1 Week California National Parks Road Trip: Epic 7-Day Itinerary

California is a land of superlatives, and nowhere is this more evident than in its stunning national parks. If you’re craving towering trees, dramatic canyons, and iconic vistas, a road trip through Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks is an absolute must. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.

Imagine standing next to a tree so big, you can barely wrap your arms around it. Or gazing down into a canyon so deep, it seems to touch the center of the earth. That’s the magic of a California national parks road trip. We’re talking about a journey through some of the most incredible places on Earth—Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite. Get ready to explore giant forests, towering mountains, and breathtaking waterfalls. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s an adventure into the heart of nature’s wonders.

1 Week California National Parks Itinerary

Ready for a week of jaw-dropping scenery and unforgettable adventures? We’re diving into the heart of California’s most iconic national parks, Sequoia & Kings Canyon (SEKI) and Yosemite.

This isn’t just a road trip; it’s a journey into a land of giants, where towering sequoia trees scrape the sky and granite cliffs rise like ancient fortresses. Prepare to be amazed as we explore deep canyons, witness cascading waterfalls, and stand in the shadows of some of the world’s largest living things. This seven-day itinerary is your ticket to experiencing the raw, majestic beauty of California’s wilderness.

Day 1: Let’s Go To Sequoia National Park 

Let’s explore a California staple, Sequoia National Park. What an incredible spot for your first day of a 1 week California National Parks Road Trip. This is a great place to experience the beauty of the Sierra with a short hike, scenic drive, and through wildlife viewing. 

It’s important to note that traveling to Sequoia National Park currently does not require a timed entry permit. With the recent climate of Federal Land funding, this may change so it’s important to look into this prior to your trip. An entry fee is required and can be paid at the gate or proir to arriva online or with an America the Beautiful Pass.

Enter the park via Highway 198, through the Foothills Visitor Center.

• Check out Tunnel Rock, a granite boulder that created a tunnel over the Generals Highway until the road was rerouted. If you want to take a closer look, accessible parking and a paved path provide easy access to the old roadway beneath Tunnel Rock.
• Explore the giant sequoias and hike the 2.9-mile Congress Trail to the General Sherman Tree.
• Visit the Giant Forest Museum to learn fascinating information about the ecology and history of the majestic giant sequoias, enriching your understanding of these ancient giants.
• Hike the Sunset Trail. The 1.6-mile, 147-foot of elevation gain trail to Sunset Rock is prfect for (you guessed it) sunset! There’s no better way to spend your firts night of the California National Parks road trip – but don’t forget your headlamp!

Sequoia National Park is the third most popular (of nine) National Parks in California. It’s exceptional in summer and early fall. Trailheads for a lot of the most popular hikes will fill quickly during those times. Arrive early in an attempt to miss the crowds! 

With the tallest trees in the country, massive domes, incredible waterfalls and some of the best hikes in California, this California National Parks road trip is about to be epic.

Day 2: A Full Day in Sequoia National Park 

Another beautiful day spent in Sequoia National Park! We’re going to start our day with a sunrise hike that will blow your mind. I hope you’re ready!  

Get to the Moro Rock Trailhead parking lot about an hour before sunrise. Hike .5 miles and 183 feet to reach an incredible granite dome in that offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Complete a short, steep climb up a staircase carved into the rock face to reach the lookout point for a thrilling and rewarding experience.

Best things to do with the rest of your day in Sequoia:

• After your Moro Rock hike drive through Tunnel Log. Join in on the novelty of driving through a massive fallen Sequoia! We sure did think it was neat.
• After breakfast, hike out to Tokopah Falls. The 3.8-mile trail contains 626 feet of elevation gain, meadows of beautiful wildflowers, and an incredible waterfall. a stunning 1,200-foot waterfall cascading down granite cliffs, offering a picturesque and relatively accessible hiking destination. The hike to the falls follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, making it a scenic and enjoyable experience for visitors.
• Still have gas in the tank? Take a trip up Big Baldy. Technically located just over the park boundary in Kings Canyon, this trail is a bit more challenging at 5 miles round trip and 1,020 feet of elevation gain. Big Baldy, a prominent granite dome in Kings Canyon National Park, offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness after a moderate hike.

