carrying essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and any extra clothing layers during excursions.
• Insect repellent can be essential, especially in parks with dense foliage or during warmer months.
• Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet , and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
• If you have a National Park Pass or any tour-related documents, keep them easily accessible.
• Carry a copy of your ID, passport, or driver's license, especially if you're staying in lodges within the park.
• A small travel alarm.
• A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
• A travel pillow.
• Light sleepwear.
• A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here !
• Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember that the specific items you pack may vary based on the park you're visiting and the activities planned during your guided tour.

Since you are traveling within the USA, you won't need to worry about voltage and plug type differences. Just pack your electronic devices as you would for any domestic trip, and you'll be all set to enjoy your guided tour in the United States!

It's important to keep in mind that the focus of national park lodges is often on providing a comfortable and immersive experience that aligns with the natural surroundings. Depending on the lodge's location and the park's preservation priorities, the amenities offered might differ from what you'd find in a typical hotel. As well, the availability of amenities such as air conditioning and hair dryers in national park lodges can vary widely based on the specific lodge and park you're visiting. 

Here's a general idea of what to expect:

Electricity

• Voltage and Plug Type : As an American traveler, you won't need a voltage converter or plug adapter for your electronic devices within the country.
• Compatibility : Since you are traveling within the USA, your electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and camera chargers, should be compatible with the standard voltage and plug type used in the country. You can use your regular chargers and power cords without any issues.
• Hotels and Accommodations : Most hotels and accommodations in the USA provide electrical outlets compatible with American plugs. You won't need to worry about adaptors or converters within the country.
• Airports and Public Places : Airports, train stations, and other public places in the USA will have outlets that match the American standard, so you can quickly charge your devices while on the go.
• On the Go: We highly suggest bringing a portable power bank for charging devices on the go. You can charge it each night and pack it for your excursions during the day. There's nothing like missing that photo when your camera dies!

Air Conditioning:

• Many national park lodges are located in areas with cooler temperatures or higher elevations, where air conditioning is not as commonly needed.
• However, some lodges in warmer regions or lower elevations might offer air conditioning, especially if the climate calls for it.

Hair Dryers:

• National park lodges often prioritize preserving the natural environment and minimizing their ecological footprint, so some lodges might not provide hair dryers in rooms.
• However, larger lodges or those near more developed areas might offer hair dryers as part of their room amenities.
• If having a hair dryer is essential, check with the lodge in advance or consider bringing a compact, travel-sized hair dryer.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are not included or available on tours that operate in the United States. Guests will be provided local transfer options after booking so they can make their travel arrangements from the airport to the hotel and vice versa. Learn more about Airport Transfers here .

So that you can personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. Optional programs are designed to help you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

Traveling on a guided tour can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it's essential to prioritize your health and safety while exploring new territories.  Staying informed, prepared, and cautious will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Always stay in touch with your Travel Director and always follow their recommendations.

Here are some health advice and recommendations for travelers:

Visit the Doctor : Before embarking on your trip, schedule a visit with a medicine specialist or your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized health advice based on your medical history and current health status.

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.

First Aid Kit : Carry a basic kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and any prescribed medications.  

Stay Hydrated : Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, and rest in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medications and carry them in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications .

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these. 

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of $1.00-$2.00 USD per person/half day. You can always ask your Travel Director if there will be any need to bring cash along to tip someone that day. 

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/day is listed in your travel documents.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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California Tours & Trips

Live the high life with a California vacation package! Snap a photo of the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, cycle the nation's most iconic bridge in San Fransisco, or venture to the land of geysers and mountains in Yellowstone National Park, there's so much to discover in this Golden State.

151 California tour packages with 1,070 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

California Express - 3 Days

the tour was very well organized, the tour guides were great!

• In-depth Cultural

Wild West – 5 days

Overall, fantastic tour. Our tour guide Jacob was excellent, very knowledgeable and helpful. However, the hotel on third night was mediocre at best ( we had to spend the whole night on a smoke filled room, that after having changed from another even worse room. I thought all the hotel rooms are no smoking zones). I hope the company can improve on that for future tours. Apart from that, it was a truly memorable tour. Highly recommended.

• Hiking & Trekking

California National Park Discovery

the tour itself was amazing. The national parks do not disappoint. The travel accomodations were very cramped and uncomfortable. I am only 5 foot tall and I was cramped in this 14 passenger van. Food opportunities were limited.

Vegas to San Fran

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Hard working and efficient CEO. Camping sites were ok - facilities not working well. Stated iteniary changes - hiking options (unavoidable) and drop off at end of tour (would have been helpful to know sooner). Beautiful area to experience - some hikes too difficult for me unfortunately. I will look more closely at the rating in the future.

Hiking in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is breathtaking. As I walked along the hikes that we went on, many times I did not know which direction to look since there was so much natural beauty.

• Coach / Bus

Northern California (8 Days)

Every aspect was well planned, tour guide & driver were courteous & knowledgeable

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Golden West Adventure

Great Tour Leader and Driver, Jake and Allan. Great bunch of fellow travellers. Scenery and itinerary was perfect, loved every minute of my tour

4 Day Death Valley Yosemite San Francisco from Las Vegas Lodging

Thank you Chelsea A++++ Death Valley to Yosemite to San Francisco Tour seeing all the sights, hiking and just being so well taken care of by our AWESOME TOUR GUIDE Chelsea!!! I would highly recommend and really be ready for a lifetime experience of nature and beauty from desert to mountains to sea!! THE VERY BEST OF TIME I HAD as a solo traveler!!!!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

4 Day Death Valley Yosemite San Francisco Camping

Yosemite was a dream! Yosemite was amazing! 3rd tour with Bindlestiff. Haley was a fun guide and got us from place to place safely. The campgrounds were great and close to the parks. Having a tour guide makes traveling so much more relaxing. You don't have to stress about planning anything or do the driving. Definitely recommend these tours.

Yosemite & Tahoe Sierras - 4 Days

We had a wonderful 4 days trip and very enjoy it. Our guide Katry did an exvellent job. she loved her job and took care the customers very well. We hope we have future tours with your company again.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Golden State Getaway: 9-Day California Calling Tour to Los Angeles, Yosemite, and San Francisco

Verry nice but a bit stressfull

USA - California Express

USA - Wild West

La Paz - Active

What people love about california tours.

Great guides, scenery, driver and comfort level. Just enough to whet our appetite for another Tour Radar tour in the future.

I love my tour guide Pasquale. He is the most sweetest, friendliest, kind, generous, and genuine tour guide I know. He really knows everything during my trip. He’s very easy going and I had the best experience ever in the 5 days I was traveling. Amazing experience and I would highly recommend Pasquale if you wanna travel with him and experience so much travelling for Wild West tour. Thank you so much an amazing and unforgettable experience.

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The 21 Best California Tours

Make the most of your time in the Golden State with one of these top-rated tours.

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Explore California's cities, coasts and cultures on these tours.

With its beaches , lakes , mountains, vineyards and national parks , California is full of unforgettable experiences. But its sheer size can feel overwhelming, even for the seasoned traveler. Relying on the knowledge and expertise of a local can help you make the most of your visit. After consulting traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News compiled the best California tours. Whether you want to savor a glass of wine in Napa Valley or marvel at Yosemite's peaks, there's a tour for you.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

San Francisco: Painted Ladies Tour Company – San Francisco City Tour

Cruise around San Francisco in a vintage Volkswagen bus with the Painted Ladies Tour Company. On the two-hour San Francisco City Tour, which welcomes up to seven participants, you'll see sights like Lombard Street , Union Square , Chinatown , the Golden Gate Bridge and more. Plus, you'll make three stops for photos. Tourgoers say this is a fun and unique way to sightsee around San Francisco and describe the guides as funny and well-versed in the city's history.

Ticket prices start at $85 for adults and $65 for kids ages 1 to 12. Discounts are available for seniors ages 65 and older. Tours are generally available multiple times a day from 8:30 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. They depart from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square. The company also offers tours of Sonoma in its signature Volkswagen buses.

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Los Angeles: Six Taste – Downtown LA Food Tour

According to reviewers, the Downtown LA Food Tour from Six Taste is a great way to start off your Los Angeles visit. During the roughly four-hour tour, you'll enjoy more than seven tastings as you traverse 12 city blocks. In between bites, your guide will share information about the city's art deco architecture and its unique history. Plus, you'll pay a visit to the Grand Central Market – LA's largest and oldest public market. Tastings on the tour may include Cantonese barbecue pork, gelato, homemade pasta and French dip sandwiches, among other dishes. Note that the tour is not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets.

Tickets cost approximately $75 per person. Tours are generally available on Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. Craving more? Six Taste offers a variety of tours in other parts of the city, including the Arts District and Santa Monica .

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Napa: Platypus Wine Tours – Napa Valley Join-In Tour

You and up to 11 other participants will visit three wineries within Napa Valley on this popular shuttle tour. Wineries visited vary by the day, but you can expect to stop at small, intimate locations, such as Tedeschi Family Winery and Hans Fahden Vineyards. Travelers highly recommend the tour, citing the personable, informative guides as highlights. Reviewers are also pleased with the wineries visited. Tours are generally available daily, departing at 10:30 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m.

Tickets start at $119 per person and include round-trip Napa hotel transportation, a picnic lunch and bottled water. Note that winery tasting fees are not included and generally cost $20 to $25 a person. The company also operates winery tours through Sonoma, in addition to private tours.

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San Diego: San Diego Seal Tour

According to reviewers, the San Diego Seal Tour is a great experience, whether you're traveling with your family or by yourself. During the approximately 90-minute excursion, you'll cruise through the streets of San Diego in an amphibious vehicle before splashing into the San Diego Bay. As you keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, seals and dolphins, your captain and first mate will offer an overview of San Diego history. Along the way, you'll pass by attractions like the USS Midway Museum , Point Loma and Shelter Island. Tours depart on the hour from downtown's Seaport Village from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter.

Ticket prices start at $44 per adult, $25 for kids ages 4 to 12 and $10 for children 3 and younger. You can take advantage of a slight discount if you purchase your tickets online in advance. Tickets that combine a Seal tour with a tour on the Old Town Trolley are also available.

Los Angeles: Pedal... or Not – LA Electric Bike Tour

Cycle your way through sunny Santa Monica on this three-hour electric bike tour. Along the way, you'll see Santa Monica Pier , Venice Beach , Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals, among other sights. According to tourgoers, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the bikes are easy to use. Though the bike allows you to switch between pedaling and using the electric motor, the company still recommends that participants be comfortable riding a bike. The company provides helmets.

Tours are generally available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $79 per participant ages 13 and older. Children younger than 13 cannot participate in the tour. You can also book this as a private tour for between two and six riders. Tickets for the private tour option start at $99 per person.

San Diego: Flagship Cruises and Events – San Diego Full Bay Harbor Cruise

Enjoy views of the Coronado Bridge , military ships, waterfront landmarks and marine life on this two-hour cruise around San Diego Bay. Along with 360-degree views of the harbor, you'll also enjoy live narration from the crew, who share details about San Diego history and the military ships that dock in its harbor. Cruisers call this a must-do in San Diego, praising the views and interesting narration. Reviewers say this is a great thing to do on your first day in San Diego.

Tickets cost approximately $35 for adults, $32 for seniors and military members and $17.50 for children ages 4 to 12. Tours depart from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. every day, though there may be fewer cruises in the winter months. If you're short on time, you can opt for the company's hourlong cruises, which sail around either the north or south harbor. Whale watching excursions and dining cruises are also available.

San Diego: San Diego Whale Watch – Whale Watching Tour

San Diego offers travelers the rare opportunity to observe whales migrating through its nutrient-rich waters year-round. For help spotting these magnificent sea creatures, hop aboard a tour with San Diego Whale Watch. The company's three-hour whale watching cruise features live narration from a certified marine biologist, along with indoor and outdoor seating, a snack bar and beverages. Reviewers report spotting plenty of whales and dolphins and praise the clean boat. Others say the crew is well-versed in the bay's marine life and describe the trip as educational.

Morning tours depart at 9 a.m.; afternoon tours depart at 12:30 p.m. Tickets start at $48 for adults and $44 for children 17 and younger and seniors 62 and older. Sunset cruises are also available.

Santa Barbara: Sustainable Wine Tours – Shared Wine Tour

If you're interested in visiting the private vineyards and estates in Santa Barbara 's wine country , consider this seven-hour tour. You and up to seven other travelers will stop at wineries that use small-production techniques and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable, organic and biodynamic agriculture. Travelers say this is a great tour if you want to visit small, family-owned wineries. Reviewers are complimentary of the accommodating, expert guides and say this tour is much more than a wine tasting since you have the chance to meet the producers and owners.

Tickets, which include tasting fees and lunch, start at $193 per person for tours offered Sunday to Friday and $218 per person for Saturday tours. Tours are generally available daily, with pickups beginning at 10 a.m. Private wine tours are also available.

Palm Springs: Big Wheel Tours – Joshua Tree National Park Jeep Tour

If you're visiting Palm Springs and looking for a rugged adventure, consider this Joshua Tree National Park Jeep tour. You'll ride through the Little San Bernardino Mountains on backcountry trails through the Colorado and Mojave deserts, reaching an elevation of 4,000 feet. Reviewers say the views are incredible and highly rate the guides, who they say provide an engaging commentary about the park's history and the animal and plant species that call it home. Set aside at least four hours for the entire experience.

Tickets cost approximately $180 per person. Tours depart twice daily at 7:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. and include round-trip hotel transportation from select area hotels. If you're looking for an experience that still gets you out in nature, but isn't as adrenaline-fueled, consider the company's biking and hiking tours.

Carmel: Carmel Food Tours – Carmel-by-the-Sea Classic Food Tour

Taste your way through Carmel on this three-hour food tour. Stops along the way may include a farm-to-table restaurant, a bakery, a honey company and a tavern, for a total of up to seven tastings. As you digest between each location, your guide will share stories of Carmel's history and architecture, and offer recommendations for the remainder of your visit. Travelers are particularly impressed with the guides, who they describe as smart, funny and informative.

