California Parks Highlights Tour: San Francisco to Los Angeles (5 Days)

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  • DepartureMay - August
  • Pick Up Location(s)7:30am - Hilton San Francisco Union Square (333 O’Farrell St) Mason Street Side
  • Duration 5 days/4 nights
  • TransportationTransportation in a modern 13 passenger tour bus/SUV or minivan

Explore the breathtaking wonders of Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks on our immersive five-day tour designed to capture the essence of these natural marvels.

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains, these parks are renowned for their towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine alpine meadows. Our expertly crafted itinerary blends iconic landmarks with hidden gems, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Our journey begins with an early rendezvous in San Francisco on the first day, followed by a scenic drive through diverse landscapes to Yosemite National Park. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Lower Yosemite Falls and Tunnel View, where we’ll be treated to stunning views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. Later, we’ll head to our accommodations in Oakhurst, CA, and gather for a welcome dinner to set the tone for the adventures ahead.

The following day offers free time to explore Yosemite Valley at your own pace. You can visit various viewpoints, engage in valley activities, or embark on a self-guided hike like the Mist Trail, renowned for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. Highlights include close encounters with Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, two of Yosemite’s most impressive waterfalls.

Next, we delve into the majestic Sequoia National Park, home to some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth. We’ll visit the General Grant Tree and the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume on the planet. The day includes a hike to the top of Moro Rock, where panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the Sierra Nevada mountains reward our efforts.

Continuing our adventure, we explore Kings Canyon National Park, starting with the Big Stump Loop to learn about the history of logging and see impressive sequoia stumps. We then visit Boyden Cavern, a stunning underground marvel. The afternoon is dedicated to the Kings Canyon Cedar Grove area, where trails like the Zumwalt Meadow Loop and Roaring River Falls offer picturesque meadows, rivers, and dramatic cliffs.

On our final leg, we embark on a scenic drive from Kings Canyon to Los Angeles. We descend from the Sierra Nevada mountains into the rolling foothills and vast agricultural fields of the Central Valley. Depending on time, we may visit iconic Hollywood viewpoints such as Lake Hollywood Park and Griffith Observatory for spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline. As our tour concludes, we reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences shared over the past five days, leaving with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and rich history of three of California’s most treasured national parks. Join us for an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

Weather permitting. Some activities are not accessible in extreme weather or due to road closures. Every attempt will be made to find comparable activities if these options are not available during your trip. 

Highlights

  • Explore iconic Yosemite Valley
  • Visit the majestic Giant Sequoia Trees
  • Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
  • Tour of Boyden Caverns
  • Visit the Giant Forest, home to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume
  • Explore the Kings Canyon Cedar Grove area
  • Views from various Hollywood viewpoints
  • Drive along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway and Big Stump Loop
  • Panoramic views from the top of Morrow Rock
  • Enjoy comfortable lodging accommodation

Price Includes

  • Complimentary pick up from the Hilton San Francisco Union Square (333 O’Farrell St) Mason Street Side
  • Narrated guided tour by a full-time professional, knowledgeable guide
  • Transportation in a modern 13 passenger tour bus/SUV or minivan
  • Park entrance fees to Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
  • Boyden Caverns Tour
  • Comfortable twin-share accommodation in a 3-star hotel
  • Welcome and farewell dinner

Price Excludes

  • MealsStops will be made to purchase food
  • Optional activity entrance fees
  • Guide Gratuity(customary 15-20% of tour cost as per TripAdvisor tipping guide)

Why We Love This Tour

“We love this tour because it takes us on an amazing five-day journey through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. The adventure starts in San Francisco and winds through beautiful landscapes to Yosemite, where we’re blown away by stunning waterfalls and towering granite cliffs. We get the freedom to explore Yosemite Valley on our own or tackle the Mist Trail for some epic views.

In Sequoia National Park, we get up close with the gigantic sequoias, including the awe-inspiring General Sherman Tree, and take in the breathtaking vistas from Moro Rock. Kings Canyon National Park is a hidden gem, with its rich history and the peaceful Cedar Grove area, perfect for a quiet moment in nature.

The drive to Los Angeles is a great way to wrap up the trip, especially with the chance to see some classic Hollywood sights. This tour is a fantastic mix of famous spots and hidden treasures, giving us a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. It leaves us with wonderful memories and a newfound love for these incredible national parks.”

Jess M.

