Viewed by 117 travelers

A 5-day Adventure Itinerary in California

  1. Day 1: Yosemite National Park
    3 hours 30 minutes from San Francisco

    Start your adventure with the stunning Yosemite National Park. Take a hike through the iconic granite cliffs, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that the park has to offer.

  2. Day 2: Lake Tahoe
    3 hours 45 minutes from Yosemite National Park

    Head to Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. Enjoy the crystal-clear water and stunning views as you hike or bike through the surrounding mountains and forests.

  3. Day 3: Big Sur
    4 hours from Lake Tahoe

    Drive down the scenic Route 1 to Big Sur, a rugged coastline with stunning views. Hike through the forested hills and redwood groves, and enjoy the beautiful beaches along the Pacific Ocean.

  4. Day 4: Joshua Tree National Park
    8 hours from Big Sur

    Explore Joshua Tree National Park, a unique desert landscape with a wide range of plant and animal life. Hike through the hills and canyons and explore the beautiful rock formations.

  5. Day 5: San Diego
    4 hours from Joshua Tree National Park

    End your adventure in San Diego, known for its beautiful beaches and perfect weather. Take a surfing lesson, visit the San Diego Zoo, or hike the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Yosemite National Park (1 day, $35 admission fee per vehicle)
  • Lake Tahoe (1 day, free)
  • Big Sur (1 day, free)
  • Joshua Tree National Park (1 day, $35 admission fee per vehicle)
  • San Diego (1 day, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($70 admission fees)

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Napa Valley or visiting more than one national park. If you have less time, consider skipping Lake Tahoe or spending fewer days in one location.

When are you going?
Add your start date and we'll check in at two weeks out, one week out, and the day before — bookings, packing, and a day-one brief. Reply to any of them if plans change.
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