Tours are generally available Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m., though an additional Thursday morning tour is offered from May to October. Tickets cost approximately $110 per person. If you'd prefer to explore Carmel on two wheels rather than your own two feet, consider the company's Carmel Bikes, Bites & Bevs tour.

Monterey: Monterey Bay Whale Watch – Daily Trips

The Monterey Submarine Canyon offers a rich feeding ground for whales, which is why travelers can often spot these gentle giants year-round. Though you may be able to view whales from the shore, a boat tour like the ones offered by Monterey Bay Whale Watch is the best way to see them. Four-hour morning cruises and up to 3 1/2-hour afternoon cruises are offered all year long. January through March is the best time to see gray whales, dolphins and killer whales, while humpback, blue and killer whales can often be spotted April through December. Reviewers appreciate the onboard marine biologist and the cleanliness of the boat. Many call this the highlight of their trip to Monterey .

Ticket prices vary by season and by day of the week, but generally, tickets for adults start at $65 for a morning trip and $60 for afternoon tours. For children ages 4 to 12, prices start at $53 for a morning outing and $48 for an afternoon excursion. Children 3 and younger can join for $15. Winter cruises depart at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with additional tours at 9 a.m. and noon on select Saturdays and Sundays. Spring, summer and fall tours depart at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Eight-hour and 12-hour trips are also available on select days.

Yosemite: Discover Yosemite – Yosemite Full Day Tour

According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see the highlights of Yosemite in a short amount of time. During the daylong (up to nine-hour) bus tour, you'll see some of the park's top attractions , including Half Dome , Vernal Fall , El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall , among other sights. Tourgoers rave about the expert guides, who they describe as knowledgeable, accommodating and interactive. The tour offers round-trip transportation from communities surrounding Yosemite, including Bass Lake, Coarsegold, Oakhurst and Fish Camp.

Ticket prices vary by season. From Dec. 1 to March 31, tickets start at $180 for participants ages 16 and older and $90 for kids ages 3 to 15; from April 1 to Nov. 30 tickets start at $190 for travelers 16 and older and $95 for children. The cost includes the tour, water, lunch and park fees. Discover Yosemite also offers private tours of the park, among other options.

Los Angeles: A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

If you only have a limited amount of time in Los Angeles, consider this daylong bus tour. Over the course of the 7 1/2-hour excursion, you'll see some of the top attractions in Los Angeles, including the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Original Farmers Market and more. Along the way, your driver (who also doubles as your tour guide), will provide information about the history and current culture of Los Angeles. For many reviewers, their guide's insightful and entertaining commentary was the main reason they'd recommend A Day in LA Tours. Others praise the pacing and organization of the tour and say this is a great way to see a large portion of the city in a short amount of time.

Tours depart daily at 9:45 a.m. Tickets for adults start at $104 and $94 for kids ages 12 and younger; children 2 and younger can tag along for free. The tour price includes bottled water and round-trip transportation from your Los Angeles hotel. The company also offers a version of this tour that departs from Anaheim – perfect for if you need a day away from Disneyland .

San Francisco: Cruisin' the Castro Walking Tours – LGBTQ Castro Tour

If you've ever wondered how San Francisco's Castro District became synonymous with gay culture, you'll want to add this tour to your itinerary. During the two-hour LGBTQ Castro Tour, you'll learn how the LGBTQ community dates back to the California gold rush, the history of the iconic rainbow flag and the AIDS epidemic. Among the sites you'll visit are Harvey Milk Plaza and the Rainbow Honor Walk. Tourgoers applaud the guides for their informative and engaging storytelling and say the tour is an important, and at times emotional, experience if you're interested in LGBTQ and San Francisco history.

Tours are available Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday at 10 a.m. Tickets start at $30 for participants ages 5 and older. The company notes that adult situations and sexual content are referenced during the tour, so parental discretion is advised. Tours meets at the corner of Castro and Market streets.

San Francisco: Best Bay Area Tours – Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip

According to reviewers, the Hidden Gems of Yosemite Day Trip is a great addition to any San Francisco visit. The tour, which is limited to 15 participants, picks you up at your San Francisco hotel before taking you on a scenic drive to the national park. Once inside the park, you'll enjoy free time at famous sights like Yosemite Falls where you can either follow the company's hiking suggestions or simply enjoy a picnic. From March to November, you'll also enjoy a guided hike through the Tuolumne Grove . Tourgoers speak highly of the passionate guides, who they describe as experts in all things Yosemite. What's more, reviewers say guides are quick to share their favorite photo spots and even play photographer. In total, the entire excursion lasts about 14 hours.

Tickets, which include round-trip hotel transportation, cost approximately $200 per person ages 13 and older and $150 per child 12 and younger. Lunch is not provided, but the bus will make several stops for tourgoers to purchase water, snacks and lunch. Best Bay Area Tours also offers trips to Sonoma, Sausalito and the Russian River Valley, among other locales.

San Francisco: Red and White Fleet – California Twilight Cruise

Many travelers call the California Twilight Cruise the highlight of their trips to San Francisco. During the 90-minute cruise, you'll sail past Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate and Bay bridges as you admire views of the San Francisco skyline. Reviewers recommend dressing warmly and arriving early to board so that you can score a seat on the top deck of the boat for the best views.

Tickets cost approximately $50 for adults and $40 for children ages 5 to 17. During the summer months, cruises depart daily; during the fall and winter months, trips are only available Thursday through Sunday. Departure times vary by month. Prefer to admire the city during the day? Red and White Fleet also offers two daytime cruises ranging from one hour to 90 minutes.

Sonoma: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley – Sonoma Wine Tours

Visit a total of three Sonoma wineries on this six-hour wine trolley tour. Each stop includes a semiprivate tasting with a winery representative who is on hand to answer any questions and give a background of the winery. Locations you may visit include Jacuzzi Family Vineyards , Mayo Family Winery and Valley of Moon Winery, among others. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the area and appreciate the knowledgeable, personable guides. Tours are generally available daily and depart from Sonoma Plaza at 10 a.m. You'll return to the plaza around 4:30 p.m.

Trolley tickets start at $115 per person. Note that while lunch and bottled water are included, tasting fees at the wineries are not; tasting fees range from $25 to $35 per person. If you do not pay the tasting fee, you won't be allowed in the winery. Tourgoers must be 21 years or older.

Los Angeles: Bikes and Hikes LA – Griffith Observatory Hike

Spending time in Griffith Park is one of the top things to do in Los Angeles. If you're intimidated by the park's more than 4,000 acres, consider signing up for the Griffith Observatory Hike from Bikes and Hikes LA. During the 2 1/2-hour, 3.5-mile hike, you'll trek to one of the highest peaks in the park, snap plenty of pictures of the iconic Hollywood Sign and enjoy skip-the-line access to Griffith Observatory. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable, entertaining guides and say this hike is strenuous, but manageable. Along with the views, travelers appreciate the amount of history guides share during the tour, as well their recommendations for other things to see and do in LA. Tours are available twice daily at 10 a.m. and sunset. The sunset tour meeting time varies depending on the time of year, but generally it departs at 3 p.m. from November to mid-March and at 4:30 p.m. from mid-March to November.

Tickets start at $28 per person. Note that the tour is only recommended for participants ages 6 years and older (strollers are not permitted). If you're short on time, the company also offers abbreviated 90-minute hikes. Prefer to explore on two wheels? Bike tours are also available.

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San Francisco: Extranomical Tours – Redwoods and California Wine Country Tour

Visit Muir Woods National Monument , Napa Valley and Sonoma on this approximately 10-hour daytrip from San Francisco. The guided bus tour includes time to explore the giant redwoods in Muir Woods, wine tastings in both Napa and Sonoma and plenty of photo stops along the way. Tourgoers rave about the guides, who they describe as engaging, funny and informative. Reviewers also assure that the tour never feels rushed and that you're given plenty of time at each stop to explore. Tours depart daily at 7:30 a.m.

Tickets start at $159 for participants ages 12 and older and $122 for children ages 6 to 11. Note: While tasting fees at the wineries are included, entrance to Muir Woods and lunch are not. You have the option to buy lunch on your own or pay extra to add lunch to your booking. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of excursions to Yosemite, San Francisco and Monterey.

Palm Desert: Red Jeep Tours – San Andreas Fault "Bones of the Earth" Jeep Tour

This tour manages to appeal to history buffs, geology nerds and adrenaline junkies all at the same time. During the three-hour Jeep ride, your guide will maneuver through the geological cuts and canyons of the San Andreas Fault Zone. You'll also get out and hike between the canyons, and enjoy a guided tour through a recreated Cahuilla Indian village. Reviewers describe guides as informative and say this trip offers much more than scenery – expect to learn about the geology of the area, as well as the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who once occupied this land. Tours are offered at 8 a.m. daily. An additional 1 p.m. tour is available from October to May.

Tickets start at $150 for adults ages 18 and older and $135 for children ages 3 to 17. The company also offers Jeep and hiking tours to Joshua Tree National Park and Painted Canyon, among other locations.

Los Angeles: Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warner Bros. Studio on this approximately three-hour tour. You'll cruise around the lot on a custom tour cart to see backlot sets and additional production areas. You'll also have free time to explore the "Stage 48: Script to Screen" exhibit, which includes the Central Perk set from "Friends," as well as "The Big Bang Theory" sets, classic costumes and more. Your tour concludes at "Action and Magic Made Here," which showcases recreated sets, props and costumes from the DC Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Reviewers give this tour high marks for its informative, entertaining guides. Tourgoers also praise the amount of sets, costumes and props on display.

Tours are available Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $70 for participants ages 11 and older and $60 for children ages 5 to 10.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Diego Tours
• The Best Hollywood Tours
• The Best Los Angeles Tours
• The Best San Francisco Tours
• The Best Resorts in California

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , California , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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How You See Yosemite Makes a Big Difference

• Don't Go It on Your Own—Let Us Take the Hassle Out! When you travel independently, you spend a lot of time researching, planning, asking questions, competing for reservations, or driving around trying to figure out where to go and what to do. As a result, you lose precious time and miss the special spots known only to locals. We’ve taken out the legwork and guesswork: because we’ve already researched everything, and we coordinate essential reservations far in advance, you'll experience much more than most people can accomplish on their own.
• Travel in a Very Small Group Now more than ever, you’ll find advantages in our intimate group size. While we cap our groups at 14, we further divide them into two smaller groups of no more than seven guests per vehicle, each with its own Expedition Leader. You won’t find a better guide-to-guest ratio!
• Immerse Yourself in a Full Week of Exploration  Most visitors to Yosemite pass through for a night or two. In contrast, our adventure gives you a deep dive into the park—we include a whole host of features that showcase Yosemite’s diversity and grandeur, because we know you don’t want to miss a single highlight.
• Meet Local Experts While our Nat Hab Expedition Leader is an expert in his or her own right, you'll also gain in-depth knowledge from special visits we have arranged with local experts, including a fire ecologist, a speaker from the Yosemite Conservancy, and significant Yosemite climbers.
• Spend Three Nights Inside the Park at The Ahwahnee The Ahwahnee Hotel is one of those iconic national park lodges where everyone covets a stay but few are lucky enough to land one. With us, you’ll get three nights in this matchless spot! Located on the valley floor in view of landmarks like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, The Ahwahnee is an exemplar of national park rustic style, as grand now as when it opened in 1927. Staying inside the park means we have access to highlights in the early morning and late into the evening, allowing us to enjoy special sights after crowds have left.
• Travel Tioga Road Over Two Days Famous Tioga Road, one of the highest drives in California, offers access to Yosemite's high alpine terrain, including Tuolumne Meadows. Our itinerary travels both east and west on this classic route, giving us varied vantage points and time to stop at more of the highlights along the way than a typical one-way, one-day traverse.
• Visit the Eastern Sierra & Stay at Mono Lake Most Yosemite trips don’t include a visit to the east side of the range. But we take you all the way to Mono Lake, and we spend the night so you can enjoy the lake at its most magical hours, sunset and sunrise, when the light is optimal for photography.
• Private Canoe Trip on Mono Lake Mono Lake is an alkaline environment with no natural outlet, fostering the formation of whimsical limestone pinnacles called tufa. On a private morning canoeing excursion when temperatures are cooler, observe these fascinating phenomena up close as you enjoy the early morning quiet amid the abundant birdlife.
• Expert Naturalist Guides Add Immeasurably to Your Experience Our Expedition Leaders are professional naturalists who know the Sierras like few others. With in-depth knowledge of Yosemite, they know where and when to be to maximize your experience of nature over crowds. They also have their own "secret" spots to share, which are off the most heavily touristed tracks. And they are intimately familiar with Yosemite's geology, flora, wildlife and history, enriching your experience in myriad ways. We can't emphasize enough how much difference their expertise makes to your overall experience. See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Yosemite Adventure With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, stating clearly that we will meet the lofty expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. We think this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise .
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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Nature-Led: Yosemite Guided Tours & Experiences

Covering 1,463 square miles, the rugged beauty of Mariposa County calls out for exploration. From the ethereal loop of Yosemite Valley’s waterfalls to eBiking the county’s labyrinth of fire roads, and from moonlit train rides to learning how to rock climb Yosemite’s signature granite, countless experiences await. Yet “knowing the ropes” can be a tricky proposition.  A tried & true approach? Booking a Yosemite guided tour and letting a local outfitter lead the way.

Why A Guided Tour?

Taking advantage of a local guide can result in a transformative experience where culture, history, and adventure come together seamlessly, and where “inside” knowledge of Yosemite Mariposa County’s great outdoors makes for a nature-led trip to remember. Here are the top reasons why a Yosemite guided tour makes sense.

• Tours cover a range of interests from sightseeing iconic landmarks to fishing and photography, and from wildlife viewing to history and wine tasting.
• Tours cover a range of physical abilities and fitness levels from riding in the comfort of a temperature-controlled vehicle to weeklong backpacking trips into the Yosemite backcountry.
• Some tours are ADA-approved, some are kid-friendly, and others welcome pets.
• Tours are available year-round, with some taking advantage of seasonal conditions such as whitewater rafting in spring and guided snowshoe hikes in winter.
• Costs range from value to luxury, meaning there’s always an option that fits your budget.
• Many operators will work with you to customize a private tour for individuals or groups based on your specific interests.
• Some tours provide add-ons such as free lunches, admission into Yosemite National Park, backcountry permits, and gear for use or rent.
• For driving tours, there’s nothing better than letting someone else take the wheel so you can enjoy the sights uninterrupted.

