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14-Day California National Parks Adventure from Los Angeles

Viewed by 129 travelers

Day 1: Explore LA

Los Angeles, CA on April 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Start your adventure with a delicious brunch at Sqirl, famous for its innovative breakfast dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
Enjoy a scenic drive through LA to reach the restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Griffith Observatory

Head to Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign.
Drive 15 minutes to Griffith Park.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Grab a classic California lunch at In-N-Out Burger to fuel up for the journey ahead.
Drive 20 minutes to the nearest In-N-Out.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Departure to Joshua Tree National Park

Hit the road and enjoy the scenic drive to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its unique landscapes and Joshua trees.
Deep dive into themed highways.
USD 10 for gas, 2 hours
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Day 2: Joshua Tree Exploration

Joshua Tree National Park, CA on April 7, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Crossroads Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious omelets and fresh coffee.
Drive 10 minutes to the cafe in Joshua Tree.
USD 18, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking Hidden Valley

Explore the Hidden Valley Trail, a 1-mile loop that offers stunning views of rock formations and unique desert flora.
Drive 15 minutes to Hidden Valley entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the rocks and trees, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Prepare pre-packed sandwiches.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Skull Rock

Visit the iconic Skull Rock and explore the area around it for unique photo opportunities.
Drive 10 minutes to Skull Rock.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cholla Cactus Garden

Wander through the Cholla Cactus Garden at sunset, where thousands of cacti shine brilliantly against the twilight sky.
Drive 20 minutes to the garden.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Stargazing

Stay for exceptional stargazing in one of the best dark sky parks in the US.
Stay in the area, setup nearby.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 3: More of Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park, CA on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Natural Sisters Cafe

Fuel up for a day of exploring with a healthy breakfast at Natural Sisters Cafe.
Drive 10 minutes to the cafe.
USD 18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Barker Dam Loop

Take the Barker Dam Loop Trail, a 1.3-mile hike that leads you to a historic dam and provides chances to see wildlife.
Drive 15 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pappy & Harriet’s

Head to Pappy & Harriet’s for a tasty lunch, which offers great BBQ and live music.
Drive 30 minutes to Pioneertown.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Rock Climbing

Join a guided rock climbing session for an adrenaline rush and a new perspective of the park.
Book in advance for transportation.
USD 100, 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening at Keys View

Conclude your day with a sunset view from Keys View, where you can see the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault.
Drive 30 minutes back to Keys View.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Death Valley Bound

Death Valley National Park, CA on April 9, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Enjoy a final breakfast at Crossroads Cafe before departing for Death Valley.
Drive 10 minutes.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Death Valley

Leave Joshua Tree and hit the road to Death Valley, aiming to arrive before noon.
Follow CA-62 and CA-127 for best routes.
USD 25 for gas, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Furnace Creek

Have lunch at the Furnace Creek Ranch, where you can learn more about the park’s history.
Drive 20 minutes from the entrance.
USD 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Dante's View

Drive up to Dante’s View for sweeping panoramic views of the valley below.
Drive 30 minutes up the mountain.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Badwater Basin

Experience the lowest point in North America by walking on the salt flats at Badwater Basin.
Drive 30 minutes from Dante's View.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Sunset at Zabriskie Point

Finish the day watching the sunset at Zabriskie Point, where the colorful badlands glow.
Drive 30 minutes to Zabriskie Point.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Explore Death Valley

Death Valley National Park, CA on April 10, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Furnace Creek

Have breakfast at the Furnace Creek Ranch, replenishing your energy for the day's adventures.
Stay in Furnace Creek.
USD 20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Stroll through the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, capturing incredible early morning photographs.
Drive 30 minutes to the dunes.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Titus Canyon Drive

Take the scenic Titus Canyon Drive, exploring its rock formations and colorful landscapes.
Drive 30 minutes to Titus Canyon.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Stovepipe Wells

Enjoy a casual lunch at Stovepipe Wells Village, ideal for a quick break.
Drive 45 minutes back to Stovepipe Wells.
USD 18, 1 hour

2:00PM

Salt Flat Exploration

Explore the fascinating salt flats along the Devil’s Golf Course, taking in the unique geology.
Drive 30 minutes to the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Evening at Furnace Creek

Relax and unwind back at Furnace Creek, enjoying the tranquil desert ambiance.
Drive 30 minutes back.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 6: Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park, CA on April 11, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Stovepipe Wells

Fuel up with breakfast at Stovepipe Wells before the long journey to Sequoia.
Eat locally while packing.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sequoia National Park

Take the scenic drive to Sequoia National Park, marveling at the changes in landscapes.
Take CA-99 N and CA-198 E.
USD 30 for gas, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wuksachi Lodge

Enjoy lunch at Wuksachi Lodge surrounded by giant sequoias.
Drive 30 minutes from the park entrance.
USD 25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Giant Forest Museum

Visit the Giant Forest Museum to learn about the unique ecology of the park's sequoias.
Drive 15 minutes to the museum.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk among the Giant Sequoias

Stroll through the Giant Forest, witnessing some of the largest trees on Earth.
Walk through the trees around the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Wuksachi Lodge

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Wuksachi Lodge, experiencing seasonal California cuisine.
Dine in at Wuksachi Lodge.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia National Park, CA on April 12, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Wuksachi Lodge

Enjoy breakfast at Wuksachi Lodge again, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Dine at the lodge.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kings Canyon Scenic Byway

Drive along the scenic Kings Canyon Byway, offering breathtaking views and stops.
Follow the designated scenic route.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch in Grant Grove

Stop for lunch at the Grant Grove restaurant surrounded by giant sequoias.
Drive 30 minutes to Grant Grove.
USD 25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit General Grant Tree

