Morning: Depart from Imperial Beach, CA early morning and enjoy the scenic coastal drive north. Stop for breakfast near San Diego Bay to fuel up before hitting the road.
Afternoon: Arrive in Merced by early afternoon. Explore the Merced County Courthouse Museum and stroll through downtown's local shops and cafes.
Evening: Dine at a local restaurant in Merced and relax at your accommodation, preparing for the next day’s adventure into Yosemite.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Merced early to enter Yosemite National Park via the South Entrance. Begin your day by visiting Yosemite Valley and witnessing iconic views of El Capitan and Half Dome.
Afternoon: Enjoy hiking one of the park’s popular trails such as the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls. Have a picnic surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Evening: Stay inside or near the park and attend a ranger talk or simply watch the sunset at Glacier Point.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a scenic morning drive from Yosemite towards the Eastern Sierra. Stop briefly at the Tioga Pass area to enjoy alpine views and maybe some photography.
Afternoon: Arrive in Tom's Place, a quaint mountain community. Explore local trails or relax by Crowley Lake.
Evening: Have dinner at a local eatery and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Tom’s Place heading southwest. Consider a short morning hike or a quick visit to Mammoth Lakes nearby before hitting the road.
Afternoon: Begin the long drive back to Imperial Beach, CA. Stop for lunch in a charming town along the way such as Bakersfield.
Evening: Arrive back at Imperial Beach, unwind and enjoy a nice dinner by the coast reflecting on your journey.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: $210
To extend your trip, spend an extra day hiking and camping inside Yosemite to fully experience its natural wonders. Alternatively, to reduce duration, consider skipping Tom’s Place and driving directly from Yosemite to Imperial Beach, saving one day and driving time.