Classic Tours

It’s impossible to go wrong when touring Yosemite National Park, but there are always a few perennial favorites. The Yosemite Valley Floor Tour is a two-hour highlight reel of the Park’s geologic marvels, bouncy wildlife, and rich history. Led by park rangers and well-versed naturalists, the guided tour is available year-round via open-air tram in summer and heated motor coach with panoramic windows in winter.

Hiking & Backpacking Tours

There’s nothing like those first steps on a Yosemite trail. And having a trusted guide lead the way only makes the experience richer. YExplore Yosemite Adventures offers guided day hikes based on difficulty level (easy to strenuous), and backpacking tours from 2-6 days. Perfect for creating a new chapter in your backcountry backstory.

For outdoor empowerment, the guide-owned Echo Adventures Cooperative offers a variety of Yosemite adventures from sightseeing to summit hiking tours and fishing tours. EAC takes a socially and environmentally sustainable approach while providing gear, transportation, entrance fees, and most important of all — knowledgeable guides. Custom lunches are available for vegan/gluten-free guests.

Thrill-Seeking Tours

Where there are rocks, there are rock climbers. For epic granite-top adventures, the world-renowned Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been teaching visitors how to climb since 1969 with group and private classes. Whether you’re ready to graduate to the big walls such as El Capitan or want to start small, this Yosemite Valley institution has you securely clipped and ready to scale. For everything from gym-to-crag to multi-pitch and family climbs, Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides (SYMG) has been operating since 1991 and was voted one of the “Best Outfitters On Earth” by National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

The ultimate in thrill-seeking tours, Skydive Yosemite offers tandem jumps with licensed & experienced pros from 10K, 12K, and 14K feet while providing stunning views of the Sierra crest as well as Yosemite icons El Captain and Half Dome.

For an airborne experience that keeps the heart rate a bit more steady, Airborrn Aviation Services takes guests up in their Cessna, “Joy”, to soar above the Park’s signature landmarks. Tours are available for 1-3 passengers (520 lbs combined max) and can be booked for sunrise & sundown for a magic hour unlike any other.

With the Merced River gracefully weaving through Yosemite Valley and then plunging the westward slope of the Sierra, Yosemite whitewater rafting is a spring rite of passage for thrill-seekers worldwide.  Several licensed tour operators offer a range of packages from half to full-day trips, with lunches and gear provided. For many these tours are life-changing, and a highlight of their Yosemite experience.

Unique Tours

In keeping with Mariposa County’s independent spirit, its unique tours are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

For a pedal assist that’s good for the environment, Yosemite E-biking is the perfect alternative to car touring as you explore Mariposa, the gateway to Yosemite. From the laid-back streets of downtown to the surrounding Gold Rush history, and from exploring its many fire roads to rock climbing some classic Sierra granite, the tour possibilities are endless. All ages & experience levels are welcome!

Trains have played an important role in Yosemite’s history so it makes sense that visitors can ride the rails in style at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad . Located 2 miles from historic Fish Camp and the Southern Entrance to Yosemite National Park, the open-air cars are pulled by a vintage Shay steam engine as you weave through the forest and hear stories of the region’s colorful past.  Tours range from the one-hour “Logger” to the “Moonlight Special” — a ride under the stars that features dinner and campfire sing-a-long. Oh, and friendly dogs ride free! 

Tours Departing From San Francisco & Los Angeles

For visitors who’d rather not arrange a car rental or drive unfamiliar roads, several operators provide Yosemite guided tours departing from California’s major cities.

Incredible Adventures departs from San Francisco and offers day and overnight tours that range from Yosemite Valley’s greatest hits to walking among giant sequoias and winter escapes.  Extranomical Yosemite Tours picks guests up from most SF hotels and provides audio translations into eight different languages. Day trips and overnights are available, with accommodations at leading Mariposa County properties.

Serving Los Angeles, California Pacific Excursions gets eco-friendly with its Amtrak train and YARTS bus combo tour, as well as offering bus tours and private charters. Trips from 1 to 3 nights are available, not to mention one-way trips if your travel plans carry you on to forward destinations.

Yosemite Guided Tours: Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay while enjoying a Yosemite guided tour is an exercise in reverse engineering. Figure out your meeting spot for the tour, how you’ll get there from the property, and of course if the accommodations reflect your personal Sierra style. Some hotels such as Tenaya at Yosemite provide their excursions, while some tours offer ground transportation to/from where you’re staying. Be sure to ask your tour operator, and enjoy your stay in Yosemite Mariposa County!

Journey With Confidence

Yosemite’s inimitable “range of light” as captured in the dramatic photos by Ansel Adams can be found in equal measure by enjoying one of Yosemite’s many guided tours. From the tranquil snow-kissed months of winter through the flip-flop days of summer, and from photo safari tours to bird watching and wellness retreats, there is something for everyone. Check out our full list of Yosemite Mariposa guided tours and let nature be your guide!

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Epic California National Parks Road Trip: 2-Week Itinerary

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

The perfect two-week California national parks road trip to see the best highlights and experience the Golden State’s outdoor nature to the fullest.

I vividly remember my first introduction to each national park I’ve visited in California. 

The first time I saw a Joshua Tree up close and experienced the next-level nature of desert stargazing. 

Driving along El Portal Road on my way into Yosemite Valley, my skin prickling from the jaw-dropping scenery in front of me. 

That feeling of awe as a huge California Condor flew overhead while I was hiking through Pinnacles National Park. 

The national parks in California are memorable, to say the least, and all of them deserve a place on any California bucket list . 

That’s why I wanted to put together an epic road trip itinerary to hit the highlights of the California national park system in two weeks. 

In this itinerary, I take you through the heights of the Sierras to the lowest point in North America, as well as California’s most beautiful islands . 

Along the way, you’ll experience the best of California nature and what makes each of these parks so special. 

Here’s to having a national parks road trip of a lifetime, happy road tripping! 

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips. 

Table of Contents

How Many National Parks Are in California?

There are a total of nine national parks in the Golden State. This is the full list of California national parks :

• Redwood National and State Parks
• Lassen Volcanic National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park  
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Channel Islands National Park  
• Pinnacles National Park  

How Much Time Do You Need to Visit All of the National Parks in California?

California is a large state and its national parks are very spread out, so if you want to hit all nine I’d give yourself at least three weeks if not a full month. 

This two-week epic road trip itinerary takes you to 7 out of 9 of the national parks and is very doable, but if you want to add on more than that you should probably give yourself more time. 

If you don’t have two weeks and you just want to see the most popular national parks, such as Yosemite, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree, you could do a 5-day to one-week road trip instead. 

I have more road trip itinerary recommendations below for different lengths of time.

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

When’s the Best Time of Year to do a California National Parks Road Trip?

It depends on what you’re looking for, but my favorite time to do a California road trip around the national parks is either late spring or fall . 

Summer is the most popular time to visit the national parks, but it’s also when they’ll be at their busiest. And the ones in the deserts are impossibly hot at that time (Death Valley and Joshua Tree). 

Winter can be tricky if you’re visiting the national parks in the Sierras (Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and Lassen Volcanic National Park) because road closures are common due to snow.

There’s also less open in the winter so you don’t get the same atmosphere at certain parks. 

Spring, on the other hand, can be an ideal time for wildflowers , waterfalls, and nice weather without too much rain (especially in late spring). 

The fall will usually be warmer in California than in spring. In the fall, you’ll also be treated to fall foliage around the Sierras and reasonable temperatures at most places (for the deserts you might want to go in late fall though). 

Overall, different parks are good for different times of the year but if you’re looking to hit the most national parks in one go, spring or fall are the best seasons to plan your California road trip. 

• America the Beautiful Pass

If you’re doing a national park road trip, it’s worthwhile to grab an America the Beautiful Pass to save on the cost of the parks. 

The entrance fee for most national parks in California is around $35 per vehicle, so as long as you hit three different national parks the pass will pay for itself. 

The pass is good for a year and can be used at any other US national parks as well if you’re planning other out-of-state adventures this year. 

You can grab an America the Beautiful Pass here  

PS – you might also want to grab a national park passport just for fun!

California National Parks Road Trip from San Francisco

Day 1-3: san francisco to yosemite national park.

Distance: 179 miles, 3.5-hour drive

Note: since we’re skipping Redwood National & State Parks on this California road trip itinerary, you might want to visit Muir Woods to see the California redwoods before you leave or once you get back to San Francisco. 

Starting from San Francisco , you’ll make the 3.5-hour drive to Yosemite National Park. 

Once you make a right at Yosemite Junction, prepare yourself for a winding road up to the Sierras until you get to the Big Oak Flat Information Center. 

This is the western entrance of Yosemite National Park and you’re going to either be staying near this entrance or within the park for the next couple of nights. 

For this first day, you’ll probably only have a half-day to see the park after driving from San Francisco. 

Once you arrive, spend the rest of the day doing a mini road trip around Yosemite Valley and its surrounding areas to get your bearings and take in those jaw-dropping vista points. 

Here are a few vista points to go see: Lower Yosemite Fall, El Capitan Meadow, Valley View, Tunnel View, Washburn Point, and Glacier Point. 

Since you’ve already been in the car for a few hours, you can choose to do as few or as many of these as you want. 

Maybe you just want to have a picnic at Lower Yosemite Fall and watch the sunset at Glacier Point and call it a day, it’s up to you! 

This is your day to get out of the car and start hiking Yosemite’s popular trails. You have two options for today – a challenging long hike or a self-guided waterfall hiking tour. 

If you want to go with a challenging hike, hike either Half Dome (16.3 miles) or Clouds Rest (11.9 miles). 

Half Dome is the most famous hike in Yosemite, but you’ll need to really plan ahead and snag a permit to do the full hike and climb the cables at the end. 

Permits are done by lottery (the best way to enter is by doing the pre-season lottery from March 1st-31st on Recreation.gov ) so you’ll want to book early and there’s no guarantee you’ll get one. 

If you’re not able to get a permit for Half Dome, tackle Clouds Rest instead, which is just as beautiful and not as crowded. 

If you’re not up for that strenuous of a hike, I’d recommend doing a tour of Yosemite’s waterfalls through 1-3 trails. These are your options: 

• Bridalveil Fall Trail (0.5-mile) 
• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (1 mile) – Most family-friendly waterfall hike for those traveling with kids or with mobility issues. 
• Vernal Falls (2.4 miles) and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail (5.4 miles) 
• Wapama Falls Trail (4.6 miles) – You can also see Hetch Hetchy Reservoir here too. 
• Upper Yosemite Falls Trail (7.2 miles) 

Note: The best time to do waterfall hikes in Yosemite is during peak runoff in May or June. If you’re traveling outside of this time, these are still stunning hikes to tackle. Otherwise, I’d recommend the Mirror Lake Trail (2-5 miles) at any time of the year besides winter. 

For your last day in Yosemite, it’s time to check out the eastern side of the park in the Tuolumne Meadows area. 

Head over to Olmstead Point to start your day with a stunning viewpoint. Then, drive to Tenaya Lake to relax and have breakfast or an early afternoon picnic. 

Next, stop by the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center to grab a map and learn more about the area. From here, you can do a short walk to Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge .

If you’re not too tired from hiking the previous day, you can also tackle one of the many hikes in the Tuolumne Meadows area. 

The hikes around here take you through the subalpine meadow, as well as craggy peaks and calm lakes. In other words, they’re gorgeous. 

A few you could do include: Gaylor Lakes (2 miles), Lembert Dome (2.8 miles), and Cathedral Lakes (7.7 miles).

Once you’re done hiking, continue enjoying the scenic drive along Tioga Pass , taking your time and stopping to check out the views along the way. 

If you have extra time, drive just outside the eastern side of Yosemite National Park to spend an hour or so at Mono Lake . 

This is one of the oldest and most unique lakes in North America, featuring alien-like tufa towers. 

Looking for more to do? Read our guides to the best things to do in Yosemite , two days in Yosemite itinerary , and how to see the Yosemite Firefall .

Where to Stay in Yosemite

• Camping: Lower Pines Campground , North Pines Campground , Upper Pines Campground
• Hotels: Yosemite Westgate Lodge , Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite , The Ahwahnee 

Read our guide to the best campgrounds in Northern California .

Day 4-5: Yosemite National Park to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Distance: 147 miles, 3.5-hour drive

The drive from Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Parks is another 3.5-hour journey, so I’d recommend starting early from Yosemite and arriving at Kings Canyon National Park (your first stop) by noon. 

Note: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are two separate California national parks. However, they’re often grouped together because they’re located next to each other and administered together by the National Park Service.

Leaving from Yosemite Valley, don’t miss Mariposa Grove where you’ll find the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and some of the biggest sequoia trees in the world.  

At Kings Canyon National Park, you’ll have the chance to explore meadows, waterfalls, epic views, and Sequoia trees. Kings Canyon National Park is also home to the deepest canyon in the US (8,200 ft).  

Once you get to Kings Canyon, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway that starts around Dunlap on Highway 180 and goes until Road Ends. 

Along the way, there are plenty of sights to check out, including the Kings Canyon Visitor Center, Panoramic Point, General Grant Grove, Hume Lake, Junction View, Grizzly Falls (a good picnic area), and Zumwalt Meadows.  

You have all of today to explore Sequoia National Park at your leisure and there’s a lot to pack in. 

Sequoia National Park is another place where you’ll find some of the biggest trees in the world, as well as interesting rock formations, caves, viewpoints, and plenty of hikes.  

If you have the energy, start your day off with 1-2 hikes inside the park. Here are a few options: 

• Big Trees Trail (1.5 miles) 
• Tokopah Falls (1.7 miles) 
• Crescent Meadow Trail (1.8 miles)
• The Congress Trail (3 miles) 

And then spend the rest of your day visiting Moro Rock, General Sherman, and the Giant Forest Museum. 

If you have extra time, you can also sign up for a 45-minute tour of Crystal Cave, just reserve your spot at least two days in advance.

