Northern California Family Road Trip

Day 1: Redwoods Exploration

Redwoods National and State Parks, California, USA

8:00AM

Explore Avenue of the Giants

Begin your day surrounded by towering redwoods, driving through the scenic Avenue of the Giants, marveling at the ancient giants.
Drive south on US-101 for 31 miles, then take the exit for Avenue of the Giants. It takes about 1 hour.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Founder's Grove

Enjoy a peaceful picnic among the majestic redwoods at Founder's Grove, a perfect spot for a family lunch.
Follow signs within the park to reach Founder's Grove. It's a short drive from Avenue of the Giants.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Fern Canyon

Embark on a magical hike through Fern Canyon, a lush canyon featured in movies like Jurassic Park, with its fern-covered walls.
Drive to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and follow signs to Fern Canyon. It's about a 1.5-hour drive.
State Park Entrance Fee, 2 hours
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Day 2: More Redwoods Adventures

Redwoods National and State Parks, California, USA

9:00AM

Trillium Falls Trail

Embark on a family-friendly hike along the Trillium Falls Trail, surrounded by lush greenery and serene redwoods.
Drive to the trailhead near the visitor center. It's a short drive from the main park area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Elk Meadow

Have a picnic lunch at Elk Meadow, watching for elk grazing in the meadow, a delightful experience for all ages.
Drive to Elk Meadow within the park. It's a scenic drive with possible wildlife sightings along the way.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Lady Bird Johnson Grove

Walk among the ancient redwoods in Lady Bird Johnson Grove, learning about the conservation efforts in the area.
Drive to the trailhead for Lady Bird Johnson Grove. It's a short drive from the main park area.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: San Francisco City Exploration

San Francisco, California, USA

9:00AM

Golden Gate Bridge

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a must-see landmark in San Francisco.
Drive or take public transportation to the bridge. Parking is available at various points for different viewing angles.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Fisherman's Wharf

Head to Fisherman's Wharf for a delicious seafood lunch and explore the bustling waterfront area.
Drive or take public transportation to Fisherman's Wharf. Parking is available in nearby lots.
Cost of lunch, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island for an intriguing tour of the historic prison, offering a glimpse into its notorious past.
Take a ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz Island. Purchase tickets in advance.
Ferry ticket cost, 3 hours
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Day 4: More San Francisco Adventures

San Francisco, California, USA

9:00AM

Explore Chinatown

Stroll through vibrant Chinatown, the oldest in North America, and experience the rich culture and delicious cuisine.
Drive or take public transportation to Chinatown. Parking may be challenging, so public transit is recommended.
Cost of souvenirs, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Union Square

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Union Square, a bustling plaza surrounded by shops and theaters, perfect for a family meal.
Walk or take public transportation to Union Square. Many dining options are available.
Cost of lunch, 1-2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Exploratorium

Engage in interactive science exhibits at the Exploratorium, a hands-on museum offering fun learning experiences for all ages.
Drive or take public transportation to the museum. Purchase tickets in advance.
Museum admission, 2-3 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Drive to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

8:00AM

Drive to Yosemite

Embark on a scenic drive to Yosemite National Park, enjoying the picturesque views of the Sierra Nevada mountains along the way.
Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. Take CA-120 E for a beautiful drive through the mountains.
Gas and snacks, 4-5 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Lodge

Arrive at your lodge in Yosemite National Park, check-in, and settle into your accommodations for the next two days of adventure.
Follow signs to your lodge within the park. Check-in time may vary, so plan accordingly.
Lodge reservation, 1 hour

3:00PM

Yosemite Valley Tour

Join a guided tour or set off on your own to explore the iconic Yosemite Valley, home to majestic waterfalls and granite cliffs.
Drive or take park shuttles to Yosemite Valley. Guided tours are available for a more informative experience.
Tour cost (if applicable), 3 hours
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Day 6: Yosemite Adventures

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

9:00AM

Hiking in Yosemite Valley

Embark on a family-friendly hike in Yosemite Valley, choosing from trails like Yosemite Falls or Mist Trail for breathtaking views.
Drive or take park shuttles to the trailhead of your chosen hike. Remember to carry water and snacks.
Park entry fee, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Glacier Point

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at Glacier Point, overlooking Half Dome and Yosemite Valley, a perfect spot for family bonding.
Drive to Glacier Point for panoramic views. Picnic areas are available near the viewpoint.
Picnic supplies, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bike or Raft Rental

Rent bikes for a leisurely ride or go for a family-friendly rafting adventure in Yosemite, adding more excitement to your day.
Rent bikes or arrange rafting at Yosemite Valley or nearby locations. Equipment rental fees apply.
Rental fees, 2-3 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

8:00AM

Early Morning Wildlife Watching

Wake up early for a chance to spot wildlife like deer, squirrels, and birds in the serene surroundings of Yosemite National Park.
Take a quiet walk near your lodge or drive to spots known for wildlife sightings within the park.
Free, 1-2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Mariposa Grove

Explore the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, a magical forest filled with some of the largest trees on Earth.
Drive to Mariposa Grove for an awe-inspiring walk among the giant sequoias. Shuttle service is available.
Park entry fee, 2 hours

1:00PM

Farewell to Yosemite

Say goodbye to Yosemite National Park as you head towards your next adventure, carrying memories of nature's wonder.
Check out of your lodge and start your journey towards your next destination, reminiscing about the beauty of Yosemite.
Lunch and gas, Varies
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