Planning a trip from New Jersey to California in just one week was a thrilling experience for our family. It started as an innocent Instagram scroll, and before we knew it, we were booking flights and creating a bucket-list-worthy itinerary. Here’s a breakdown of our journey, some tips, and a few lessons learned along the way.
How It All Began
We weren’t planning a trip, just casually browsing vacation ideas, when we stumbled upon mesmerizing reels of California’s national parks. It sparked a desire to explore the West Coast. A quick Google Flights search revealed shockingly affordable tickets to Los Angeles, so we immediately took the plunge.
When destiny calls, everything falls into place!
The Journey: Highlights of Our Adventure
Sequoia National Park
- Tunnel Rock: A perfect spot for photos under a massive rock arch. Fun for kids and a great entry point into the park.
- Giant Forest Museum: Learn about the incredible sequoias, their history, and their significance.
- General Sherman Tree: The largest tree on Earth by volume—a true natural wonder.
- Moro Rock: A granite dome with panoramic views. Sunset here is magical. Approximately 0.5 miles round trip involves climbing a 400-step staircase carved into the rock. Accessible only by park Suttle. Cars are allowed on Moro Rock after 7 PM. Rushing back to catch the sunset there was worth every second.
- Crescent Meadow Loop Trail: [Approximately 1.6 miles (round trip)] is a serene and picturesque hike that takes you through lush meadows surrounded by towering sequoias. Often referred to as the “Gem of the Sierra,” this easy, family-friendly trail offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while marveling at the beauty of some of the park’s most iconic landscapes. Accessible only by park Suttle.
- Tunnel Log: A quirky stop to take pictures with your car under a fallen sequoia. Accessible only by park Suttle.
Kings Canyon National Park
- Hume Lake: A serene mountain lake, ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
- General Grant Tree: The “Nation’s Christmas Tree” and a must-visit giant sequoia.
- Junction View: A scenic overlook offering dramatic views of the rugged canyon below.
Yosemite National Park
- Tunnel View: A postcard-perfect view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. It is one of Yosemite National Park’s most famous and photographed vistas. On our way back to hotel we took pit stop at Tunnel View again and it was an entirely different kind of magic. Far from city lights, Tunnel View offers a clear, dark sky perfect for stargazing. On a moonless night, the Milky Way arcs across the sky, creating a celestial masterpiece.
- Bridalveil Fall: Although the falls were dry during our visit, the surrounding trails were captivating.
- Glacier Point: A panoramic vista that offers one of the best views in Yosemite.
- Olmsted Point & Tenaya Lake: Offbeat stops with fewer crowds, showcasing granite landscapes and tranquil waters.
- Valley View & El Capitan Meadow: The grandeur of Yosemite Valley’s towering cliffs and meadows is unbeatable.
San Francisco
- Trojan Point: A hidden gem to witness the phenomenon of cloud inversion. On misty mornings, Trojan Point often offers a unique phenomenon where the fog blankets the valleys below, leaving you feeling like you’re standing above the clouds. It’s a magical sight that photographers and nature enthusiasts will cherish.
- Golden Gate View Point: Iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. We got lucky with clear skies!
- Palace of Fine Arts: Stunning architecture perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Pier 39: A lively spot to see seals lounging, enjoy street performances, and grab a quick bite.
- Crissy Field Marsh: A windy yet serene beach area with windsurfers dotting the horizon.
Big Sur & Carmel
- 17-Mile Drive: A scenic drive with highlights like Point Joe, Lone Cypress, and China Rock. A small entry fee is required, but it’s worth it. 17-Mile Drive is one of California’s most iconic coastal routes, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula. This privately managed scenic road takes you past dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, famous landmarks, and exclusive golf courses, offering an unforgettable experience.
- Carmel-By-The-Sea: A charming town with boutique shops and art galleries.
- Bixby Creek Bridge: One of California’s most photographed landmarks, offering dramatic coastal views.
- Oceano Sand Dunes: A unique experience of playing on sand dunes while enjoying cool ocean breezes.
- Seals and Sunset: The calm beach is a great place to spot seals and watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Los Angeles
- Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign: While iconic, check for events to avoid traffic delays like we encountered!
Where We Stayed: Accommodation Guide
- Los Angeles: Quality Inn, near LAX Airport
- Convenient for early or late flights.
- Offers easy access to the airport with comfortable and affordable amenities.
- Sequoia National Park:River Inn, Three Rivers
- Conveniently close to the park, making early starts easier.
- Rustic charm with proximity to the Kaweah River.
- Kings Canyon Area:Quality Inn, Fresno
- A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and easy access to Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.
- Yosemite National Park:Yosemite Cedar Lodge, El Portal
- Private riverfront access, perfect for unwinding after long hikes.
- San Francisco: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham, Livermore
- Located outside the city, offering easy parking and stunning golden hill views.
- San Francisco (City Stay): Hotel SoMa House, San Francisco
- Modern and stylish, located within the city for easy access to attractions.
- Ideal for those who want to stay near San Francisco landmarks, but consider parking costs and traffic.
- Big Sur Area:Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Marina
- Close to the coast with comfortable amenities.
- Morro Bay:Holland Inn and Suites, Morro Bay
- A cozy stay with beach access and proximity to charming local cafes.
Final Thoughts
California proved to be a magical destination for a family road trip. The mix of towering forests, breathtaking cliffs, sandy beaches, and iconic cityscapes left us in awe. Our whirlwind adventure showed us that sometimes, the best trips are the ones that happen on a whim. So, pack your bags and let destiny take over!
Frequently Asked Questions
How did you plan the trip in just one week?
We started by finding cheap flights through Google Flights and quickly mapped out our itinerary around must-visit destinations like Sequoia, Yosemite, and San Francisco. Accommodation bookings and car rentals were done simultaneously to save time. It’s all about being decisive and using planning tools effectively!
What’s the best time to visit these parks and attractions?
Sequoia and Yosemite: Late spring or early summer is ideal for lush greenery and flowing waterfalls. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a serene, snow-covered landscape. Big Sur and San Francisco: Summer and early fall have pleasant weather, but expect some fog in San Francisco, especially around the Golden Gate Bridge.
How did you manage food on the road?
We stocked up on snacks, drinks, and quick meals from Costco near LA airport. Along the way, we tried local cafes and restaurants for variety, but having a stash of snacks kept us fueled during long drives.
Should I go to Yosemite or Sequoia first?
I always recommend to people that are going to both Yosemite and Sequoia to go to Sequoia first, as Yosemite is a substantially better experience overall.
Is the Big Sur drive open year-round?
Not always. Big Sur is prone to landslides, especially during the rainy season (winter and early spring). Check road conditions on Highway 1 before planning your trip to avoid closures or detours.
Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite?
Yes, especially during peak seasons (spring to fall). Yosemite has a reservation system for entry during busy months. Always check the National Park Service website for current rules and make reservations in advance.
What are the must-see spots in Yosemite?
Tunnel View (for panoramic views), Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point are top highlights. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Cathedral Beach and Swinging Bridge for serene views of the Merced River.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.