To get the full effect of Sequoia, you’re going to be busy and tired! It’s okay to take breaks and nap – we did! After sunrise we went back to our campsite for a hammock nap and breakfast.

Although I understand wanting to do and see it all, it’s important to prioritize how you’re feeling. Make the most of your day without sacrificing your overall wellbeing! There is always tomorrow.

Day 3: Kings Canyon National Park

Day 3 of our California National Parks road trip takes us into our second park, Kings Canyon. If you stayed in Sequoia the night before, we recommend taking a quick hike up 2 mile hike up Buena Vista Peak to an incredible lookout before driving Ten Mile Road into Kings Canyon.

Drive through Hume Lake. Don’t be afraid to pit stop at the general store for a snack of any essentials you may have forgotten before heading towards Highway 180. This winding road is full of incredible views! Don’t be afraid to stop at all the viewpoints! They are worth it…

Best things to do in Kings Canyon:

• Take the scenic route… drive along the scenic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. You don’t want to miss this section of the park! It’s worth the campout on the other end… promise.
• Stroll Through Zumwalt Meadow (1.5 & 157) and take a quick trip up Roaring River Falls (0.3 & 26). These could even be done in the morning on Day 4 if you’re feeling rushed.
• Hike the incredible trail to Mist Falls. At about 8 miles and 875 feet of elevation gain its considered moderately challenging. You’ll start on the sandy Paradise Valley Trail before gaining elevation on the Mist Trail to stunning views of the valley. The hike is mostly moderate until the end, where there is a quick 600 foot elevation gain to the aptly names Mist Falls. Be prepared to get wet!

Enjoy this busy day full of driving and adventures! It might feel overwhelming to do so much in a travel day, but it helps you to really experience every corner of the incredible Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park. 

If you’re just not feeling the jam-packed schedule, I’d say skip Buena Vista Peak and drive straight to Cedar Grove instead. Once you’re there, there are a number of amazing ways to experience the park!

Day 4: SEKI to Yosemite

A quick three hour and thirty minute drive from Cedar Grove to the South Entrance of Yosemite might feel like forever but it’s a good opportunity to rest your legs and stock up on anything you might need in Fresno.

The South Entrance brings you into the park via Route 41. We’re going to make our way through the park, staying someone new each night to make the most of our time here.

Best Things to do in the Mariposa Grove/Wawona and Glacier Point Area: 

• Check out Mariposa Grove, a serene sanctuary of giant sequoia trees, offering visitors a chance to walk among these ancient wonders.
• Head over to Glacier Point Corridor and hike to Taft Point or Sentinel Dome. You can combine the two for a 5-mile hike with 1,100 feet of elevation gain. They are both worth the trip!
• Watch the sunset at Glacier Point! This area of the park get quite busy; I would arrive a bit before sunset to ensure a parking spot.

Known for its incredible overlook of half dome, Glacier Point is a must. Snagging the campground right down the road will make for an easy end to the day and put you in a great position to move on into the valley in the morning.

If you want to make the most of your California National Parks road trip without changing accommodations each night you’re in Yosemite, choose a spot in the valley for all three nights!

Day 5: Yosemite Valley’s Iconic Sights

The stop on your California National Parks road trip you’ve been waiting for. Yosemite Valley, carved by glaciers, is a breathtaking landscape of towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows. It’s home to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers.

We are going to start this morning before the sun. You’ll want to make it through Wawona Tunnel to Tunnel View for sunrise. It’ll be the eats busy the parking lot if all day and you’ll get your first view of the valley with perfect lighting.

Best Things to do in Yosemite Valley:

• Hike to Vernal and/or Nevada Falls! Take the Mist Trail to hike both Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls for a 5.7-mile, 2,129-foot adventure up and out of the valley. You can absolutely just hike to the first waterfall and turn around… prepare to get wet!
• Take the easy 1.2-mile, paved path to Lower Falls or embark on a challenging 6.6-mile, 3,254-foot hike to Upper Falls. Although the view from below is beautiful, hiking to Upper Yosemite Fall rewards adventurers with stunning, close-up views of the cascading waterfall and panoramic vistas of Yosemite Valley.
• Looking for an easier trail? Check out the 5-mile Mirror Lake Loop for a lovely experience.