Witness the General Grant Tree, one of the largest living trees and a National Historic Landmark.
Drive 10 minutes to the tree.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hiking in Cedar Grove

Take a beautiful hike in Cedar Grove, where you'll see stunning river canyons and waterfalls.
Drive one hour to Cedar Grove.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cedar Grove

Enjoy dinner at the Cedar Grove restaurant while reflecting on the day.
Stay in Cedar Grove.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: More Kings Canyon

Kings Canyon National Park, CA on April 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Grove

Start your day with breakfast at the Cedar Grove restaurant, full of local flavors.
Stay at Cedar Grove.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike to Mist Falls

Embark on a hike to Mist Falls, a stunning 8-mile round trip rewarding you with waterfalls and scenic views.
Drive to the trailhead nearby.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch near Cedar Grove

Return from the hike and have a packed lunch amidst nature.
Enjoy your pre-packed lunch.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relaxation Time

Spend some time enjoying the peaceful surroundings at Cedar Grove.
Stay local and enjoy nature.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Kings Canyon

Take a leisurely drive back through Kings Canyon, taking in the beautiful sights.
Return to the byway.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cedar Grove

End the day with dinner at Cedar Grove restaurant, relaxing over a hearty meal.
Local dining.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, CA on April 14, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Grove

Enjoy one last breakfast at Cedar Grove before moving on to Yosemite.
At the restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Yosemite National Park

Make your way to Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Follow the CA-41 N route.
USD 30 for gas, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Ahwahnee

Savor lunch at The Ahwahnee, one of the most iconic hotels in the park.
Drive to The Ahwahnee lodge.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore Yosemite Valley

Take a walking tour through Yosemite Valley, witnessing breathtaking waterfalls and cliffs.
Stay within the valley area.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Visit El Capitan

Marvel at the towering granite monolith of El Capitan.
Walk to concert surface.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge

End your day with dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge while enjoying views of Yosemite Falls.
Staying nearby.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: More Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA on April 15, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Yosemite Lodge

Fuel up with breakfast at Yosemite Lodge to prepare for a day of adventure.
At the lodge.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Glacier Point

Drive to Glacier Point for breathtaking views over Yosemite Valley.
Drive 1 hour from the lodge.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hiking Sentinal Dome

Hike to Sentinel Dome for panoramic views of the park and surrounding mountains.
Hike from the Glacier Point area.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wawona Hotel

Dine at the historic Wawona Hotel, an iconic location in Yosemite.
Drive back towards the hotel.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Head to Mariposa Grove to see the giant sequoias, another breathtaking aspect of Yosemite.
Drive 30 minutes to Mariposa.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tenaya Lodge

Enjoy dinner at Tenaya Lodge to relax after a long day of exploring.
Drive 40 minutes to the lodge.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Explore Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, CA on April 16, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Tenaya Lodge

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at Tenaya Lodge, gearing up for an exciting drive to Lake Tahoe.
At the lodge.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lake Tahoe

Head to Lake Tahoe, one of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in the US.
Follow CA-41 and CA-89.
USD 30 for gas, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lakeside Pizza

Fuel up with delicious pizza at Lakeside Pizza while enjoying views of the lake.
Drive to Kings Beach.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax at Kings Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing at Kings Beach, enjoying the sun and the beautiful scenery.
Stay around Kings Beach.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Explore Emerald Bay

Take a scenic drive to Emerald Bay for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Drive 30 minutes to Emerald Bay.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Sticky Wicket

Enjoy a lovely dinner at The Sticky Wicket, known for its diverse menu and craft brews.
Drive to Tahoe City.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: More Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, CA on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sticky Wicket

Start your day with breakfast at The Sticky Wicket, lingering over a delightful meal.
At the restaurant.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Mount Tallac

Trek the challenging Mount Tallac trail for spectacular views over Lake Tahoe.
Drive to the trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Rest and enjoy your packed lunch amidst the forest scenery.
Enjoy your pre-packed lunch.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kayaking on Lake Tahoe

Rent a kayak for an unforgettable paddle on the pristine waters of Lake Tahoe.
Rent a kayak at Kings Beach.
USD 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Tahoe City

Unwind in Tahoe City, enjoying the charming shops and lovely ambiance.
Drive to Tahoe City.
Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Blue Angel Cafe

End your day with hearty American fare at The Blue Angel Cafe.
Drive to South Lake Tahoe.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: San Francisco Bound

San Francisco, CA on April 18, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Blue Angel Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Blue Angel Cafe.
At South Lake Tahoe.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to San Francisco

Depart from Lake Tahoe and head to San Francisco, ready for the final leg of your journey.
Follow US-50 W and I-80 W.
USD 30 for gas, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Treat yourself to fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, watching the iconic sea lions.
Visit the popular tourist area.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Pier 39

Stroll through Pier 39, exploring shops and enjoying panoramic bay views.
Walk around the pier.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island to explore the infamous historical site.
Ferry departs from Pier 33.
USD 40, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Scoma's

Conclude the day with a fantastic dinner at Scoma's, featuring fresh seafood.
At Fisherman's Wharf.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, CA on April 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama’s on Washington Square

Start your final day with breakfast at this cozy spot known for its French toast.
Drive or take public transport to the café.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Explore the expansive Golden Gate Park, filled with gardens, lakes, and stunning landscapes.
Drive to the park.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Park Chalet

Have a nice lunch overlooking the ocean, enjoying the views from Park Chalet.
Walk to Park Chalet from the park.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Haight-Ashbury

Wander through the historic Haight-Ashbury district, absorbing the colorful history of the 1960s.
Travel by tram or bus.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Chinatown

Dive into the culture and flavors of one of the oldest Chinatowns in North America.
Walk or use public transport.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Cliff House

End your California adventure with a memorable dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 60, 2 hours
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