Where to Stay in Sequoia and King Canyon National Parks

• Camping: Lodgepole Campground , Dorst Creek , Azalea Campground
• Hotels: Waksuchi Lodge , John Muir Lodge , Cedar Grove Lodge  

Day 6-7: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks to Death Valley National Park

Distance: 311 miles, 5.5-hour drive

The next segment of your California national parks road trip itinerary will feel completely different from what you’ve done so far. 

You’re now entering the Southern California desert region and the first stop is Death Valley National Park – the most brutal and extreme California national park on this list. 

In fact, it’s the lowest and driest national park in the contiguous US. 

This is the longest driving day in terms of distance between parks, so make sure you budget enough time from Sequoia National Park to get to Death Valley while it’s still light out. 

Day 6 

On your way into the park, stop at Father Crowley Overlook where you can sometimes see fighter jets practicing overhead. 

If you want to pick up a map and learn more about the history of the area, your next stop should be the Death Valley National Park Information Center . 

Depending on what time of day it is and where the temperatures are at, you may just want to rest for the afternoon until it starts cooling off. 

Once it gets close to golden hour, head over to two of the park’s best viewpoints at Dante’s View and Zabriskie Point . 

Start your only full day in Death Valley as early as possible. 

Spend the morning at Badwater Basin , the park’s famous salt flats and the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. 

Take your time walking around this massive area and snap some pictures while you’re there. 

Right next to Badwater Basin, you can do the two-mile hike to Natural Bridge to look at interesting rock formations. 

Next up, you can visit Devil’s Golf Course , which is another unique salt flat near Badwater Basin. 

Nearby there’s also the 9-mile Artist’s Palette Drive , which features two viewpoints looking out over a rainbow-colored mountain.

If it’s not too hot yet, you can also do a hike at Golden Canyon (there are a few different hikes of varying lengths at the trailhead). 

Spend your last evening in Death Valley making the journey to Mesquite Sand Dunes . You can hike to the top of them (it takes about 20 minutes) for prime golden hour views. 

Looking for a more detailed Death Valley bucket list? Read our full guide to the best things to do in Death Valley National Park .

Where to Stay in Death Valley National Park

• Camping:  Furnace Creek Campground , Wildrose Campground , Mahogany Flat Campground  [But I’d only recommend camping at Death Valley if you’re visiting during the cooler months (October-April)] 
• Hotels: The Inn at Death Valley , The Ranch at Death Valley , The Oasis at Death Valley  

Day 8-9: Death Valley National Park to Joshua Tree National Park

Distance: 228 miles, 3.75-hour drive

Continuing your California road trip itinerary, it’s now time to introduce you to my favorite California national park – Joshua Tree! 

There’s really no other place like Joshua Tree. It spans two deserts (the Mojave and Colorado) and features alien-like landscapes and funky-looking cacti. 

It was the first place I realized how beautiful the desert can be. 

There’s a lot to see in and even on your way to Joshua Tree, so you’ll want to be on the road early for the four-hour drive through the desert. 

Make sure to fill up on gas when you can and enjoy the many unique sights the California desert has to offer. 

There are a few stops you can make on your way into the west entrance of the park. 

Make a stop at Pioneertown to see what was once a Wild West movie set turned live town, grab a coffee from Joshua Tree Coffee Company , and walk around the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Art Museum to see the beauty of “junk art.”

Once you get into Joshua Tree, you’ll probably have a few hours left to sneak in some sights before calling it a day. 

For your first introduction to just how beautiful the Joshua Tree landscape can be, head over to the Arch Rock Nature Trail .

This 1.2-mile trail takes you to an interesting rock formation in the middle of the desert shaped, as you probably guessed, in the form of an arch. 

Afterward, you can head over to Skull Rock and the Jumbo Rocks Campground to immerse yourself in the massive boulders and weird rock formations that make Joshua Tree such a fun place to visit. 

Next, head over to another one-mile loop at the Hidden Valley Nature Trail to take in even more desert scenery. 

Finally, end your day with a sunset at Keys View – a panoramic viewpoint that looks out over the Coachella Valley. 

Start your day early today to beat the heat of the desert and get in some hikes. 

You have a few options today for hiking around the park.

If you’re up for the challenge I’d recommend starting with the more difficult Ryan Mountain Hike (3 miles). It’s a steady uphill climb to get to the summit but the views at the top are worth the effort. 

Note: If you’d rather explore the other side of the park that features a slightly different landscape, head south instead of doing the Ryan Mountain Hike. In the southern part of the park, you can hike the Mastodon Peak Loop Trail (2.6 miles) or the Lost Palms Oasis Trail (7.2 miles) to get a different perspective of Joshua Tree. 

After the views at Ryan Mountain or doing a hike in the south, it’s time to tackle one or two of Joshua Tree’s most popular (and easier) trails – the Barker Dam Nature Trail (1.3 miles) or the Wall Street Mill Trail (2.4 miles). 

The Barker Dam Nature Trail gives you the highlights of the Mojave Desert and guides you through the landscape with interpretive displays. 

This is a good one to do if you want to learn more about the local flora and fauna or you’re traveling with young kids. 

However, if you’re a history buff interested in looking into Joshua Tree’s past, head to the Wall Street Mill Trail. 

Along the trail, you’ll find leftover remnants of another time in the form of rusted-out cars and a mill that’s in disrepair. There are also signs along the trail that teach you about the history of the area. 

This is actually my favorite hike in Joshua Tree if only for the interesting juxtaposition of abandoned cars in the middle of the desert.  

After you’re done hiking for the day, head over to the Cholla Cactus Garden to see the cute and fuzzy teddy bear cacti (just don’t give it a hug!).

These are also nicknamed “jumping cholla” cacti because they “jump” when you get too close, so please be careful and keep your distance from the cacti. 

If you have time, you can round out your day by touring Keys Ranch , which is a historic ranch and homestead that was once lived in from 1910 to 1969 by William F. Keys and his family. Just note that tours are only offered from October to May. 

Before hitting the hay, finish off the night with a warm cup of hot chocolate (or a hot toddy depending on your preference) and do some stargazing.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree National Park

• Camping: Belle Campground , Hidden Valley Campground , Jumbo Rocks Campground  
• Hotels: Pioneertown Motel , Joshua Tree Inn , Sacred Sands

Read my full guide to the best hotels near Joshua Tree  

Day 10-12: Joshua Tree National Park to Ventura & Channel Islands National Park

Distance to Ventura: 200 miles, 3.5-hour drive

Ventura to Santa Cruz Island: 1-hour ferry ride 

Oxnard to Anacapa Island: 1.5-hour ferry ride 

You’ve made it to the last leg of your national parks road trip, congrats! It’s finally time to head to the coast to check out California’s famous Channel Islands. 

Since ferries to the islands leave early from Ventura and Oxnard, I’d recommend using your road trip from Joshua Tree to Ventura as an excuse to see some nearby Southern California sights instead of trying to rush to the ferry in time. 

Once you arrive in Ventura, you have the option of staying on Santa Cruz Island for two nights or doing two-day trips – one to Anacapa and the other to Santa Cruz – to see more of the islands. 

Today is the perfect day to add some detours into your California road trip itinerary, especially since you’ll need to cross through the Los Angeles area anyway. 

Here are a few detour options you can make on your way to Ventura. 

• Whitewater Preserve – a scenic park in the desert that’s not too far from Joshua Tree. 
• Disneyland – You’ll want to get here early if you plan to visit, but this can definitely be a fun stop to break up the long hiking days and time in nature. 
• Spend the day around Los Angeles – Read my full list of 100+ Things to do in the city .
• Enjoy a mini Pacific Coast Highway road trip – You can hightail it over to the California Coast from Joshua Tree, and then do a mini highway 1 road trip starting around Dana Point and ending in Ventura. Check out my guide to the Pacific Coast Highway to find out where to stop along the way. 

It’s time to choose your adventure. You can either head to Santa Cruz Island today for two nights of camping or just do a day trip to Santa Cruz Island. 

I recommend starting with Santa Cruz Island because it’s close to the mainland and there are the most things to do for first-time visitors. 

On the island, you can book a kayaking tour to explore the island’s sea caves, go snorkeling in clear waters, spend the day at the beach, or hike around the island.  

Today, you’ll either continue exploring Santa Cruz Island if you’re camping there or you’ll do a day trip to Anacapa Island. 

Anacapa Island is another Channel Island that’s close to the mainland and offers good views, a touch of history, and some short hikes. 

There aren’t any accessible beaches on Anacapa but it’s a nice spot for a picnic and some coastal hiking. 

Where to Stay in Ventura: Amanzi Hotel , Waypoint Ventura , Crystal Lodge Motel

Where to Stay on Santa Cruz Island: Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground , Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground

Day 13: Ventura to Pinnacles National Park

Distance: 225 miles, 4-hour drive

You’ll end your California national parks road trip at the newest national park in the state – Pinnacles! 

Pinnacles is a small park so you can easily see a good chunk of its sights and viewpoints in one day. 

If you’re driving up from the south, I’d recommend hiking the 8.4-mile High Peaks to Balconies Cave Loop . 

This trail gives you the bulk of the park highlights and even lets you explore the Balconies Cave (if it’s open), just make sure to bring a headlamp! 

Also, keep your eyes peeled for California Condors flying overhead. They’re the park’s most famous residents and pretty incredible to see in person. 

If you don’t have time for an 8-mile trail, there are a number of shorter hikes you can do from the west side of the park as well. The best one is probably the 2.4-mile Balconies Cliffs to Balconies Cave Loop .  

Read my full guide to Pinnacles National Park

Where to Stay in Pinnacles National Park

• Camping: Pinnacles Campground
• Hotels: Inn at the Pinnacles , Valley Harvest Inn

Day 14: Pinnacles National Park to San Francisco

Distance: 145 miles, 2.5-hour drive

It’s time to head back to the starting point of your road trip today. 

Depending on your energy levels, you can just head back to San Francisco to rest up, grab some food, and maybe have a drink to cheers to an epic road trip. 

Or, if you want to squeeze in a few more sights, you can stop by Mission Soledad , the Steinbeck Museum in Salinas, and grab some garlic ice cream while driving through Gilroy. 

San Jose also has a lot of things to do if you’re looking for a more full day of sightseeing. 

Another alternative is heading to the coast and taking the longer but more scenic route back up to San Francisco along Highway 1. 

Where to Stay in San Francisco: Stanyan Park Hotel , Omni San Francisco , Argonaut Hotel  

California National Parks Road Trip from Los Angeles

If you want to do a national park road trip from Los Angeles, you can just reverse the above road trip itinerary and start from the bottom. 

I’d recommend the following order if you’re starting from Los Angeles: Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Yosemite National Park, Pinnacles National Park, and Channel Island National Park.

Other 14-Day National Park Road Trip Variations You Can Do

Winter: Redwood National & State Parks, Pinnacles National Park, Channel Islands National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, and Sequoia National Park (if you want to see red sequoias in the snow ).  

Summer: Redwood National & State Parks, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, and Channel Islands National Park.

Shorter Road Trip Variations to see California’s National Parks

5-Day Itinerary

From San Francisco: Yosemite National Park and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.

From Los Angeles: Joshua Tree National Park & Death Valley National Park.

7-Day Itinerary

From San Francisco: Lassen Volcanic National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks.

From Los Angeles: Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, and Channel Islands National Park.

10-Day Itinerary

From San Francisco: Yosemite National Park, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Death Valley National Park, and Joshua Tree National Park.

From Los Angeles: Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley National Park, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park.

Tips for Planning a National Park Road Trip in California

• Double-check the weather and air quality ahead of time – If you’re traveling in winter or early spring, check snow levels and make sure there aren’t any road closures (this is mostly for the Sierras). Wildfires are also always something to keep in mind when you’re doing a California road trip. They can, unfortunately, happen pretty much year-round these days, but it’s especially good to check air quality and any nearby fires in the summer and fall.
• Book things early – National parks are very popular in California, make sure to book your accommodation (especially if you’re staying at campsites or in the parks) at least three to six months in advance. 
• Fill up on gas and don’t always expect to have cell service – This is especially the case near the more remote parks like Death Valley, but make sure to fill up on gas when you can. Also, don’t expect a ton of cell service in a lot of the areas around or inside the parks. It’s good to download maps ahead of time so you can access directions even without service.
• The best parts of these parks are outside your car – Although some people visit national parks and barely get out of their cars, the parks in California are best experienced when you’re hitting the trails and immersed in the outdoors. Sure, you might be able to see some nice viewpoints from the road in parks like Yosemite, but it won’t beat getting out on the trail to really take in what these parks have to offer. 
• Leave no trace – This is just common courtesy when you’re visiting any place, but please pack out what you brought with you and leave no trace. We want to keep our national parks beautiful for years to come.

What to Pack for Your California Road Trip

• Driver’s license/registration
• Spotify/iTunes playlists
• Road trip snacks & extra water
• Hat that’s good for hiking
• Daypack for hiking
• Hiking shoes
• Lightweight and moisture-wicking hiking clothes
• Sandals or flip flops
• Good walking shoes
• Bathing suit
• Various tops , shorts , jeans/pants , dresses , underwear , socks , PJs (and at least one super comfy outfit for longer driving days) 
• Light sweater
• Windbreaker , puffy jacket , or backpacking poncho
• Beanie  
• First aid kit
• Reusable water bottle
• Microfiber towel
• Usual toiletries ( lip balm , hairbrush , hair ties , toothbrush , toothpaste , floss , deodorant , makeup , pads / tampons )
• Downloaded maps/paper maps
• Camera / phone
• Outdoor watch (like a Garmin watch )
• Portable charger / USB cord  
• Books or Kindle
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• Travel insurance

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more California travel inspiration? Check out these related posts below! 

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Most Beautiful Sunflower Fields in California

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Complete California National Parks Road Trip Itinerary

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Do you want to take an epic California National Parks Road Trip? I’ve got you covered

If you’re planning a road trip to California’s national parks, you’re in for a treat. I’ve personally taken this trip, and let me tell you, it’s an experience of a lifetime.

As someone who loves exploring the great outdoors, California’s national parks are some of the most breathtaking and diverse in the country. From the towering sequoias of Yosemit e to the rugged coastline of Redwoods National Park , there’s something for everyone on this trip.