Yosemite Valley, despite its natural grandeur, functions much like a bustling small town, offering visitor services, lodging, dining, and even a post office, all nestled within its dramatic landscape.

It’s a great place to enjoy nature and feel civilized. Beware of crowds! Traffic jams are inevitable midday – get to your parking spot for a valley hike early and then utilize public transportation for the remainder of your time in the valley!

Day 6: Yosemite’s High Country

On our last full day of our California National Park road trip, we’re going to explore one of the lesser-visited but oh so beautiful areas of Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite’s high country, accessed via Tioga Road, unveils a stunning alpine landscape of shimmering lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and granite domes, offering a serene contrast to the valley’s grandeur. This area of the park isn’t usually accessible until late July, so plan accordingly.

Best things to do in Yosemite High Country

• Hike the 3.8-mile and 389-foot Lembert Dome in Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows for a relatively short but rewarding climb, culminating in panoramic views of the high country’s serene beauty. The smooth granite surface provides a unique hiking experience, with sweeping vistas of meadows and distant peaks
• Hiking to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite’s high country offers a rewarding trek through stunning alpine scenery, culminating in breathtaking views of pristine lakes nestled beneath the iconic Cathedral Peak. The 9.5-mile and 1,600-foot trail, while moderately challenging, provides a classic Yosemite experience, showcasing the beauty of Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding granite landscape.
• An easier alternative or add on to these other day hikes is Pothole Dome. A relatively easy (one mile) climb leads to a rewarding, expansive view of the surrounding high-altitude meadows and granite landscapes.

End your final night of the California National Parks Road Trip with an epic sunset. Set up at Tenaya Lake and make dinner on the beach while the sun sets over the lake to the west. If this isn’t for you, Olmstead Point makes for an incredible sunset view.

Hiking in Yosemite’s high country along the Tioga Road reveals a world of pristine alpine beauty, where trails wind through expansive meadows and past crystal-clear lakes. The air is crisp, the views are vast, and the solitude is profound, offering a true escape into the Sierra Nevada wilderness.

Day 7: To the Airport

Waking up at the end of your trip for a travel day is always bittersweet. I’m always excited to get home to share about my journey but also so sad to be leaving the adventure travel lifestyle behind. Here are a few stops to consider if you have a later flight!

• Five Canyons Park encompasses over 300 acres of open space, providing several miles of hiking trails. These trails offer scenic views of the East Bay, with canyons, ridge lines, and seasonal ponds. It’s a multi-use area, enjoyed by hikers, bicyclists, equestrians, and dog walkers.
• The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a truly unique and expansive national park site. A wide array of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing are offered in the 80,000 acres of ecologically and historically significant lands surrounding the San Francisco Bay Area.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a truly remarkable place. California’s oldest state park, established in 1902, it’s known for its ancient coast redwood trees, some of which are incredibly large and old.

If you’re heading to San Fransisco International, check out the neighborhoods. San Francisco is a collection of unique neighborhoods. The Haight-Ashbury district, is well known for its history regarding the 1960’s. China town is the oldest in the United states. The Mission district is well known for it’s murals, and great food.

You can also explore Golden Gate Park, a massive urban park offering a variety of attractions. Check out the Japanese Tea Garden, the California Academy of Sciences, and the de Young Museum. You can also rent a bike or go for a stroll through the many gardens and trails.

1 Week California Itinerary: National Park Road Trippin!

This 1 week California road trip allows explorers to dip their toes into three of the state’s incredible National Parks.

Explore three of California’s nine National Parks. This trip will show you the giant sequoias, deep canyons, towering granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, providing an unforgettable nature experience.

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 Yosemite National Park welcomes over 4 million visitors each year, with SEKI adding an additional 1.2 million.

