Morning: Depart Petaluma early and embark on the scenic 180‑mile drive eastward, crossing the rolling hills of the Coast Range and the vast Central Valley. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you ascend toward the high desert of the Eastern Sierra.
Afternoon: Arrive at Mono Lake and spend time exploring the iconic tufa towers that rise like stone spires from the alkaline water. A short walk along the South Tufa Trail offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem.
Evening: Set up camp at the Mono Lake Campground, where you can unwind beside the shoreline as the sunset paints the sky in pink and orange hues. Enjoy a campfire dinner (where permitted) and a quiet night under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Pack up camp and head north on Highway 395 toward the Sierra foothills, a drive of about 70 miles. Stop briefly at Lee Vining for supplies and a quick coffee before continuing.
Afternoon: Arrive at the trailhead for Lundy Canyon and embark on a moderate hike that winds through pine forests, past cascading waterfalls, and up to the high‑elevation alpine meadow. The trail’s rewarding views make it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
Evening: Pitch your tent at the Lundy Canyon Campground, nestled among towering pines. After dinner, enjoy the serenity of the canyon night sky and perhaps catch a glimpse of distant wildlife.
Find HotelsMorning: Break camp and drive the 45‑mile stretch over Tioga Pass (seasonal opening confirmed) into Yosemite National Park. Make a brief stop at Tuolumne Meadows to stretch your legs and admire the alpine basin.
Afternoon: Descend into Yosemite Valley, visiting iconic landmarks such as Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall. Take a leisurely walk along the valley floor to soak in the grandeur of the granite cliffs.
Evening: Settle into the Yosemite Valley Campground (North or Lower Pines), where you can enjoy a sunset view of El Capitan. End the day with a campfire (where allowed) and a starlit night in the heart of the park.
Find HotelsMorning: Start early with a short hike to Glacier Point for sweeping vistas of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. The viewpoint is ideal for sunrise photography.
Afternoon: Begin the 300‑mile return journey to Petaluma, stopping in Mariposa for a quick lunch and fuel. The drive offers a pleasant mix of mountain scenery and valley farmland.
Evening: Arrive back in Petaluma by dusk, concluding the adventure with memories of high‑altitude lakes, alpine canyons, and world‑renowned park landscapes.
Find HotelsIf you wish to extend the trip, consider adding an extra night at Tuolumne Meadows to explore the High Sierra trails or a day in Yosemite for a hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls. To shorten the itinerary, you could skip the Lundy Canyon hike and head straight from Mono Lake to Yosemite, saving a day of driving and camping while still experiencing the park’s highlights.