But before you hit the road, plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable journey. In this article, I’ll share some tips and insights based on my own experience, so you can make the most out of your California national parks road trip. So, let’s get started and start planning your adventure!

Did you know that California has the most National Parks out of any state ? It makes sense when you see just what parks are in the Golden State, as well as the size and geographic variety of the state. While Texas and Alaska may be bigger, California is by far the largest state if you’re measuring North to South . Which is what gives it the variation in climate and geology. I know, that’s getting a little nerdy! But if you want to see the variety, you can in this California National Parks Road Trip.

This itinerary covers the 8 National Parks in California . However, depending on the time of year you visit, it may not make sense to hit them all in one trip. Use this as a guide to determine when and how you want to visit California. I’ll include suggestions on how to break this into more than one trip.

I did build this as a round trip from San Francisco. You could easily do this trip out of Los Angeles and start at the Channel Islands or go west and start at Joshua Tree. It’s also easy to start in San Francisco and end in Los Angeles. However, I know a round trip from one destination is usually a cheaper flight, which is why I created this as a circle tour.

Table of Contents

How to Plan a California National Parks Road Trip

To start a road trip this massive, it’s helpful to have a route planner. This could be Google Maps, where you can input multiple stops along a trip. However, I prefer Roadtrippers . With Roadtrippers Pro, I can add as many waypoints (or stops) as I’d like, and it automatically inputs the stop in the best place along the route. And if I don’t like it there, I can easily move stops around.

I used Roadtrippers to create this itinerary here, with some small modifications. My goal is no more than five hours on the road. However, California is vast, so there is a six-hour day in here. Plus, keep in mind, road conditions and estimates can vary.

You can learn more on how to use Roadtrippers here .

Moon Guide’s USA National Parks is another essential to getting the details of every park. The NPS site is good as well, but Moon Guides will tell you the best hikes, the top 3 sites in the park, what to do if you have one day, etc. It was an essential guide for some of the hikes I did on my recent trip to California.

Finally, you’ll want to grab your National Parks Annual Pass, the America the Beautiful pass. This will get you into all the National Parks in California. At $80, for the whole family I might add, this pass will pay for itself with visits to two of these destinations.

How to get from park to park

We’re talking an epic road trip here. For this trip, I am mapping this out as if you have a car, RV, or plan to do some van camping in California .

I recommend camping, as it is a beautiful opportunity to connect with the natural beauty that is the National Parks. You could even rent something such as an Escape Campervan so you’re not pitching a tent or setting up an RV every night.

I realize camping is not for everyone, so I also have lodging recommendations in each location as well. These range from cabins in campgrounds, to home rentals , and park accommodations where possible.

Ready to hit the open road? Let’s go!

Download my Roadtrippers map for every California National Park here .

🤩 Save $5 off Roadtrippers Plus Membership with my code BTR5QTP

Day 1 – San Francisco

• Start: Home
• End: Sonoma Valley
• Miles: 80 miles

If you’re flying in, you’re likely not landing until the afternoon. By the time you get off the plane, get your rental vehicle, and load up on snacks or groceries, it doesn’t leave you with a lot of time to get to the Redwoods.

If you do get in early, head straight to Day 2.

Why not cross the Golden Gate Bridge and spend some time in Sonoma County instead? Visit wine country and grab a bottle or three for the road . Don’t drink and drive of course. This is for your evenings around a campfire.

Must See: Vineyards, everywhere. It’s lovely driving through this farmland and seeing every vineyard, even small homestead ones.

Where to Stay: Vintner’s Inn is everything you’d expect an inn to be in the middle of wine country. Located on a vineyard trail, guests receive a free bottle of wine upon arrival.

For camping in the area, we stayed at Bodega Dunes. There are a few different options here, with a boardwalk to the beach.

Alternate Stay: Stay in Point Reyes National Seashore at Samuel P Taylor State Park. Cabins and camping is available and it’s not too far to visit the seashore.

Where to eat: These amazing restaurants in Healdsburg are a hidden gem and are just a few miles from Santa Rosa.

Day 2 – Redwoods

• Start: Santa Rosa
• Miles: 259 miles

National Park: Redwood National Park and State Parks

On your way to the Redwood National Park, take a slight detour and drive through the Avenue of Giants. You won’t regret this scenic drive with plenty of stops to wander the giant Redwood trees. It’s about 40 miles long. Redwood trees are the tallest trees, while later in the trip you’ll view Sequoias, the biggest by volume.

The Redwoods National Park requires no entrance fee, however for some of the activities you do need a reservation. This ensures the area isn’t overcrowded. Highlights include visiting Elk Meadow and strolling the beach just inside the park.

Must See: Hiking through Fern Valley was one of my favorite things we did during our trip to Redwoods. During peak season it does require a reservation permit to visit. Also, keep in mind the drive is somewhat steep and narrow to climb. Four-hour permits are available at 8:00 am and 1:00 pm. From talking to the rangers, essentially you are allowed in at any time during your reserved time slot, so you could do this on the same day as you arrive. Alternatively, you could go first thing on day 3 and then use the remainder of the day to drive to Lassen.

Where to Stay: Sue Meg State Park was stunning and just outside the Redwoods area. The park is filled with tall pines and paths lead out to a rocky beach overlook area. Cabins are available if you’re not camping.

Day 3 – Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Start: Orick
• End: Manzanita Lake
• Miles: 223 miles

National Park: Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic is a hidden gem on your national park road trip. Because it’s tucked away in Northern California, it often gets overlooked. The good news is it makes it a great place to get away and have some hikes to yourself, even in summer. A lot of this park does close for winter, and even one of the trails we wanted to do wasn’t open yet in June. Snow stays on the ground and we even hiked while it was snowing.

Lassen Peak is not the tallest mountain in California or even the US. But it does clock in at over 10,000 feet and makes for an impressive visit. It is an active volcano, but don’t expect molten lava pouring from the mountain. the US Geological Society believes the volcano is in a period of subsidence, or a less active period.

Must See: While the Bumpass Hell trail is most mentioned, for its hydrothermal and sulfur mud pool activity, it may remain closed until mid to late June. We enjoyed Kings Creek Falls Trail . This trail took us through a meadow, still dotted with snow, to a mountain climb. The trail circles around to a rocky and beautiful waterfall.

Note that this area was devastated by the Dixie fires in 2021. You can still see where many burnt trees are standing. Don’t let this deter your visit however as it’s a striking contrast from one side of the trail to the other.

Where to Stay: Manzanita Lake Campground, both camping, and cabins available. Manzanita also has showers, laundry, and a decent general store for stocking up.

Day 4 – Lake Tahoe

• Start: Manzanita Lake
• End: Lake Tahoe
• Miles: 216 miles

While technically this is not a national park, I included Lake Tahoe to break up the drive. Your California National Parks Road Trip has long drives these first few days. You could skip over Lake Tahoe and head straight to Yosemite. That would be about a 7-hour drive through the Sierra Nevada mountains. While Lake Tahoe isn’t a direct path between the two parks, it does break it up nicely and you still get extraordinary hikes and views.

Must See: Emerald Bay is part of Lake Tahoe and seemingly where a lot of the action happens. We hiked into the main area, but you can drive as well. During the summer it is busy with lots of activity. Our hike began at our campground, making it that much more convenient. We kayaked near Fannette island, toured the Vikingsholm grounds, and enjoyed the clear emerald water views.

Where to Stay: Emerald Bay State Park and Eagle Point campground was an absolutely perfect campground. Our site was steps from the hiking trail, allowing us to park the van and explore immediately. They do close in early September and fill up in the summer. be sure to book early.

For non-campers, I would look at any of the stunning home rentals here . Many cabins have extraordinary lake views.

Day 5 – Yosemite

• Start: Lake Tahoe
• End: Yosemite Valley
• Miles: 165 miles or 195 miles

National Park: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has 4 entrances. I would recommend the Big Oak Flat Entrance on the northwest side. if you map to the valley, however, it may take you through the Tioga pass entrance on the east side. Either works, but we’re all about maximizing our time in the parks and not on the road.

Since we’re only allowing 2 days on this itinerary, I’m focusing on the highlight of Yosemite National Park, in the Yosemite Valley.

Must See: If you feel up for squeezing in a hike after arriving at the park, head to the Lower Yosemite Falls. This flat easy 1-mile hike will give you a view of the lower falls and plenty of photo ops. You could also head over to the Mist Trail at Vernal Fall.

Take either today or the later part of tomorrow and visit the history of the Yosemite park in the museums located in the valley. See the valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, Ansel Adams Gallery, and the Indian Village of the Ahwahnee, all steps from each other.

Where to Stay: You can’t go wrong with any of the accommodations within the valley. Choose from Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Ahwahnee, or Curry Village for luxury accommodations or cabins. Housekeeping Camp has tent cabins for a glamping experience. The valley also has tent and RV camping at Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, and Camp 4. Note Camp 4 used to be first come first serve, but during peak season is available by a daily lottery, one day in advance . If you’re willing to chance it, this is a perfect base camp for your hike to upper Yosemite Falls .

Day 6 – Yosemite

• Start: Yosemite Valley
• Miles: 0 miles

You need at least 2 days in this popular park, especially if you want to get a good hike or two in. Today, tackle all or half of Upper Yosemite Falls . It is a strenuous hike in the 2nd half with steep rocky inclines. If you do just the first half, you still get rewarded with stunning views of the falls. The full hike will take you to the top of the mountain with more once-in-a-lifetime views of El Capitan, but it’s not for everyone.

You could also check out these guided hikes in Yosemite .

If you didn’t get to Mist Falls yesterday, do that one today. Or hike an easier terrain at Mirror Lake.

Not up for a hike today? Take in views of Half Dome, Bridal Veil Falls, and Yosemite Falls, by riding the free bus transportation throughout the valley floor, stopping at various scenic points.

Where to Stay: Spend another night here and relax!

A note about the timing in this trip. Depending on the time of year, you may want to exclude Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks due to the extreme heat in the summer months. if you’re traveling in the later winter months, you may find sections of the northern parks closed. Do some research on the National Park Service website to find what is open and when. You could also split this trip into separate times of the year and start in Southern California for the following parks.

Day 7 – Yosemite

• End: Furnace Creek
• Miles: 303 miles

National Park: Yosemite National Park and Death Valley National park

While today you will end up in Death Valley, depending on the time of year and the heat, you may not want to arrive until the evening when the heat has abated. Plan to drive and explore more of Yosemite National Park and arrive late.

Today you’ll head out of the park towards the Tioga Pass entrance. This scenic drive passes Tuolumne Meadows , Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted point. Tuolumne Meadows is a popular place to spot wildlife and wildflowers. Tenaya lake as well as Cathedral Lakes, and Gaylor Lakes also make for scenic reflective views as well as easy to strenuous hikes.

Finally, you’ll head towards Death Valley, which is about a 4-hour drive from the Tioga pass Entrance Station.

Must See: Nighttime in Death Valley offers some of the best stargazing in America . Designated as a Gold Tier Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky association means you won’t miss a thing by arriving here at night. Death Valley has a Dark Sky Festival in the later winter or spring months. There are night ranger programs and even full moon night hiking at Mesquite flat Sand Dunes or Badwater Basin. Check out the park’s night explorations here .

Where to Stay: the oasis at Death Valley is a privately owned historic luxury property with pool views overlooking the desert. however, for more unobstructed night sky viewers, I’d recommend Furnace Creek Campground which is open year-round. Furnace Creek, as opposed to the other first-come-first-served campgrounds, accepts reservations.

Day 8 – Death Valley

• Start: Furnace Creek
• End: Twenty-Nine Palms
• Miles: 236 miles

National Park: Death Valley National Park & Joshua Tree National Park

Did you know that Death Valley is below sea level, making it the lowest point to visit in the national parks? Today explore what you can of Death Valley before driving your California National Parks road trip to Joshua Tree. By making your way south from Furnace Creek, you’ll hit the highs and lows of Death Valley.

Must see : Just south of Furnace Creek is Zabriskie Point, with an overlook of the badlands and unique erosion and winds that shape the desert. From there, keep traveling south to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. Badwater Basin is 282 feet below sea level. Badwater’s salt flats provide another highlight of what the variety in Death Valley offers.

Where to Stay : tonight stay in Twenty Nine Palms or Joshua Tree. Joshua Tree National park only has campgrounds. black Rock or Cottonwood Campgrounds are the most developed. Outside of the park check out the Desert Lily Lodge for more dark sky views.

If you can and have the time, this would be a great time to check out all the cool things to do in San Diego .

Day 9 – Joshua Tree

• Start: Joshua Tree
• End: Ventura
• Miles: 224 miles

National Park: Joshua Tree National Park

Wake up and explore Joshua Tree National Park from the north or west entrance stations. Either will take you along Park Boulevard for the more popular sections of the park. If you can enter through Oasis Visitor’s Center and exit through to the Joshua Tree Visitor’s center, you’ll explore all of Park Boulevard.

Must See: Hidden Valley has more than 400 places to climb and clamor over the various rock formations. With 8,000 climbing routes, it’s a rock climbers’ paradise. Even if you’re a beginner, you can join a beginner rock climbing course . And if you don’t want to climb, you can still pretend you are a rock climber by walking the Barker Dam Nature Trail.

After exploring Joshua Tree, head west towards the Channel Islands.

Where to Stay: Emma Wood State Beach is near the ferry that will take you to the Channel Islands National Park.

Day 10 – Channel Islands

• Start: Ventura
• End: Sequoia
• Miles: 221 miles

National Park: Channel Islands National Park

Wake up in Ventura and explore the Channel Islands National Park. You cannot drive to the Channel Islands and there are no cars on the islands. If you want to camp, you can pack in for primitive camping on the island. Otherwise, boats leave at 4 pm allowing you enough time to drive to Sequoia next.

There are five Channel Islands in total. The ferries take you to Anacapa or Santa Cruz Islands year-round, and to Santa Rosa during the summer months. A popular and easy hike is the one to Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island . This is where you’ll see the Anacapa Lighthouse and spectacular views and photo ops from the higher elevation.

