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Northern California Family Road Trip

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: Redwoods Exploration

Redwoods National and State Parks, California, USA

8:00AM

Explore Avenue of the Giants

Discover the majestic redwoods along the scenic Avenue of the Giants, a breathtaking start to your family road trip.
Drive south on US-101 for 31 miles, then follow signs to Avenue of the Giants. Allow about 1 hour for the drive.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Founder's Grove

Enjoy a relaxing family picnic amidst the ancient redwoods at Founder's Grove, a tranquil setting for lunch.
Drive 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

Immerse yourselves in the enchanting beauty of Fern Canyon, a magical location known for its lush greenery and unique fern-covered walls.
Drive to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park for Fern Canyon. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
State Park Entrance Fee, 2 hours
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Day 2: Redwoods Adventures Continue

Redwoods National and State Parks, California, USA

9:00AM

Trillium Falls Trail Hike

Embark on a scenic family hike on the Trillium Falls Trail, surrounded by nature's beauty and serenity.
Drive to the trailhead near the visitor center for Trillium Falls Trail. It's a short drive within the park.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Elk Meadow

Savor a picnic lunch at Elk Meadow, where you may spot elk grazing in the peaceful meadow, adding a touch of wildlife to your meal.
Drive to Elk Meadow within the park for a delightful picnic spot with potential elk sightings.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Lady Bird Johnson Grove

Walk among the ancient giants in Lady Bird Johnson Grove, learning about the redwood forest conservation efforts through an educational excursion.
Drive to Lady Bird Johnson Grove trailhead to start your exploration. It's a short drive from the main park area.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Arrival in San Francisco

San Francisco, California, USA

9:00AM

Golden Gate Bridge Visit

Begin your San Francisco visit with an iconic sightseeing stop at the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Drive or take public transportation to the bridge for a memorable start to your day.
Free, 1-2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront district known for its culinary delights.
Head to Fisherman's Wharf by car or public transport to taste the fresh flavors of the sea.
Cost of lunch, 2 hours

3:00PM

Alcatraz Island Exploration

Embark on a journey to Alcatraz Island for an intriguing tour of the historic prison, uncovering its notorious past and captivating stories.
Take a ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz Island. Ensure you secure tickets in advance for this experience.
Ferry ticket cost, 3 hours
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Day 4: San Francisco Exploration

San Francisco, California, USA

9:00AM

Explore Chinatown

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture and bustling streets of Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest in North America.
Walk or take public transportation to Chinatown for an authentic cultural experience.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mission District

Satisfy your taste buds with a diverse array of cuisines at the Mission District, a melting pot of flavors and cultures.
Head to the Mission District for a delicious lunch at one of the many eateries showcasing international cuisine.
Cost of lunch, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Exploratorium

Engage in interactive exhibits and hands-on learning at the Exploratorium, a science museum suitable for all ages.
Take public transportation or drive to the Exploratorium for a fun and educational afternoon.
Museum admission fee, 2-3 hours
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Day 5: Yosemite National Park Arrival

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

9:00AM

Drive to Yosemite Valley

Embark on a scenic drive to Yosemite Valley, the heart of Yosemite National Park, surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and waterfalls.
Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite Valley, which takes approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
Gas and park entrance fee, 4-5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch with a View

Picnic amidst the natural beauty of Yosemite Valley, with towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls as your backdrop.
Find a scenic spot in Yosemite Valley for a picturesque picnic lunch with nature all around.
Cost of lunch, 1 hour

3:00PM

Yosemite Falls Hike

Embark on a family-friendly hike to witness the magnificent Yosemite Falls up close, a refreshing and awe-inspiring experience.
Start the hike from the Lower Yosemite Falls trailhead, offering a relatively easy walk to the base of the falls.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Yosemite Valley Exploration

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

9:00AM

Mist Trail Adventure

Embark on the Mist Trail adventure to witness the beauty of Vernal and Nevada Falls, with misty sprays and rainbows along the trail.
Start the Mist Trail hike from Happy Isles shuttle bus stop, exploring the breathtaking waterfalls and natural beauty.
Free, 4-5 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Sentinel Beach

Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch at Sentinel Beach, offering serene views of the Merced River and surrounding granite cliffs.
Drive or take the shuttle to Sentinel Beach for a tranquil lunch spot by the river.
Cost of lunch, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bike or Tram Tour

Explore Yosemite Valley with a leisurely bike ride or ranger-led tram tour, gaining insights into the park's history and natural wonders.
Rent bikes or join a tram tour at Yosemite Valley Visitor Center for a guided exploration of the park.
Bike rental or tram tour fee, 2-3 hours
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Day 7: Final Day in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

9:00AM

Mariposa Grove Excursion

Embark on an adventure to Mariposa Grove to marvel at the ancient giant sequoias, including the iconic Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
Drive to Mariposa Grove parking area to start your exploration of these magnificent sequoias.
Park entrance fee, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch with Giant Views

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the towering giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, creating unforgettable family memories in nature.
Find a picturesque spot within Mariposa Grove for a unique picnic experience surrounded by ancient trees.
Cost of lunch, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure for San Francisco

Bid farewell to the natural wonders of Yosemite and embark on your journey back to San Francisco, concluding your family road trip.
Drive back to San Francisco via the route you took to Yosemite Valley, allowing around 4-5 hours for the return journey.
Gas and toll fees, 4-5 hours
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