5 days tour

California Parks Highlights Tour: Los Angeles To San Francis

$ 2,515 .00 USD

Total price per person

Reserve with $2,515.00

California Parks Highlights Tour: Los Angeles To San Francis

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Accommodation

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Itinerary of your trip California Parks Highlights Tour: Los Angeles To San Francis

  • Day 1 Sequoia National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Sequoia National Park

      Our journey begins with an early morning rendezvous in Los Angeles, where weโ€™ll embark on a scenic drive through Californiaโ€™s Central Valley, a region famed for its agricultural bounty. As we travel, the urban landscape gradually gives way to vast expanses of fertile fields, dotted with orchards and vineyards that showcase Californiaโ€™s rich farming heritage. Along the route, weโ€™ll pass through charming small towns, each with its unique character, offering a glimpse into the heart of the stateโ€™s rural life.


      Our first stop is Sequoia National Park, where weโ€™ll visit the Foothills Visitor Center. Here, youโ€™ll gain insights into the parkโ€™s rich history, from its early preservation efforts to the unique ecosystems that thrive in this diverse landscape. The Visitor Center provides an excellent introduction to what lies ahead, setting the stage for the remarkable sights weโ€™ll encounter throughout the day.


      Next, we venture to one of the parkโ€™s most iconic landmarksโ€”the General Sherman Tree. This colossal sequoia, the largest tree in the world by volume, stands as a testament to the ancient, enduring nature of these forests. Weโ€™ll take a loop hike around the tree, allowing you to fully appreciate its grandeur and the surrounding grove of giant sequoias. The peacefulness and majesty of this grove offer a profound connection to nature and a moment to reflect on the wonders of the natural world.


      In the afternoon, weโ€™ll tackle the hike to Moro Rock, a granite dome that offers one of the most breathtaking views in the park. The ascent to the top, via a series of steep stairs carved into the rock, rewards you with panoramic vistas of the Great Western Divide and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The sweeping views from Moro Rock are truly awe-inspiring, providing a sense of the vast wilderness that stretches out before you.


      After a day filled with exploration and natural wonders, weโ€™ll make our way back to Visalia, where comfortable accommodations await. In the evening, weโ€™ll gather for a Welcome Dinner, a chance to unwind, share our first impressions, and look forward to the adventures that lie ahead. This dinner not only marks the end of a remarkable first day but also sets the tone for the camaraderie and shared experiences that will define our journey.

  • Day 2 Kings Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Kings Canyon National Park

      On Day 2 of our journey, weโ€™ll explore the captivating landscapes of Kings Canyon National Park, starting with a visit to Big Stump Grove, where weโ€™ll walk among the remnants of ancient sequoias, offering a glimpse into the parkโ€™s rich history and the impact of early logging. Next, weโ€™ll visit the iconic General Grant Tree, also known as the โ€œNationโ€™s Christmas Tree,โ€ one of the largest living trees on Earth. An optional stop at the nearby Visitor Center is available for those interested in learning more about the parkโ€™s ecology and history.


      Our adventure continues with an included one-hour guided tour of Boyden Cavern, a hidden gem within the park. As we venture underground, youโ€™ll be mesmerized by the stunning limestone formations, including intricate stalactites and stalagmites, set in a cool and mysterious subterranean environment.


      We then head to the Cedar Grove area, renowned for its scenic beauty, where youโ€™ll have the option to join a guided hike. Our expert guide will lead you through some of the most picturesque trails, sharing insights into the diverse flora, fauna, and geological features that make this area so special. Alternatively, you can enjoy some free time to explore Cedar Grove at your own pace, whether you prefer a peaceful walk along the Kings River, a more challenging hike, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views. This part of the park offers something for everyone, whether youโ€™re seeking adventure or tranquility.

  • Day 3 Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Yosemite National Park

      Today, we journey north to Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and diverse ecosystems. Our drive will take us through the scenic foothills of the Sierra Nevada, where rolling hills covered in oak woodlands give way to towering pine forests, offering picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to stop and appreciate the landscape.