Must See: The sea caves on Santa Cruz Island are a perfect place to explore by kayak. For kayak rentals and tours, check out the Channel Islands Kayak Center . Rates are very reasonable for a full day at $35 for a single kayak.

Where to Stay: You’re on your way to Sequoia once you depart the boat. Stay in one of the many campgrounds between Sequoia and Kings Canyon, or check out the Sequoia National Forest Campgrounds. The Silver City Mountain Resort is another perfect cabin getaway too.

Day 11 – Sequoia & Kings Canyon

• Start: Sequoia
• End: Kings Canyon
• Miles: 60 miles

National Park: Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park

Because they border each other, Sequoia and Kings Canyon are often lumped together as one park, but still operate separately. Today start out at the south end of the park and make your way to Moro rock for an overlook of the park. It is a strenuous hike, but only a 1/2 mile round trip and mostly stairs with guard rails. There are 380 steps up (and down).

Must see: The top sight in Sequoia National Park is the giant sequoia trees, and you won’t go wrong doing the largest tree, General Sherman tree and surrounding trails. You’ll find other tall trees along the Congress Trail. If you have time, stop into the Forest Museum to learn more about what makes these the largest by volume trees and the sturdiest.

From here, make your way north along the Generals’ Highway, through the Sequoia National Forest, and on to Kings Canyon National Park.

In Kings Canyon, do the short trail that leads to the General Grant tree . Take Kings Canyon Scenic byway and stop at Canyon View for amazing views of Kings Canyon.

Where to Stay: Grants Grove has campsites and cabins available.

If you want to do just Sequoia and Yosemite on a trip, follow the route here .

You can grab another national monument by visiting the Manzanar National Historic site . It’s west of Sequoia and northeast of Death Valley.

Day 12 – Pinnacles

• Start: Kings Canyon
• End: Pinnacles
• Miles: 190 miles

National Park: Pinnacles National Park

Get an early start and you can get to Pinnacles National Park by noon. Alternatively, you could leave the night before and wake up in Pinnacles. Pinnacles National Park is the home of the California Condor, an endangered species. If you are lucky, you’ll see them soaring above in on the high peaks trail. A strenuous, 7.2-mile trail if you complete the whole thing, you may want to start this in the morning when you’re fresh.

Pinnacles is also noted for its cathedral-like rocky spires. Many of the hikes here are moderate to strenuous. If you’re not a hiker, however, you can still drive from the east entrance to overlooks at Peaks View and the trailheads at Old Pinnacles and Bear Gulch to view the ancient and intricate geological formations.

Must See: Bear Gulch Cave has a self-guided path that weaves between the lodged boulders. These boulders create gulches, caves, and caverns. Be sure to bring some light beyond your cellphone flashlight. The trails from the Bear Gulch Day Use area is about a 2.2-mile moderate hike.

Where to Stay: Tonight stay in the Pinnacles campground if you’re van camping on your California National Parks road trip. Keep in mind this campground fills up fast so make your reservations early. Pinnacles has an east and a west entrance and they do not connect by road. If your activities are on the east side, and you want to avoid driving all the way around the park, you may want stay the night in Hollister, about 34 miles north. The good news is that puts you closer to your final destination.

Day 13 – San Francisco

• Start: Pinnacles
• End: San Francisco
• Miles: 134 miles

If you’re doing some of the more strenuous hikes and arrived mid-day yesterday, you’ll want an extra day in Pinnacles. If not, make your way to San Francisco for the final leg of your journey.

Many flights east leave late in the day in San Francisco so that you can have a red-eye home. If like us, you take a later flight, you’ll have time to explore the city.

Note, however, that if you’re renting a campervan for your California National Park road trip, you may need to return it early in the day. This can also play a factor in your overall driving and touring plans.

We returned our van early in the day and then took an Uber to the city to explore. We rented baggage space at a local hotel using the Bounce App . After exploring, we took an Uber to the airport for our 9 pm flight.

Must See: There are a lot of things to see and do in San Francisco if you want an extra day, to spend, go for it. These are just a few of our favorites.

• Ghiradelli sign
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• San Francisco Trolley
• The Painted Ladies
• Lombard Street

If you do decide to take a Day 14, an extra day on this trip, cruise up the California coast on the Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Bridge, and Big Sur for a scenic route.

2 Week California National Parks Road Trip

There you have it. 2 weeks to see every California National Park on a road trip. It’s a lot and only covers the highlights of each park. But if you’re on a mission with limited time, this will do it!

On our California adventure, we did 11 days covering more days in the parks. Our trip looked like this:

• Day 1 – Bodega Dunes Campground
• Day 2 – Redwoods – Sue meg Campground
• Day 3 – Lassen – Manzanita Lakes Campground
• Day 4 – Overnight in Sierraville
• Day 5 – Lake Tahoe – Emerald Bay Campground
• Day 6 – Drive to Yosemite – Groveland, CA
• Day 7-8 – Yosemite
• Day 9-10 Sequoia & Kings Canyon
• Day 11 – Santa Cruz and depart San Francisco

We enjoyed a lot of scenery and hikes on this trip, as well as many bucket list destinations.

Alternate Itineraries

Here are a few other California National Parks Road Trip itineraries you could do in fewer days. or take these itineraries and spend extra time in places such as Yosemite, Sequoia, or the Channel Islands.

Northern California National Parks Round Trip Route:

• San Francisco
• Kings Canyon & Sequoia

Lost Angeles to San Francisco Route:

• Los Angeles
• Joshua Tree

Southern California National Parks Round Trip Route:

• Death Valley
• Channel Islands

When to go on a California National Parks Road Trip

With a trip this size, it’s hard to say when the right time to go to California would be. Too early in the spring, and some sites may still be closed due to snow. Some rentals will tell you not to visit Death Valley in the summer. And fall may see some of the campgrounds closed, although crowds will be fewer.

Personally, I think if you’re going to visit all the California National Parks on your road tri p, spring or fall would still be the best time to do it. You may sacrifice some trail and campground closures, but you’ll still see a majority of the highlights with fewer overall crowds.

What California National Parks Allow Dogs

Service animals are always allowed. Dogs are usually allowed in the campgrounds. However they will not be allowed on most of the hiking trails.

How much does it cost to visit California’s national parks?

The cost of visiting California’s national parks varies depending on the park and the activities you want to do. Entrance fees range from $10 to $35 per vehicle, and camping fees range from $15 to $35 per night. Some activities, such as guided tours or ranger-led programs, may also have additional fees.

Which national parks are worth visiting on a California road trip?

Some of the most popular national parks in California include Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Redwood, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Death Valley. Each park has its unique features and landscapes, so it’s worth researching each one to determine which ones are the best fit for your family.

When is the best time to visit California’s national parks?

The best time to visit California’s national parks depends on the park you’re planning to visit. Generally, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best seasons to visit as temperatures are mild, crowds are smaller, and there are fewer bugs.

How long does a California national parks road trip typically take?

The length of a California national parks road trip varies depending on the number of parks you want to visit and how much time you have. A typical itinerary can take between one and three weeks.

What should we pack for a California national parks road trip?

It’s important to pack for all weather conditions and activities, including comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hats, layers, and waterproof gear. It’s also a good idea to bring a first aid kit , insect repellent, and plenty of water and snacks.

Are there guided tours available in the national parks?

Yes, many of the national parks offer guided tours led by park rangers or private tour companies. These tours can be a great way to learn more about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.

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• Itineraries

California National Parks Road Trip

California national parks tour.

California is known for its wildly diverse terrain, ranging from jaw-dropping coastlines to sweeping desert landscapes. The entire state serves as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, containing nine of the country’s national parks- more than any other state in the US. With so many natural wonders, deciding which park to visit is often the most challenging part of planning a California National Parks road trip .

Rather than limiting your trip to just one national park, why not see all of them?  Slide down sand dunes in the desert, go rock climbing in Yosemite , gaze up at the world’s largest trees, and hike up an active volcano! Beginning from the Escape Camper Vans’ Los Angeles location , this 10-day California National Parks road trip takes you on the ultimate west coast adventure!

Travel Time for a California National Parks Road Trip from Los Angeles

Embarking on a journey through all nine of California’s national parks is no small feat. It begins and ends at the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles , near National Parks. This West Coast adventure spans approximately 2,105 miles and would take about 37 hours and 40 minutes of continuous driving. With so many National Parks near Los Angeles, we recommend at least ten days to complete this road trip.

While Joshua Tree is the first national park on this itinerary, you could reverse the route, beginning with the Channel Islands National Park instead. 

TOTAL MILES: 2,105 miles

TOTAL TRAVEL TIME: 10 days, driving 37 hours and 40 minutes

Best Time of Year for a California National Parks Road Trip

Because California’s national parks are scattered throughout the state, there are some National Parks near Los Angeles but many are not. This can make finding an ideal month that’s optimal for all of the parks tricky.  To help you decide when to venture out on your California National Parks road trip, we’ve listed the benefits and disadvantages of each season.

In Joshua Tree and Death Valley , March through May, bring comfortable temperatures perfect for long days of exploring. Spring is when wildflowers are in full bloom, especially in Pinnacles National Park and the Channel Islands. The Redwoods are also extraordinarily lush during the spring, and the crowds aren’t overwhelming.

In Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and Lassen Volcanic National Park , early spring can still be cold and very snowy. This makes this a less ideal time to visit unless you’re seeking out winter activities. However, the snow melts by May, and it becomes one of the most pleasant periods to visit all the parks.

Despite increased crowds, warm temperatures make summer one of the best seasons to visit Sequoia , Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and the Redwoods. You’ll just need to reserve your campsites well in advance, as this is the most popular time of year to visit. Summer is also the best season for spotting marine wildlife throughout the Channel Islands.

However, not all of California’s parks thrive during the summer . In Joshua Tree and Death Valley, scorching desert temperatures are uncomfortable and often dangerous. Furthermore, Death Valley is already the hottest place on earth, so you can only imagine what it’s like in the middle of July. Additionally, t he summer is too hot to enjoy Pinnacles National Park, plus the caves are often inaccessible due to bat activity.

For most of the destinations on this route, September and October bring fewer crowds, great weather for exploring, and vibrant fall colors. In Death Valley, September is still quite hot; by October, the temperatures become milder and are perfect for venturing into the desert. 

The early fall is also the warmest time to visit the Channel Islands, although, by October, the Santa Ana winds usually come in and can cause rough seas.

Cooler temperatures make the winter a perfect time to explore Joshua Tree , Death Valley and Pinnacles National Park. Winter is the quiet season for most other parks, with lots of snow and cold temperatures. 

Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite are all magical to see under blankets of snow.  Just remember that some trails and roads may become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

The Redwoods are also tranquil in the winter, and while it likely won’t snow during your visit, you can expect quite a bit of rain. Mid-December is the best time to witness the whale migration in Channel Island, but it can be very rainy. Heavy storms may result in ferry cancellations or delays.

All things considered, late spring and early fall are the best seasons to explore all nine of California’s national parks. 

Preparation for a California National Parks Road Trip

Exploring all of California’s national parks in one trip is a massive undertaking and requires planning and preparation. You’ll cross through many varied ecosystems over ten days, so packing all the necessary gear and supplies for each park is critical. 

Campgrounds

Most of California’s national parks offer multiple campgrounds to choose from. Even so, it’s a good idea to book your sites as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re traveling during the busy season. If you’re not able to reserve your sites ahead of time, consider trying dispersed or free camping options near each park.

Food and Water

This route involves very long stretches of time on the road, often in quite remote areas with few to no facilities. The same goes for many of the parks you’ll be exploring. With this in mind, stock up on groceries by the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles or near National Parks so you can plan meals that can easily be made at your campsite. It’s also a good idea to include a kitchen kit and picnic table to ensure you have everything you need.

Gear and Supplies

Many of the parks on this itinerary are known for their bears and other wildlife. Make sure you are always taking the proper precautions when it comes to food storage.

Protection from the sweltering desert sun is critical. We recommend you add a door canopy to your camper van rental for extra sun protection. Additionally, flashlights will also be necessary for exploring the lava tubes of Lassen Volcanic National Park and the caves in Pinnacles National Park.

If you’re planning to embark on your California National Parks road trip during the winter, you’ll definitely need snow chains and an extra bedding kit. Finally, get an America the Beautiful pass. It will give you unlimited access to every National Park for a full year. Otherwise, you’ll end up spending tons of money on park entrance fees.

If you’re using your Smartphone as your GPS, keep in mind that you’ll be driving through many areas with minimal cell reception. As long as you download offline maps, this shouldn’t be a problem. Just make sure you pack portable chargers, so that you’re not stuck when your camper van is off. 

As an added precaution, grab a free paper map at the entrance of each park. These will help a lot with navigating the more secluded roads, trails, and campgrounds that you’ll encounter.

Which Camper Van is Best for a California National Parks Road Trip?

Escape Camper Vans offers a suite of five different camper van models to choose from, all of which are available from our Los Angeles location . This is a great place to start your journey, as Los Angeles is near National Parks. The ideal camper van for your trip will depend on your group size, the time of year you’re traveling, and your personal preferences.

The Del Mar , Mavericks , and Mesa are our three largest models, all of which can sleep up to five people with a rooftop sleeper and come equipped with comfortable queen-sized beds. Our Jeep Camper and Santa Cruz are more compact and sleep up to two people. All models feature fully functional kitchenettes, although the Jeep contains a powered cooler rather than a refrigerator. Take some time to compare each vehicle to determine which is right for you.

California National Parks Road Trip Itinerary 

Day 1- los angeles to joshua tree national park.

After an early morning spent packing up your camper van and stocking up on groceries, it’s time to hit the road. Your national parks tour begins with Joshua Tree , located 144 miles from the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles . 

As soon as you enter southern California’s mesmerizing oasis, you’ll be met by jaw-dropping rock formations, enchanting desert landscapes, and, of course, the namesake trees that Joshua Tree is so famous for. 

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Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park

See Skull Rock- Years of eroding granite have led to one of Joshua Tree’s most notable landmarks. After stopping for a photo op with this famous skull-shaped rock, check out the easy 1.7-mile nature trail nearby.

Barker Dam Trail- This stunning, 1.1-mile loop trail is a great way to get acquainted with the park’s ethereal landscape. Walk past enormous boulders and geological formations, the Baker Dam, and vast fields of Joshua trees!

