This stretch takes us from the dazzling lights of Las Vegas through some of California’s most iconic national parks, all the way to the vibrant city of San Francisco. Along the way, we’ll marvel at the colossal sequoias of Sequoia National Park, the granite giants of Yosemite, and finish with the Golden Gate Bridge rising above the Pacific.

Leg 10 of 11: Overview

The journey from Las Vegas to San Francisco covers about 800 miles and showcases some of California’s most spectacular landscapes. With stops at world-famous national parks and natural wonders, plan on 5–7 days to truly soak it all in – depending on how long you linger at each stop.

Leaving Las Vegas

After days of neon lights and shows in the desert heat of Nevada, we trade the glitz of Vegas for something far more raw: the endless expanse of California’s Death Valley.

Stop 1: Death Valley National Park

A land of extremes, Death Valley is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.
Badwater Basin: A surreal salt flat 85 meters below sea level.
Zabriskie Point: Golden and red rock formations, best at sunrise.
Dante’s View: A sweeping overlook across the valley floor.

Stop 2: Sequoia National Park

Home to the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia feels almost prehistoric with its towering giants.
General Sherman Tree: The world’s biggest tree by volume.
Moro Rock: A short climb with panoramic views over the Sierra Nevada.
Giant Forest: A breathtaking walk among thousand-year-old sequoias.

Reading tip: Sequoia National Park, California: Giant Sequoias, Hikes & Travel Tips

Stop 3: Kings Canyon National Park

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Kings Canyon is a quieter gem worth the detour.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway: A winding drive through dramatic canyons.
Zumwalt Meadow: A peaceful riverside trail.
Grizzly Falls: A waterfall that’s just steps from the road.

Road Trip Tips

• Mind the seasons: Death Valley is blistering in summer, while Yosemite’s mountain passes may be closed in winter.
• Book ahead: Lodging in Yosemite and Lake Tahoe fills up quickly in peak season.
• Enjoy the variety: From deserts and redwoods to alpine lakes and ocean breezes, this route is California at its best.

Our conclusion: This leg of the journey captures California in all its glory – from the heat of the desert to the shade of thousand-year-old forests, from sheer granite cliffs to the cool Pacific breeze. Next up: the final stretch along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway to Los Angeles.

Are you team desert, giant trees, or mountain peaks?
Let us know in the comments & tag your favorite road trip buddies!

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