      Our day begins with a stop to pick up lunch, ensuring weโ€™re well-prepared for a full day of exploration. Once inside Yosemite National Park, weโ€™ll head to Glacier Point, where weโ€™ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views the park has to offer. From this vantage point, you can see nearly the entire Yosemite Valley, including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra. Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, cascades down in three tiers, plunging a total of 2,425 feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall; creating a mesmerizing sight and a thunderous roar that echoes throughout the valley.


      For those interested, there will be an option to join a guided hike to Sentinel Dome, which provides a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding landscape. Depending on the timing and group preference, we may also visit Tunnel View today, where you can witness the iconic landscape of Yosemite, or save this stop for tomorrow morning.


      After a day of incredible scenery, weโ€™ll head to our accommodations in Oakhurst, where you can unwind and reflect on the dayโ€™s experiences. (Please note: Glacier Point is not open early in the season, so this stop is subject to seasonal access.)

  • Day 4 Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Yosemite National Park

      This day is dedicated to free time and exploring Yosemite Valley at your own pace. One of the must-do hikes in Yosemite is the self-guided Mist Trail, renowned for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain.


      The Mist Trail begins at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley and follows the Merced River. The first segment of the trail is a paved path that leads to the Vernal Fall Footbridge, offering a stunning view of the 317-foot Vernal Fall. The round-trip hike to the Vernal Fall Footbridge is about 1.6 miles. From here, the trail becomes steeper and rockier as it ascends alongside the waterfall. As you climb, youโ€™ll feel the refreshing mist from the waterfall, which can be a welcome relief on a hot day. This section of the trail is where it gets its name, as the mist from Vernal Fall creates a cool, misty atmosphere that is both invigorating and beautiful.


      Continuing past Vernal Fall, the trail becomes even more challenging as it ascends a series of granite steps carved into the rock. This strenuous climb leads to the top of Vernal Fall, where you can take a break and enjoy the spectacular views of the valley below. The round-trip hike to the top of Vernal Fall is about 2.4 miles. From here, the trail continues to Nevada Fall, another 594-foot waterfall that is equally impressive. The round-trip hike to Nevada Fall is about 7 miles. The climb to Nevada Fall is steep and rocky, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.


      For those seeking a more relaxed day, you can visit the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center to learn about the parkโ€™s history, geology, and ecology. Nearby, the Ansel Adams Gallery offers a collection of stunning black-and-white photographs capturing the essence of Yosemiteโ€™s landscapes. The nearby Yosemite Museum provides insights into the cultural history of the region, including the stories of the Native American tribes who have lived in the area for thousands of years.


      Other activities in Yosemite Valley include renting bicycles to explore the valleyโ€™s flat and scenic bike paths, taking a leisurely stroll through Cookโ€™s Meadow to enjoy views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome, or simply relaxing by the Merced River with a picnic.


      In the evening, we return to our lodgings, reflecting on the dayโ€™s wonders and sharing our experiences with fellow travelers.

  • Day 5 San Francisco
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      San Francisco

      On our final leg, we embark on a scenic drive from Yosemite to San Francisco. As we descend from the Sierra Nevada mountains, weโ€™ll pass through the rolling foothills and vast agricultural fields of the Central Valley. This part of the drive offers a glimpse into Californiaโ€™s agricultural heartland, known for its orchards, vineyards, and crop fields. The Central Valley is one of the worldโ€™s most productive agricultural regions, and youโ€™ll see a variety of crops, including almonds, grapes, and citrus fruits, along the way.


      As we continue west, the landscape gradually changes from rural farmland to the bustling urban environment of the San Francisco Bay Area. Upon arrival in San Francisco, weโ€™ll conclude our journey with a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.


      Whether itโ€™s the towering sequoias of Sequoia National Park, the dramatic cliffs of Kings Canyon, or the majestic waterfalls of Yosemite, each moment of this tour will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Join us for this comprehensive experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and rich history of three of Californiaโ€™s most treasured national parks. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring scenery, making it an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if youโ€™re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 1 / Max: 99

Experience allowed to all ages.