Hall of Horrors Trail- On this spectacular trail, hike past large boulders and rock scrambles, followed by two impressive slot canyons. In addition to amazing views and high chances of spotting wildlife, you’re also likely to see several rock climbers during your trek. 

Places to Eat near Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree Saloon – 61835 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA 92252: This legendary saloon and grill boasts an Old West theme while offering delicious meals and a lively atmosphere. Admire scenic desert views from their outdoor patio, and on the weekends enjoy live music performances and open mic nights!

Crossroads Cafe – 61715 29 Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree, CA: This laid-back eatery offers an extensive menu, including a wide variety of vegan options. Their breakfasts are especially popular and available every day until 1:30 pm.

Campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park contains eight camper van-friendly campgrounds , three of which are first come, first served. Most of the sites do not provide potable water, so make sure you’re stocked up before settling in for the night!

Jumbo Rocks Campground – Twentynine Palms, CA 92277: This year-round site within the park is incredibly scenic and conveniently located near many of Joshua Tree’s top attractions. Reservations are required and can be made up to six months in advance.

Hidden Valley Campground – 74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277: This is the only first come, first served campsite in the park that is open year-round, making it a popular option in the summer. Pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings are available, though facilities are otherwise minimal.

Day 2- Death Valley National Park

Spend your morning driving through the enchanting Mojave National Preserve as you make your way to Death Valley National Park . The drive takes approximately four hours and facilities along this route are very limited, so make sure you have enough water and food before leaving Joshua Tree. 

Not only is Death Valley the largest national park in California, but it’s also the lowest, driest, and hottest place in all of North America. This spellbinding park offers a multitude of different landscapes and natural wonders to discover, including otherworldly geological formations, captivating salt flats, and towering sand dunes.

Things to do in Death Valley National Park

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Flanked by looming mountains in the distance, visiting this vast field of sand dunes is one of the most fun things to do in Death Valley. Hike to the summit of the dunes, which reach about 100 feet, or rent a sandboard!

Artists Palette – Situated along the Artists Drive Scenic Loop , the wildly vivid colors throughout these jagged rock formations are truly astounding. The vibrant hues of greens, purples, and reds are created by the oxidation of metals and other elements. 

Zabriskie Point- This jaw-dropping viewpoint offers travelers one of the most striking sights in Death Valley. This viewpoint is especially breathtaking during sunrise or sunset. It is one of the best areas to take in the park’s hypnotizing landscape. 

Badwater Basin – The 1-mile hike to this iconic salt flat will bring you 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America!

Places to Eat near Death Valley National Park

Badwater Saloon – 51880 CA-190, Death Valley, CA 92328: Open for lunch and dinner, this Wild Wild West-style bar is the perfect spot to refresh. Afterward, stick around for a game of pool or enjoy one a signature cocktails. 

Toll Road Restaurant – 51880 CA-190, Death Valley, CA 92328: Located in the same complex as the Badwater Saloon, this lively eatery serves breakfast lunch, and dinner. If you plan to spend the day on the trails, you can also pick up a boxed lunch in the morning. 

Camping in Death Valley National Park

Furnace Creek Campground – Death Valley, CA 92328: This year-round site requires advanced reservations from October to April. The rest of the year is first come, first served. During the high season, reservations must be made at least two days before your visit and can be reserved up to six months in advance. Facilities include flush toilets, a dump station, and drinking water.

Sunset Campground – Death Valley, CA 92328: This spacious campground is first come, first served and is usually a good bet for finding sites. The season typically operates from mid-October until April, and facilities include flush toilets, potable water, and a year-round camp store.

Day 3- Sequoia National Park

Enjoy an early breakfast before trading in Death Valley’s desert landscapes for the towering trees of Sequoia National Park . The drive will take about five hours, but the long ride will be well worth the effort.

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is famous for its astonishingly tall trees- including the biggest living tree on the planet! The park also boasts jaw-dropping mountains, impressive canyons, and ample wildlife spotting opportunities.

Things to Do in Sequoia National Park

General Sherman Tree – Located within the Giant Forest, General Sherman is the park’s number one attraction. At 52,508 cubic feet, this is the world’s largest tree and a must-see when visiting! There are two different trails that lead to the legendary tree, which towers at a height of 274.9 feet.

Moro Rock- For a breathtaking view of the park’s vastness, head to the top of this impressive granite dome, standing at 6,725 feet. Your 350 stair climb will reward you with with outstanding panoramic views. 

Congress Trail – Beginning at General Sherman, this 2.7-mile trail along a well-paved path guides visitors past a remarkable amount of looming sequoia trees. 

Places to Eat Near Sequoia National Park

Sequoia Coffee Co. -41669 Sierra Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271: Here is where you find some of the best coffee in the area. They also serve a wide selection of delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. Located just outside of the park, this is a perfect option for fueling up before a day in the mountains.

The Peaks Restaurant – 64740 Wuksachi Way, Sequoia National Park, CA 93262: Situated inside the park at the Wuksachi Lodge, this is one of Sequoia’s most popular dining options. In addition to a variety of meals made from sustainable ingredients, the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide unmatched views of the park while you dine.

Campgrounds Near Sequoia National Park

Lodgepole Campground – 47050 Generals Hwy, Three Rivers, CA 93271: Located at an elevation of 6,700 feet, this spacious campground usually operates from April through November, and reservations are required. While amenities are limited, this site is within walking distance of Lodgepole Village, which offers laundry facilities, showers, a market, and access to the Sequoia Shuttle during the summer months.

Potwisha Campground- Sequoia National Park, CA, 93262: Fall asleep under a field of oak trees at this year-round site in the foothills. Reservations can be made up to four months before your trip, and facilities include flush toilets, food storage lockers, and potable water. Since it rarely snows in the foothills, this is a great option if you’re traveling during the winter.

Day 4- Kings Canyon National Park

Pack up your camper van once more as you prepare to make the quick drive over to Kings Canyon National Park , which shares a border with Sequoia National Park. While Kings Canyon is still brimming with enormous sequoia trees, it also features the country’s deepest canyon, stunning waterfalls, and awe-inspiring vistas. 

To reach Kings Canyon from Sequoia, drive along the breathtaking Kings Canyon Scenic Byway . This stunning route is 50 miles long and leads you straight through the majestic Land of Giants, featuring several trailheads and overlooks along the way.

Things to do in Kings Canyon National Park

Explore Grant Grove – The trails throughout Grant Grove allow you to walk among the world’s biggest population of sequoia trees. Here, the star of the show is General Grant , the second largest tree on the planet after General Sherman. This area is also home to stunning canyons, trails, and viewpoints. 

Mist Falls Hike – This 8-mile trail leads to Kings Canyon’s largest waterfall. Not only are the cascading falls stunning to witness, but the hike itself meanders through the forest and is gorgeous.

Zumwalt Meadow Trail – From this picturesque meadow, enjoy a tranquil 1.5-mile hike along the Kings River while gazing up at imposing granite walls. This is also a prime location for spotting bears and other wildlife. 

Places to Eat near Kings Canyon National Park

Grant Grove Restaurant – 83923 CA-180, Hume, CA 93628: Enjoy your hearty meal while being surrounded by enormous sequoia trees at this popular eatery inside Kings Canyon. When the weather permits, you can also dine on their expansive outdoor patio.

Baker Mountain house – 48711 CA-245, Badger, CA 93603: Built in 1928, this charmingly rustic restaurant offers delicious meals along with spectacular views of the mountains from their inviting deck.

Campgrounds near Kings Canyon National Park

Sunset Campground- Generals Hwy, Hume, CA 93628: Located inside the park, this reservation-only campsite typically operates from late May until early September. Facilities include food storage lockers, drinking water, and flush toilets. Grant Grove Village, which contains additional amenities, is also nearby. 

Azalea Campground – Grant Grove, CA 93633: This year-round site inside Kings Canyon features flush toilets, a dump station, potable water, and food storage lockers. Aside from the winter months, all sites must be booked in advance, and reservations can be made up to four months ahead.

Day 5- Yosemite National Park

A quick, two-hour scenic drive from Kings Canyon will lead you to California’s most visited national park, Yosemite . A haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers, Yosemite National Park is celebrated for its magnificent waterfalls, imposing granite cliffs, and an impressive number of giant sequoia trees. 

After setting up camp, you can choose to hike to one of the park’s cascading waterfalls , scale a massive boulder, or relax beside a gorgeous alpine lake. 

Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Mist Trail – This 7-mile, round-trip hike is one of the most frequented trails in Yosemite. Trek past a number of magnificent viewpoints, including two spectacular waterfalls, before ending with a jaw-dropping view of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and the back of Half Dome.

Tuolumne Meadows – At 8,600 feet, this high-elevation meadow is enveloped by soaring granite peaks and features the stunning Tuolumne River. There are also several well-paved trails in the area to take in the idyllic scenery.

El Capitan – Yosemite Valley’s enormous, vertical rock formation is one of the park’s most iconic sites and easily visible from El Capitan Meadow. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, join the hundreds of climbers from around the world who come to Yosemite to scale this famous cliff each year.

Places to Eat near Yosemite National Park

Jackalope’s Bar and Grill – 1122 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at this cozy eatery inside the park, which features a lovely patio and fire pit for colder days. A variety of filling dishes are made from organic and locally sourced ingredients, and the menu offers several vegan and gluten-free options.

1850 Restaurant and Brewing Company – 5114 Yosemite All-Year Hwy, Mariposa, CA 95338: Lunch, dinner, and locally brewed beers are all available at this popular establishment. Their dog-friendly patio is perfect for enjoying a cold drink and a replenishing meal after a long day of exploring.

North Fork BBQ – 40282 CA-41 suite 11, Oakhurst, CA 93644: Run by two brothers, this laid-back eatery serves the best barbecue in the area. The portions are abundant, and all meals are made fresh from scratch daily.

Camping in Yosemite National Park

There are ten campsites inside Yosemite , three of which are first come, first served. During the high season, it’s strongly recommended to make your reservations in advance, as the park fills up incredibly quickly.

Upper Pines Campground – Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389: Conveniently located near many of Yosemite’s main attractions, this is the park’s biggest and most popular campground. This year-round site requires reservations and features flush toilets, dump stations, potable water, and food storage lockers.

Wawona Campground – Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389: This year-round site requires reservations from April through October but is first come, first served the rest of the year. In addition to a visitor center and market, this campground offers flush toilets, a dump station, and food storage lockers.

Day 6- Lassen Volcanic National Park

Today, it’s time to trade in towering sequoia trees for mud pools, fumaroles, and captivating volcanos. The drive from Yosemite to Lassen Volcanic National Park is a little over five hours, so you’ll want to get a pretty early head start.

Once you arrive, get acquainted with this volcanic wonderland by driving along the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway . This 30-mile stretch of road takes you through some of the park’s most impressive overlooks, geothermal sites, and popular trailheads. 

Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Bumpass Hell – This 3-mile hike leads travelers to the biggest hydrothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Trek past fumaroles, mud pots, and boiling springs as you explore this otherworldly park section.

Hike up Lassen Peak – This 5-mile hike leads you up one of the biggest plug dome volcanoes on the planet and rewards adventurers with impeccable 360 degree views of the park’s incredible landscape. Although Lassen Peak last erupted about 100 years ago, it is still an active volcano, making the trek up feel much more adventurous!

Subway Cave Lava Tubes – This short hike takes you through one of the world’s biggest and easy to reach lava tubes. Make sure you bring your flashlight, as it’s completely pitch black inside.

Places to Eat near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Cravings – 278 Main St, Chester, CA 96020: Classic breakfast and lunch options are made from scratch at this delightful mom-and-pop shop. They’re able to accommodate any dietary restrictions and offer to-go meals if you’re planning to eat in the park.

Koninkrijk Koffiehuis – 240 Main St, Chester, CA 96020: This European-style cafe offers delicious coffee and freshly baked European pastries, including bear claws and strudel. European-inspired sandwiches, calzones, and soups are also available if you’re craving something savory.

Campgrounds near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Butte Lake Campground – Old Station, CA 96071: Wake up to stunning views of Butte Lake from this secluded campground, which operates from June through mid-October. Advanced reservations must be made until the beginning of September, at which point a portion of the campsite becomes first come, first served. The minimal facilities at this campground include seasonal vault toilets and food storage lockers.

Manzanita Lake Campground – Lassen Volcanic National Park, Mineral, CA 96063: Located just beside the beautiful Manzanita Lake, this is the largest campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park and amenities include hot showers, potable water, and a laundry facility. This site typically runs from May until October, depending on snowfall, and reservations are required.

Day 7- Redwood National and State Parks

Hop back in your van and head towards the coast as you make the four hour drive to the Redwood National and State Parks . Spread across one national park and three neighboring state parks, the Redwoods are renowned for housing the tallest trees on the planet. With 40-miles of old-growth redwoods along California’s coastline, you’ll find an endless supply of enchanting hikes, dense forests, and stunning landscapes.

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Things to do in Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon – Reached by a 1.1-mile loop trail, this mystifying canyon is entirely draped in verdant ferns. Walk along the gentle creek that runs through the looming canyon, and keep an eye out for the wild elk that tend to roam in the area.

Stout Grove – Situated in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park , this stunning grove of old-growth redwoods is a must-visit. Less than a mile long, this short trail allows you to walk among some of the world’s tallest trees. There are also several fallen trees in the grove, which give a whole new perspective to how massive the redwoods truly are.

Avenue of the Giants – Technically located south of the park, this 31-mile road provides a spectacular drive past seemingly endless, gigantic redwoods. There are also numerous trailheads that you can access from this scenic drive, all of which allow you to be immersed in a field of breathtaking giants.

Places to Eat near Redwood National Park

Trinidad Bay Eatery – 607 Parker St, Trinidad, CA 95570: Delicious seafood and classic American dishes are served at this laid back, eco-conscious eatery. The restaurant also features an attached gift shop and gallery filled with works from local artists.

Eel River Brewing – 1777 Alamar Way, Fortuna, CA 95540: Since 1995, delicious pub fare and locally crafted beers have been served as this casual establishment. The popular brewery also hosts live performances, trivia nights, and features a large outdoor area.

