Trip Information
Number of Nights: 12 nights
Seasons: Late May – Early October
Start / End: San Francisco
Average Price: $7,300
Detailed Itinerary
Start: 1 night San Francisco, CA
Start your trip by flying into San Francisco, where you’ll have time to explore this iconic city. Once you arrive, settle into your booked hotel, conveniently located to help you make the most of your visit. San Francisco offers a wealth of attractions, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the historic Alcatraz Island, which you can reach via a scenic ferry ride. Wander through Fisherman’s Wharf to enjoy fresh seafood and street performances, or explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury for unique shops and local culture. Stroll through Golden Gate Park, home to beautiful gardens and the California Academy of Sciences.
San Francisco to Coloma: 135 miles
1 night Coloma, CA
After collecting your RV, head to Coloma, the historic site where gold was discovered during California’s famous Gold Rush. Here, you can swim in the American River, get accustomed to your RV, and explore the charming gold rush town. For the adventurous, we highly recommend a white-water rafting trip on the American River. With the guidance of an expert, you’ll navigate thrilling rapids and take in breathtaking scenery, making for an exhilarating start to your journey.
Coloma to Lake Tahoe: 75 miles
3 nights Lake Tahoe
Heading up into the Sierras, you’ll spend the next three nights in the Lake Tahoe area, renowned for its stunning lake and surrounding mountain scenery. Lake Tahoe offers a wealth of outdoor activities in the warmer months. Hike trails like Eagle Lake or Mount Tallac for panoramic views, or enjoy water activities on the lake, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Scenic drives around the lake provide breathtaking vistas, and picnicking by the shore is a relaxing way to soak in the natural beauty. Explore the charming towns of South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City for dining, shopping, and local events.
Lake Tahoe to Mammoth: 190 miles
3 nights Yosemite National Park
From Lake Tahoe, travel down the Eastern Sierras, with a chance to visit a historic ghost town and marvel at the unique Mono Lake. Upon arriving in Yosemite National Park, you’ll have three nights to explore this iconic destination. Highlights include the breathtaking views from Yosemite Valley, where you can see landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Explore the stunning Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, or hike to Glacier Point for panoramic vistas of the park. Don’t miss the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, where you can stand among some of the world’s oldest and largest trees.
Yosemite to Kings Canyon: 150 miles
1 night Kings Canyon National Park
Continue your Sierra road trip by heading south from Yosemite to Kings Canyon National Park. This stunning park, known for its dramatic granite cliffs and deep canyons, offers a range of spectacular natural features. Explore the impressive Kings Canyon, carved by glaciers, where you can marvel at the towering granite walls and lush forests. The scenic drive along the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway provides breathtaking views of the canyon and the surrounding landscapes. Enjoy hiking trails such as the Zumwalt Meadow Trail or the Mist Falls Trail for closer encounters with the park’s rugged beauty and serene wilderness.
Kings Canyon to Sequoia: 30 miles
2 nights Sequoia National Park
Bordering Kings Canyon, Sequoia National Park is your next destination, where you’ll spend two nights immersing yourself in its majestic landscapes. One of the park’s main attractions is the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume in the world, located in the Giant Forest. Take a stroll along the Congress Trail to see other impressive giant sequoias, such as the President Tree and the Sentinel Tree. For stunning vistas, hike to Moro Rock, a granite dome offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Explore the Crystal Cave, a beautiful marble cave with guided tours that reveal its intricate formations.
Sequoia to Bay Area: 260 miles
1 night Bay Area
On your last full day, travel from Sequoia National Park back through the Central Valley and head to the Bay Area. As you make your way through the valley, you’ll pass through a mix of agricultural landscapes and charming towns. Enjoy the scenic drive as you transition from the rugged beauty of the Sierras to the vibrant culture of the Bay Area. Upon arriving, you can unwind at a well-equipped campground, enjoying a peaceful evening surrounded by the region’s unique landscapes. Enjoy your last night before heading to return your RV the following morning and flying home.
TOTAL TRIP MILEAGE: 840 miles