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California Adventure: Yosemite & Sequoia National Parks Itinerary

Viewed by 156 travelers

Day 1: San Francisco Arrival

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Indulge in freshly baked pastries and coffee at Tartine Bakery to kick start your adventure.
Hop on a taxi or shuttle to pick up your rental car at San Francisco International Airport.
$15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Embark on a scenic drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
Take Highway 120 East for approximately 4 hours to reach the park entrance.
Gas money, 4 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Upper Pines Campground

Set up camp at Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite National Park, surrounded by towering pine trees and stunning views.
Follow the signs within the park to reach Upper Pines Campground. Advance reservations are recommended.
$26, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Curry Village

Savor a hearty meal at Curry Village, known for its delicious dining options and cozy atmosphere.
Head to Curry Village within Yosemite Valley for dinner.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 2: Yosemite Exploration

Yosemite National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Enjoy a filling breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge before starting your day of exploration.
Drive to Yosemite Valley Lodge from Upper Pines Campground.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike to Yosemite Falls

Embark on a scenic hike to witness the magnificent Yosemite Falls up close. Don't forget to bring water and snacks.
Start the trail from Yosemite Valley, following signs to Yosemite Falls.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Mirror Lake

Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch by the tranquil Mirror Lake, surrounded by breathtaking views of Half Dome.
Drive to Mirror Lake and find a scenic spot for your picnic.
$10, 1 hour

4:00PM

Mariposa Grove Visit

Discover the ancient Giant Sequoias at Mariposa Grove, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
Drive to Mariposa Grove and explore the various trails showcasing these majestic trees.
$35, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ahwahnee Dining Room

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Ahwahnee Dining Room, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious cuisine.
Make a reservation at Ahwahnee Dining Room within Yosemite Valley.
$50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Sequoia National Park Arrival

Sequoia National Park, USA

8:00AM

Drive to Sequoia National Park

Embark on a picturesque drive from Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park, marveling at the diverse landscapes.
Take Highway 41 South and Highway 180 East for approximately 5 hours to reach Sequoia National Park.
Gas money, 5 hours

1:00PM

Check-in at Lodgepole Campground

Set up camp at Lodgepole Campground, nestled among the giant sequoia trees and offering a serene camping experience.
Follow the signs within Sequoia National Park to reach Lodgepole Campground. Advance reservations are recommended.
$22, 1 hour

3:00PM

Tokopah Falls Hike

Embark on a moderate hike to Tokopah Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and granite cliffs.
Begin the trail from Lodgepole Campground and follow the signs to Tokopah Falls.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Wuksachi Lodge

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Wuksachi Lodge, offering a cozy atmosphere and delectable dishes inspired by the region.
Head to Wuksachi Lodge within Sequoia National Park for dinner.
$30, 1 hour
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Day 4: Sequoia Exploration

Sequoia National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Peaks Restaurant

Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Peaks Restaurant, known for its panoramic views and delicious breakfast options.
Drive to Peaks Restaurant located within Sequoia National Park.
$20, 1 hour

10:00AM

General Sherman Tree Visit

Marvel at the world's largest tree, the General Sherman Tree, located in the heart of Sequoia National Park.
Take the shuttle from the Giant Forest Museum to the General Sherman Tree area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Crescent Meadow

Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch at Crescent Meadow, a picturesque meadow surrounded by sequoia trees and blooming wildflowers.
Drive to Crescent Meadow and find a scenic spot for your picnic.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Moro Rock Hike

Conquer the challenging Moro Rock hike for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Great Western Divide.
Drive to Moro Rock Trailhead and embark on the steep climb to reach the summit.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lodgepole Village Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Lodgepole Village Restaurant, offering a diverse menu with options for every palate.
Head to Lodgepole Village Restaurant within Sequoia National Park for dinner.
$25, 1 hour
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Day 5: Sequoia to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Drive to Los Angeles

Embark on a scenic drive from Sequoia National Park to Los Angeles, enjoying the diverse landscapes as you head towards the city.
Take Highway 198 West and Highway 99 South to reach Los Angeles in approximately 4.5 hours.
Gas money, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Santa Monica Pier Visit

Explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier, featuring an amusement park, Ferris wheel, arcade, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Drive to Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the various attractions and dining options.
$30, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Original Pantry

Indulge in a classic American meal at The Original Pantry, a beloved diner in Downtown Los Angeles known for its generous portions.
Head to The Original Pantry in Downtown Los Angeles for a satisfying dinner.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 6: Los Angeles Exploration

Los Angeles, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Republique

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Republique, known for its artisanal pastries and savory dishes.
Drive to Republique in Los Angeles for a breakfast treat.
$20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Griffith Observatory Visit

Discover the wonders of the universe at Griffith Observatory, offering panoramic views of Los Angeles and engaging exhibits.
Drive up to Griffith Observatory and enjoy the exhibits and views.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Savor a diverse culinary experience at Grand Central Market, home to various food stalls offering global cuisines.
Head to Grand Central Market and explore the multitude of dining options.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, lined with stars dedicated to legendary figures in the entertainment industry.
Drive to Hollywood and explore the Walk of Fame at your leisure.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Langer's Delicatessen

Enjoy a quintessential deli experience at Langer's Delicatessen, known for its famous #19 pastrami sandwich.
Head to Langer's Delicatessen for a delicious dinner.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 7: Departure from Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bottega Louie

Savor a decadent breakfast at Bottega Louie, famous for its exquisite pastries and all-day brunch options.
Drive to Bottega Louie in Los Angeles for a gourmet breakfast experience.
$25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit The Getty Center

Explore the impressive art collection and stunning architecture of The Getty Center, offering panoramic views of Los Angeles.
Drive to The Getty Center and immerse yourself in art and culture.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at The Grove

Indulge in some retail therapy at The Grove, a popular outdoor shopping and entertainment complex in Los Angeles.
Drive to The Grove and enjoy shopping at a variety of stores.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Final Dinner at Bestia

Conclude your California adventure with a memorable dinner at Bestia, known for its innovative Italian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Head to Bestia for a culinary farewell to your travels.
$50, 2 hours

8:00PM

Departure from Los Angeles

Head to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for your departing flight, bidding farewell to the golden state of California.
Drive to Los Angeles International Airport to return your rental car and board your flight home.
Variable, 1 hour
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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

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