California is simply one of the greatest outdoor destinations on the planet — and we’ve barely scratched the surface. From the towering sequoias of Kings Canyon to the granite walls of Yosemite, the dramatic coastline of the Channel Islands, and the volcanic spires of Pinnacles, this state is home to some of the most diverse and spectacular landscapes in the entire national park system. Here’s everything we discovered across California so far, so you can plan your own unforgettable adventure.
Planning an itinerary for Yosemite National Park? You’ve landed in the right place. Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks in the world, and one of the most visited. Spending 4 full days here means you can go well beyond the Valley floor crowds and experience the park the way it’s meant to…
One of the top attractions in the San Francisco area is Alcatraz, and maybe you are wondering, is Alcatraz worth visiting? Of course, it is! Learn about how to plan your trip to Alcatraz and what to do when you arrive on the island. Alcatraz has so much interesting history and is a very unique…
Want to know the best Golden Gate Bridge Picture spot? What about the best hike nearby? We’ve got you covered! Learn more about our trip to Marin Headlands within the Golden Gate Bridge Natural Recreation Area, where you’ll discover amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Additionally, you can complete plenty of short hikes to…
We’ve got you covered for an ultimate Muir Woods Day Trip. If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, this is one location that you can’t miss. You and everyone else, too! Get the details below about how to get into Muir Woods and the best hike in the park. Our Muir Woods day…
Not every winery near Sonoma can offer a mountaintop tasting where you’ll enjoy delicious wines overlooking the vines. Like what I did there? Haha! Spend some time at Kunde Family Winery during your day trip to Sonoma and do just that! After an epic, but exhausting 4 days in Yosemite National Park, take some time…
If you’re looking for a great place in Yosemite National Park off the beaten path, a visit to Hetch Hetchy is just what you need. This day includes a breathtaking morning hike around the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir to Wapama Falls. This short and easy hike is a great way to end your visit to Yosemite…
Looking for a guide on the Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park? We’re glad you’re here! A visit to Yosemite National Park is not complete without a visit to Vernal and Nevada Falls. On Day 3 of your epic trip to Yosemite National Park, complete one of the most popular trails in the park and visit…
Looking for all the details on the Cathedral Lakes Hike, Yosemite National Park? Spend a day visiting Tuolumne Meadows and hiking to Upper Cathedral Lake and Lower Cathedral Lake. Yosemite National Park has it all! Epic views, amazing hikes, great wildlife, and more. Learn more about the amazing hike to Upper and Lower Cathedral Lakes….
Looking for everything you need to know about the hike to Upper Yosemite Falls? You’ve found the right guide. This is one of the oldest trails in Yosemite National Park, built sometime around 1873-1877. It climbs 3,300 feet over 8 miles round trip to the brink of North America’s tallest waterfall and beyond to Yosemite…
If you’re looking for some great hiking in Kings Canyon National Park, you’ve made it to the right place! By spending 1 or 2 days at this magnificent national park, you can hike and see some of the best spots. As part of our epic 16-day road trip in Central California, we recommend exploring Kings…
If Highway 180 is open into Kings Canyon, you must go! Our Kings Canyon National Park itinerary will take you on an adventure to Mist Falls, Zumwalt Meadows, Roaring River Falls, and Grizzly Falls. Plan an unforgettable trip of your own to these three must-see waterfalls at Kings Canyon National Park. As part of our…
If you are looking for a great hike in Sequoia National Park, you have reached the right place! Hit the trails and visit the giants up close and personal. First, see if you can spot a black bear in the wildflower-filled meadows along the Big Trees Trail. Then, head to the General Sherman Tree and…
Walk amongst the giants and use our Sequoia National Park itinerary to plan an unforgettable trip of your own. Having spent 2 days at this park, these are the top sights to see during your visit. Spend your first day hiking the Moro Rock Trail through the forest and climbing Moro Rock. Then, visit Tunnel…
Channel Islands National Park is located off the coast of Ventura, CA. Take an amazing Channel Islands day trip to Anacapa Island as part of your road trip through Central California. Okay, okay, Ventura is a bit more south than central, but adhering to our 16-day California itinerary, we made it our mission to visit,…
I don’t know if you have heard or read this online before, but we have seen folks say that Pinnacles National Park isn’t worth visiting. What?! We think otherwise! Yes, maybe it’s not as grand as Yosemite National Park, but it still deserves to be on the list. The best hike in Pinnacles National Park…