California Parks Highlights Tour: San Francisco to Los Angeles (5 Days) Itinerary

**Sample Itineraries: Please note that due to rapidly-changing conditions beyond our control (weather, crowds, traffic) and the small size of our vehicles/groups, we allow our guides the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to best suit the needs of the group. While we guarantee that we’ll do our best to provide you with all of the highlights within this Yosemite Highlights Tour itinerary (conditions permitting), we do not guarantee them in this specific order. **

Day 1 - Yosemite National Park

Today begins with an early rendezvous in San Francisco, where excitement mounts among our group for our journey into Yosemite National Park.

The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park offers a captivating journey through diverse landscapes and scenic vistas. Starting from the bustling urbanity of San Francisco, we venture eastward, gradually leaving behind the cityscape for rolling hills and expansive valleys.

As we traverse across California’s Central Valley, the scenery transforms into vast agricultural fields stretching towards the horizon. The road cuts through charming rural towns, each offering glimpses of local life and agriculture that characterizes this fertile region.

Approaching the Sierra Nevada foothills, the landscape begins to rise, marking the gateway to Yosemite. Curving roads wind through pine forests and oak woodlands, with occasional glimpses of the rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada range in the distance.

As we near the park, the anticipation builds. The road ascends, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, gradually revealing the granite cliffs and iconic landmarks that make Yosemite a natural wonder. Finally, we arrive at the park’s entrance, where the beauty of Yosemite Valley beckons us with its towering waterfalls, ancient sequoias, and breathtaking vistas, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure amidst nature’s grandeur.

Upon arrival at the park, we’ll visit Lower Yosemite Falls, where the sheer power and mist of the waterfall captivate us. Afterward, we’ll visit Tunnel View, offering an iconic panorama of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome standing majestically before us.

Later in the afternoon, we will head to our accommodations in Oakhurst, CA. Here, we settle into our comfortable accommodations before gathering for a relaxed and hearty welcome dinner, setting the tone for our adventures ahead.

Day 2 - Yosemite National Park

Today invites you to enjoy free time to explore Yosemite Valley on your own. Spend your day visiting the viewpoints and engaging in various activities in the valley, or choose a self-guided hike like the Mist Trail.

The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park is renowned for its stunning views and challenging terrain, making it one of the park’s most iconic hikes. Beginning in Yosemite Valley, the trail follows the Merced River, offering picturesque vistas along the way. The highlight of the trail includes close encounters with Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, two of Yosemite’s most impressive waterfalls.

The hike to Vernal Fall spans approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the trailhead. This segment is notable for its steep granite staircases that climb alongside the rushing waters. During spring and early summer, the waterfall is at its peak flow, creating a misty spray that often forms rainbows in the sunlight. It’s a breathtaking sight, but the mist can make rocks slippery, requiring caution.

Continuing beyond Vernal Fall, the trail extends another 2 miles (3.2 km) to Nevada Fall. This cascade drops 594 feet (181 m) and offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The ascent to Nevada Fall is less steep than the initial climb to Vernal Fall, allowing hikers to catch their breath while still enjoying the beauty of Yosemite’s wilderness. The Mist Trail promises an unforgettable Yosemite experience, combining exhilarating hiking with the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite’s iconic waterfalls.

After our hike, we return to Oakhurst to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 3 - Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is home to some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, the giant sequoias. These colossal trees, some over 3,000 years old, tower above the forest floor, reaching heights of over 300 feet and diameters of more than 25 feet. Walking among these ancient giants, one feels a profound sense of awe and reverence for nature’s grandeur.

Our day begins with a scenic drive to the park, where the grandeur of the giant sequoias awaits. Our first stop is the General Grant Tree, often referred to as the Nation’s Christmas Tree. This colossal tree is the second-largest by volume in the world and offers a striking introduction to the park’s natural wonders. As we walk among these ancient giants, we’ll learn about the unique ecosystems and the incredible longevity of the sequoias.

Next, we visit the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. Standing over 275 feet tall and estimated to be around 2,200 years old, the General Sherman Tree is a testament to the enduring power of nature. A short, accessible trail leads us to this iconic giant, allowing plenty of time for photographs and quiet reflection.

After marveling at these natural wonders, we embark on a hike to the top of Moro Rock, a massive granite dome offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail to the summit involves a steep climb up a series of staircases, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Great Western Divide and the expansive Sierra Nevada mountains. This vantage point provides a unique perspective on the scale and beauty of Sequoia National Park.