Campgrounds near Redwood National Park

There are four developed campgrounds throughout the Redwood National and State Parks . All sites fill up immediately in the summer, so aim to make your reservations as early as possible.

Jedediah Smith Campground – 1461 US-199, Crescent City, CA 95531: Situated in a spectacular redwood grove, this year-round site features coin-operated showers, food storage lockers, and potable drinking water. Reservations are required, and can be hard to come by during the busy season.

Mill Creek Campground – Mill Creek Campgrounds, Mill Creek Campground, Klamath, CA 95548: Open from mid-May until October, this seasonal campsite does not require advanced reservations, although they are highly recommended in the summer. The site’s basic amenities include showers, a dump station, and food storage lockers.

Day 8- Pinnacles National Park

After a very early wake up, wave goodbye to the world’s tallest trees as you embark on an eight hour drive down to Pinnacles National Park . Formed by volcano eruptions from approximately 23 million years ago, this is the smallest and youngest of all Californa’s national parks. This extraordinary landscape provides visitors with the rare opportunity to hike through talus caves, climb up enormous rock spires, and spot the elusive California condor.

Things to do in Pinnacles National Park

High Peaks Trail – This moderately challenging trail is one of the longest in the park, and will lead you to one of the best spots for witnessing California condors. The hike involves a lot of steep inclines, but it’s worth it for the unparalleled views of the park’s striking rock formations.

Bear Gulch Cave – This fascinating cave is one of the most captivating aspects of Pinnacles National Park, and is reached by several different trails. The cave has two sections, with the upper being frequently closed, since it serves as a protected area for endangered bats. The lower half is usually also closed from mid-May to July due to the bats, so keep that in mind when timing your visit.

Balconies Cave – This impressive cave is reached by a breathtaking, 2.6-mile loop trail and traverses over jagged formations caused from past volcanic activity. Like Bear Gulch, this talus cave is sometimes closed due to bat activity or unsafe conditions, so double check the cave status before your hike.

Places to Eat near Pinnacles National Park

Cocuyos Restaurant – 185 Kidder St, Soledad, CA 93960: For authentic Mexican dishes in a cozy setting, you can’t go wrong with this extremely popular spot in Soledad. The restaurant features outdoor seating, as well as an extensive drinks menu.

Taste of the Pinnacles – 148 Main St, Soledad, CA 93960: This charming wine bar offers a delicious selection of small plates and entrees, along with craft beers and California wines sourced from local vineyards. They also host live music performances each month.

Campgrounds near Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles Campground – 2400 Hwy 146 Pinnacles Area, Paicines, CA 95043: Located towards the east side of the park, this site is open all year and spots can be reserved up to six months in advance. Showers, drinking water, a small camp store, and a seasonal swimming pool are all available at the campground.

Hollister Hills SVRA – 7800 Cienega Rd, Hollister, CA 95023: While this is primarily an ATV recreation area, they also run a large camper van-friendly campground. This year-round site is first come, first served, and features fire pits, showers, and flush toilets.

Day 9- Channel Islands National Park

For the final stop of your California National Parks tour, you’ll need to trade in your camper van for a high-speed ferry. Coined as the “Galapagos of North America,” Channel Islands National Park encompasses five jaw-dropping islands located off the coast of Ventura . 

The easiest way to embark on a day trip to one of the islands is by taking a ferry from Ventura Harbor Village . There aren’t any facilities on the Channel Islands, so make sure to bring enough food and water with you.

Santa Cruz Island is the largest and by far most popular island for day-trippers. The ride over typically takes a little over an hour and is often accompanied by whale sightings! Once you reach the idyllic island, there are plenty of stunning hikes to choose from, as well as water-based activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and diving.

Anacapa Island is a much smaller island, though another great day trip option. Explore the pristine island via a two-mile trail, spot an abundance of marine wildlife along the coast, or hop into a kayak from East Anacapa.

Where to Eat in Ventura, CA

While you’ll need to put your kitchenette to good use and pack a lunch with you for the Channel Islands, Ventura does offer a wide array of amazing restaurants to check out before or after your day trip!

Brophy Bros – 1559 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura, CA 93001: For incredibly fresh seafood with views of the harbor, make a dinner reservation at this popular waterfront restaurant. Their outdoor patio is an especially perfect spot to enjoy your evening after a long day of exploring the island.

Pete’s Breakfast House – 2055 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001: Since the early 80’s, this diner-style eatery has been the go-to breakfast spot of Ventura. Breakfast is served all day and all meals are made from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. Before you leave, be sure to try Pete’s famous, homemade strawberry jam!

Campgrounds Near Ventura, CA

Hobson Beach Park Campground -5210 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ventura, CA 93001: Fall asleep to the calming sounds of the waves rolling in at this ocean-front campground. The site is open year-round, and reservations can be made online. Facilities include fire pits, hot showers, a concession stand, and full hookups.

Foster Red Mountain Park – 247 Casitas Vista Rd, Ventura, CA 93001: This forested campground was developed in 1906 and offers plenty of tree shade, as well as numerous trailheads to explore. The year-round site accepts online reservations, and facilities include full hookups, potable water, and fire pits.

Day 10- Drive from Ventura to Los Angeles, CA

After exploring all nine of California’s incredible national parks, it’s sadly time to pack up your camper van and begin driving back to the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles . From Ventura, the ride should take about one and a half hours. Just remember to account for LA traffic, as you’ll need to have returned your van by your designated drop-off time.

Why Rent a Camper Van for a California National Parks Road Trip?

Renting a camper van from Los Angeles is the ideal way to set off on a California National Parks tour. This is the perfect way to experience the Los Angeles National Park. Compared to a standard RV, a camper van will allow for more freedom and far less stress. These are just a few of the reasons why an Escape Camper Van is the best option for your west coast excursion:

Mobility: This California National Parks road trip itinerary will take you along winding coastal roads, rugged mountains, vast desert landscapes, and everything in between. Because our camper vans are so much more compact than a traditional RV , they’re much easier to maneuver through various terrains. Their smaller size also makes it much easier to fit into tight parking spaces and narrow camping spots.

Easy to Drive: Unlike being behind the wheel of a massive RV, our camper vans are similar in size to a large family vehicle. Their smaller size makes them much easier and far less intimidating to drive than a typical RV.

No Need for Electric or Sewer Hookups: Many of the campgrounds you’ll encounter on this trip offer minimal facilities and do not have hookups. While this would pose a problem for an RV, our camper vans are self-contained and, therefore, do not need hookups. This way, you can spend less time stressing about finding a suitable campsite and more time enjoying California’s captivating scenery.

Adventure Ready: With fully equipped kitchenettes and beds already set up, our camper vans ensure you have everything you need right at your fingertips. Traveling in a camper van allows you to be spontaneous throughout your trip, rather than dealing with the logistics of a traditional RV.

Reserve With Escape Camper Vans for Your California National Parks Road Trip

Trek through lava tubes, hike along impressive granite cliffs, and jump into the crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. From the arid desert of Death Valley to gazing up at the Redwoods along the northern coastline, you’ll see it all on this epic California National Parks road trip. To embark on your unforgettable West Coast adventure, click the button below and reserve your dream Escape Camper Van today!

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Best california national parks to visit in the summer months, national park road trip ideas, quick tips for visiting 10 of the most popular national parks, things to do at sequoia national park, alternatives to the popular national parks in utah.

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California National Park Discovery

7 days, las vegas to san francisco.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

From the world’s largest trees to the lowest point of elevation in the United States, this trip packs a punch! Head out on a week-long adventure from Las Vegas and take in the majesty of a few of California’s most alluring national parks. Visit a land of extremes in Death Valley, drive down lonely roads that seem to unravel in a straight line forever, try to wrap your arms around the famous Sequoias in Sequoia National Park, and tap into your inner John Muir as you witness the breathtaking views of Yosemite. There’s no doubt that this is a week filled with must-sees, all you have to do is pack up and go!

Las Vegas to San Francisco

Special offers, is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 13.

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

See how your trip uplifts communities

In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

Help us spread love around the world — with trees! Together with Planeterra, we'll plant one tree in your name for every travel day.

Trees planted for this trip: 7

Ripple Score

Want to create ripples that change lives? The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 85

Places visited

• United States

Day 1 Las Vegas, Death Valley and Bakersfield

In the morning, after a brief orientation with your CEO the group will depart Las Vegas and head to Death Valley. You’ll visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you’ll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park’s landscapes with visits to Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point. Learn about Borax mining and if there's time, stop at the sand dunes. In the evening, settle into your hotel in Bakersfield and get some rest for tomorrow’s adventure.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 sequoia national park.

Spend the day travelling to Sequoia National Park, home to granite cliffs and ancient giant trees. Once you arrive, set out on a short afternoon hike to explore and stare up in wonder at the tallest trees in the world. Walk the half mile down to General Sherman to see the world’s largest tree at 83 meters (275 feet) high. Trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Later, we head to the hotel in Visalia

Day 3 Sequoia National Park

Immerse yourself in Sequoia with a full day to hike in the park. Visit Grant Grove for more opportunities to marvel at these rare giants among the forest. If you’re looking for 360-degree views head up the 2 mile round-trip Buena Vista Peak trailhead to see the High Sierra and the valley below.

Meals included:

Day 4 yosemite national park.

Hit the road again and travel north through the Sierras to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. Head straight into the park to take in iconic sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall.

Day 5 Yosemite National Park

It’s all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite today. From the valley floor, take the park shuttle system to one of the most iconic trails in the park. Hike alongside the Merced River to climb the Mist Trail, getting sprayed by the waters of Vernal Fall. See the water rushing over the edge before crossing the river and climbing the steps to Nevada Fall. From the top enjoy views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, and Mount Broderick.

Later, enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan, or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley.

Day 6 Yosemite National Park/San Francisco

Leave Yosemite in the morning and drive across the Central Valley with the group to San Francisco. Join your CEO for a driving tour through some of San Francisco's most iconic highlights. We will drive to the bohemian neighborhood of Haight Ashbury for lunch, followed by a drive through the Golden Gate park. What trip to San Fran would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge? Depending on time, step foot on this famous red suspension bridge or find a great viewing point to take some photos. There is free time in the evening to explore the colorful Fisherman's wharf.

Day 7 San Francisco

Spend a free morning in the city searching for the best place to have breakfast before departing. The tour ends mid morning.

What's Included

• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
• Death Valley National Park visit
• Sequoia National Park visit with hike to the General Sherman Tree
• Yosemite National Park visit and hiking in the valley
• Free time in San Francisco to visit famous landmarks
• Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments with hiking and walking excursions
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotel (6 nts).

2 lunches Allow USD310-405 for meals not included.

Transportation

Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.

Staff & experts

1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $949.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

North American Tour

Below is a list of upcoming Hamilton tour stops.

Click the buttons to buy tickets or get more info for each city., fort myers, fl, fort worth, tx, see all performances →, enter the ticket lottery, more information here →, check out our cast, north american tour cast →.

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15 people injured when tram collides with guardrail at Universal Studios theme park near Los Angeles

FILE - The Universal Studios Hollywood officially reopens to the public at 25% capacity with COVID-19 protocols in place in Los Angeles, on April 16, 2021. A tram accident at Universal Studios in Los Angeles injured multiple people Saturday night, April 20, 2024, authorities and the company said. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

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UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers.”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol’s statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn’t specify a number.

Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Sunday afternoon that tours have resumed with a modified route.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority,” the statement said.

The highway patrol, which is leading the investigation, said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.

Kid Cudi cancels tour: Ankle broken at Coachella is ‘much more serious,’ needs surgery

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Kid Cudi is canceling his upcoming Insano: Engage the Rage World Tour after finding out his broken ankle is “much more serious” than he thought.

“Guys, so, I have a broken calcaneus,” Cudi posted Wednesday on social media. “Im headed to surgery now and there’s gonna be a long recovery time. We have to cancel the tour so I can focus on getting better to be out there in top shape to rage with you all.”

Kid Cudi is ‘hoping’ his Coachella broken ankle will be healed in time for Insano tour

Kid Cudi offers an update on the ankle he broke jumping off the Sahara stage on the last day of Coachella 2024. He seems upbeat, albeit a little uncertain.

April 23, 2024

The calcaneus is more commonly known as the heel bone. While some ankle fractures can heal in weeks, a broken calcaneus has a longer recovery time. “This type of fracture commonly occurs during a high-energy event — such as a car crash or a fall from a ladder — when the heel is crushed under the weight of the body,” the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says on its website . Surgery is often required to prevent heel deformity.

This, friends, is why you don’t jump off one of the tallest stages at Coachella.

“There’s just no way I can bounce back in time to give 100%,” Cudi said. “The injury is much more serious than I thought.”

The U.S. leg of the Insano tour was supposed to start June 28 in Austin, Texas, and conclude with a show in Los Angeles on Aug. 30. Kid Cudi planned to head to Europe in early 2025; it’s unclear whether that part of the tour is still on.

Drake removed from lawsuit over Astroworld crowd crush that left 10 fans dead

A judge removes Drake, who performed with Travis Scott at the 2021 Astroworld concert, from a suit filed by families of the 10 fans who died in a crowd crush.

April 12, 2024

The rapper said that ticket holders will be contacted by email and receive a full refund. Also, new tour dates will be announced as soon as possible.

In a video posted earlier this week and captured by TMZ , Kid Cudi said with a chuckle, “This is what happens when a 40-year-old man tries to prance around offstage like he’s 26, like he used to do back in the day.” He added that he was “hoping” to be healed up in time to hit the road.

So much for that idea.

“I’m so sorry fam and I love you all so much, thanks for the endless love and support. Im really disappointed as im sure you guys are too, but I will be back. Thats a promise,” the rapper wrote Wednesday.

“Im ok, just a lil soreness, but im in good spirits.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Willis (@kidcudi)

More to Read

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April 10, 2024

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Christie D’Zurilla is an assistant editor for entertainment news on the Fast Break team. A graduate of USC, she joined the Los Angeles Times in 2003 as a copy editor, started writing about celebrities in 2009 and has more than 34 years of journalism experience in Southern California.

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