By California is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the U.S., and what better way to experience them than by embarking on a road trip through the state’s iconic national parks? From the towering redwoods and granite cliffs to the stark beauty of desert valleys, this 10-day road trip loop will take you through seven of the state’s most stunning national parks, offering endless opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and connecting with nature. Whether you’re exploring Yosemite’s granite peaks, gazing up at Sequoia’s giant trees, or watching the stars in Joshua Tree, this journey is an adventure you’ll never forget.
Overview
Starting and ending in San Francisco, this loop covers Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Pinnacles, Lassen Volcanic, and Redwood National Parks. If you have extra time, Channel Islands National Park can be added as an optional detour for a truly unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. Expect scenic drives, incredible hikes, and a variety of landscapes that showcase California’s natural diversity.
Brief Overview of the Parks
- Yosemite National Park: Famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine vistas.
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks: Home to the world’s largest trees and dramatic canyons.
- Death Valley National Park: The hottest and driest place in North America, with surreal landscapes.
- Joshua Tree National Park: A desert wilderness filled with iconic Joshua trees and stargazing spots.
- Pinnacles National Park: Known for its volcanic spires, caves, and California condors.
- Lassen Volcanic National Park: Features bubbling geothermal springs, fumaroles, and alpine lakes.
- Redwood National and State Parks: Majestic coastal redwoods and lush fern canyons.
- Channel Islands National Park (Optional): Remote islands with abundant wildlife and outdoor activities.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: San Francisco → Yosemite National Park (4 hrs / 170 miles)
Start your adventure by heading east to Yosemite National Park, a place that defines the term “natural wonder.” After a scenic drive, you’ll be greeted with iconic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. For the adventurous, the Mist Trail offers a challenging hike with views of Vernal and Nevada Falls.
Day 2: Yosemite National Park → Kings Canyon (3.5 hrs / 140 miles)
Spend the morning in Yosemite before heading south to Kings Canyon. Take the scenic route through the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, stopping at highlights like Grizzly Falls and Zumwalt Meadow. Later, transition to Sequoia National Park to see the towering General Sherman Tree and take in stunning views from Moro Rock. Overnight in Three Rivers.
Day 3: Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks (1 hr scenic driving between parks / 60 miles)
Explore the dramatic Kings Canyon in the morning before heading over to Sequoia. Walk among the giant sequoias in the Giant Forest and take the Congress Trail. Cap off the day with a sunset climb up Moro Rock for sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Day 4: Sequoia → Death Valley National Park (6 hrs / 280 miles)
From the lush forests of Sequoia, drive toward the vast, arid landscape of Death Valley. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and explore the colorful hills of Artist’s Palette. End the day with a breathtaking sunset at Zabriskie Point before staying overnight in Furnace Creek.
Day 5: Death Valley → Joshua Tree National Park (4 hrs / 230 miles)
Next, head to Joshua Tree, where the unique desert landscape and iconic Joshua trees create a surreal atmosphere. Explore the Hidden Valley Trail, visit Skull Rock, and enjoy panoramic views at Keys View. Spend the night in the nearby town of Joshua Tree.
Optional Detour: Channel Islands National Park (Ventura – 3 hrs / 175 miles from Joshua Tree)
If time permits, take a detour to Channel Islands National Park. Travel to Ventura, catch a ferry to Santa Cruz Island, and enjoy hiking, kayaking, or snorkeling before returning to the main road trip loop.
Day 6: Joshua Tree → Pinnacles National Park (5.5–6 hrs / 340 miles)
Leave the desert behind and head north to Pinnacles National Park. Known for its towering volcanic spires, Pinnacles offers fantastic hikes such as the Bear Gulch Cave Trail and High Peaks Trail. Look for California condors soaring overhead as you explore this unique landscape.
Day 7: Pinnacles → Lassen Volcanic National Park (6.5–7 hrs / 360 miles)
Continue your journey to Lassen Volcanic National Park, where geothermal features and alpine lakes await. Hike the Bumpass Hell Trail to see steaming vents, or paddle around Manzanita Lake for a more relaxing experience. For a challenging hike, climb the Cinder Cone Trail to see the Painted Dunes.
Day 8–9: Lassen → Redwood National & State Parks (5.5 hrs / 250 miles)
Next, venture north to the towering redwoods of Redwood National Park. Walk through the Avenue of the Giants, visit the Fern Canyon, and explore Lady Bird Johnson Grove. A scenic drive through Prairie Creek Redwoods will offer even more opportunities to marvel at these ancient trees.
Day 10: Redwood → San Francisco (5 hrs / 320 miles)
Conclude your adventure with a stunning drive back to San Francisco along Highway 101. Stop in Mendocino for cliffside views and enjoy the coastal beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore before returning to the city.
Need More Time? 14-Day Itinerary Extension
If you have more time, you can easily stretch this itinerary to 14 days, allowing for more in-depth exploration of the parks. With extra days, you can add additional hikes, enjoy leisurely mornings, and take detours to special places like the Channel Islands or extra days in Yosemite and Sequoia.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
- Summer (July–August): Great for higher elevations like Yosemite, though it’s peak season, so expect crowds.
- Fall (September–October): Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and stunning fall foliage.
- Winter (November–March): Ideal for desert parks like Death Valley and Joshua Tree; snow enhances the beauty of Yosemite and Sequoia.
Packing List
- America the Beautiful National Parks Pass
- Sturdy hiking boots and lightweight trail shoes
- Layered clothing for varying climates
- Hydration pack or water bottles
- Camping gear if staying inside the parks
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Offline maps/GPS device for remote areas
- Snacks for long stretches on the road
Where to Stay
For accommodations, consider staying in nearby towns for a mix of convenience and charm. Popular towns include Mariposa near Yosemite, Three Rivers for Sequoia, Furnace Creek for Death Valley, and Crescent City for Redwood National Park.
Fun Facts
- Death Valley recorded the highest temperature on Earth at 134°F.
- General Sherman Tree in Sequoia is the largest tree on Earth by volume.
- Pinnacles is one of the best places to spot California condors.
- Redwood trees can grow taller than the Statue of Liberty and live for over 2,000 years.
- Lassen Volcanic features all four types of volcanoes in one park.
Final Thoughts
This California National Park road trip offers a diverse and awe-inspiring adventure. From desert landscapes to towering trees, bubbling hot springs, and endless stargazing, this journey will immerse you in the natural beauty of the Golden State. Whether you opt for the 10-day loop or extend your trip, it’s an adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime.