Don’t let those numbers intimidate you. Plan a successful California road trip by booking your accommodations and planning your trip early! Do your research for the time of year you are visiting to know what routes you’ll need to travel and what gear you’ll need to bring. You will have an incredible time in this state if you plan your 1 week California National Parks Road Trip properly!

Hitting the Road in California: National Parks Adventuring

California, with its majestic mountains, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes, is a prime destination for a road trip adventure. Buckle up and get ready to shift gears with these answers to your most burning road trip questions:

1. Best time to road trip California’s National Parks?

It depends on the parks! For SEKI and Yosemite, Summer (Late June-August) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery. Summer (mostly July-August) boasts sunshine and wildflowers, but expect crowds and potentially higher prices.

Snow doesn’t melt in high country until later in the summer, so planning your trip in late July and August is best!

2. How many national parks can I hit in one trip?

California boasts nine different National Parks, all within a few hours driving distance. We know we have an overly ambitious route here, but this one week California Itinerary allows you to truly experience three major California Parks! If you have more time, you might be able to add parks to your list.

If you need to cut your trip short or want to add places to your itinerary, check out our 24-hours in Yosemite Post to help you shorten your time in Yosemite to add on elsewhere!

3. Do I need special gear for a California road trip?

Not necessarily, but packing for diverse weather is key.  Even in summer, evenings can get chilly in the mountains. Consider sunglasses, sunscreen, multiple layers of clothing, and comfortable hiking shoes with grippy soles.

If you plan on camping, be sure to bring your camping gear or rent a camper van when you arrive for a home on wheels for your road trip. 

4. Do I need reservations to enter the parks?

Yes, a reservation is needed for Yosemite during peak season. A timed entry permit may be required for Sequoia and Kings Canyon in the future. Check the National Park Service websites for each park for current reservation requirements.

5. Can I bring my pet on this road trip?

I wouldn’t recommend bringing your fluffy friends on this California National Parks road trip. Pets are allowed in limited areas of the parks, and must be on a leash. Check each parks website for specific pet restrictions.

6. Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of?

Be aware of wildlife and practice safe wildlife viewing, Be mindful of elevation changes while hiking. A hike is so much more than mileage! Additionally, check for fire restrictions as you enter the parks – this can limit where you might be able to go as well as overall visibility.

7. Where can I find the best views in California?

Luckily, California is full of incredible views. From the Pacific Ocean to the Sierra Nevada, California always has so much to offer outdoor enthusiasts.

8. Is wildlife a common sight on California roads?

Yes, keep your eyes peeled for deer and bear on California roads. Please drive cautiously throughout the parks boundaries. Remember, these are wild animals – give them plenty of space and avoid approaching them.

9. Can I find dispersed camping (free camping outside designated campgrounds) near Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite?

While dispersed camping opportunities exist around the periphery of these national parks, they are not permitted within the park boundaries themselves. National Park Service regulations prioritize protecting these sensitive ecosystems, and designated campgrounds are the norm.

However, you can explore National Forest lands adjacent to the parks for dispersed camping options. For example, areas within the Sierra National Forest (near SEKI and Yosemite) and the Inyo National Forest (near Yosemite’s eastern side) may allow dispersed camping, but always check local regulations and fire restrictions before setting up camp. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.

10. What Airport Should I Fly Into for this California National Parks Road Trip?

Ideally? I would fly into one airport and out via the other. The southernmost SEKI entrance is closer to Los Angeles while Yosemite is closers to San Francisco…

• LAX & SFO: Fly into LAX (3 hours and 15 minutes from Sequoia) and out of SFO (3 hours from Yosemite National Park)
• LAX: Fly into Los Angeles International (3:15 from Sequoia) and out of Los Angeles International (4:30 from Yosemite)
• SFO: Fly into San Francisco (which is 4 hours from Sequoia) & out of San Francisco (3 hours from Yosemite)

You can explore California in so many different ways! Fly or drive into any of these areas and begin your 1 week California National Parks Road Trip in a space that works best for you.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, a California national parks road trip is an adventure within reach. With careful planning and a spirit of exploration, you can witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

Don’t just dream about it – start planning your own unforgettable journey through these magnificent parks today, and discover the magic for yourself.