As the day draws to a close, we make our way to our accommodations, where we can relax and share our experiences of the day over dinner, preparing for another day of adventure.

Day 4 - Kings Canyon National Park

The heart of Kings Canyon National Park is renowned for its rugged terrain, deep valleys, and towering trees. Our first adventure begins with the Big Stump Loop, a fascinating hike that delves into the history of logging in the area. This trail features impressive sequoia stumps, remnants of the logging era, and provides insights into the park’s conservation efforts. The loop is an easy, 1.5-mile hike that offers a unique glimpse into the past while surrounded by the beauty of the present forest.

Next, we visit Boyden Cavern, a stunning underground wonder located in the steep-walled marble canyon of the Kings River. A guided tour takes us through this fascinating cave, where we’ll marvel at the intricate formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. The cavern is an awe-inspiring display of nature’s artistry, providing a cool and enchanting escape from the summer heat.

In the afternoon, we head to the Kings Canyon Cedar Grove area, a lush region known for its serene meadows, clear rivers, and dramatic cliffs. Here, several short hiking options allow us to explore the area’s natural beauty at our own pace. Trails like the Zumwalt Meadow Loop offer easy access to the picturesque meadow, framed by towering granite walls and the tranquil Kings River. Another highlight is Roaring River Falls, a powerful waterfall accessible via a short, scenic trail. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Mist Falls Trail provides a moderate hike to one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views and a refreshing mist from the falls.

As we explore Cedar Grove, we’ll also encounter the towering cliffs of the canyon, including the majestic Grand Sentinel and North Dome, providing a dramatic backdrop to our hikes. The lush meadows and clear rivers offer perfect spots for a picnic or a moment of quiet reflection amidst nature’s splendor.

After a day filled with exploration and natural beauty, we return to our accommodations to relax and share our experiences over dinner, reflecting on the wonders we’ve encountered.

Day 5 - Los Angeles

Our final day begins with a scenic drive from Kings Canyon National Park to Los Angeles. As we leave the majestic landscapes of Kings Canyon behind, our journey takes us through the diverse terrain of central California.

We start by descending from the high altitudes of the Sierra Nevada mountains, with their towering trees and rugged cliffs, into the rolling foothills covered with oak woodlands and grasslands. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the changing landscape, providing plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Entering the Central Valley, we are greeted by vast agricultural fields that stretch towards the horizon. This fertile region is known as the breadbasket of California, producing a significant portion of the nation’s fruits, vegetables, and nuts. As we pass through charming rural towns, we get a glimpse of local life and the bustling agricultural industry.

Approaching the urban expanse of Los Angeles, we transition from the serene rural landscape to the vibrant energy of the city. Depending on traffic and time, we may visit iconic Hollywood viewpoints such as Lake Hollywood Park and Griffith Observatory. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign and the sprawling Los Angeles skyline, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban exploration.

As our tour concludes, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences we’ve shared over the past five days. We hope you’ve enjoyed this unforgettable journey through some of California’s most stunning national parks. As we say our goodbyes, we leave with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and rich history of three of California’s most treasured national parks. Join us for an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

Book a Private California Parks Highlights Tour: San Francisco to Los Angeles

We understand how important quality time with your friends and family is. We also understand the hesitation some customers may have in sharing a vehicle with people they don’t know. While we love the ease of travel & new friendships that shared tours provide, we have adapted to bring our customers more options when it comes to booking a tour.

This tour is now available to book as a private excursion for up to 13 guests.  You’ll receive the same itinerary and inclusions that our typical tour would provide, plus personal one-on-one attention from your guide and the ability to choose exactly who you’ll bring with you.

Feeling like making some changes or additions to the itinerary? Contact us and we can create a quote for any custom experience you’d like to partake in anywhere in the 50 states.

Reserve your NorCal Highlights Tour: San Francisco to Los Angeles as a private excursion now!

Secure Your Dream Trip with Travel Insurance

At Incredible Adventures, we believe that you should be able to travel stress-free. So we’ve partnered with Arch RoamRight to offer our guests the most comprehensive travel insurance possible. Wherever you are, you’ll be guaranteed financial coverage for any unexpected twists and turns on your travels. We believe no one should have to lose out on investing in a once-in-a-lifetime trip!

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