The Ultimate 3-Week California National Park Road Trip …

A California National Park Road Trip can ideally span 21 days to experience all the sights, but travelers can certainly customize their journey to fit their schedule. The route I’ve laid out, starting in Los Angeles and ending at Channel Islands National Park, covers around 1,800 miles.

This comprehensive itinerary allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and unique attractions of all nine national parks in the state. However, if 21 days feels too long, don’t worry! You can spend fewer days by selecting the spots you want from our guide, focusing on the parks and activities that most excite you.

Here’s everything you need for an epic California National Park road trip in 2025. I’ve put together a detailed 21-day itinerary with all the must-see stops, top destinations, and essential tips to ensure you have the best adventure ever. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

This map highlights all the must-see stops on your road trip. I’ll dive into each destination below and share tips to make your adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Welcome to Los Angeles, the city of angels! LA is the perfect starting point for our epic California National Park road trip. Known for its sunny beaches, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, Los Angeles has something for everyone. Plus, it’s the perfect place to stock up on essentials, rent your car, and get into the road trip spirit.

Here’s what to see and do in LA:

• Santa Monica Pier: A classic LA experience! Walk along the pier, enjoy the amusement park rides, and grab some snacks. The sunset views are spectacular here, making it one of the fun things to do in LA. In summer, expect larger crowds, but the lively atmosphere is part of the charm.
• Venice Beach: Stroll down the Venice Boardwalk to see street performers, quirky shops, and the famous Muscle Beach. It’s a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the local vibe. Spring and fall offer the best weather for enjoying the beach and boardwalk without the intense summer heat.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Check out the stars on the Walk of Fame and see the TCL Chinese Theatre. You might even spot a celebrity! Summer brings more tourists, so visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.
• Griffith Observatory: Head up to Griffith Park for some of the best views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign. The observatory itself is fascinating and has free entry, making it one of the top things to do in LA at night.
• The Getty Center: Explore stunning art collections and beautiful gardens. Plus, the views of LA from here are breathtaking.

• Rodeo Drive: Even if you’re not into shopping, a walk down Rodeo Drive is a must. It’s fun to window shop and see the luxury stores. During the holiday season, the decorations are spectacular, adding an extra layer of charm to your visit.
• Downtown LA: Visit places like The Broad Museum, the historic Olvera Street, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Grab a bite at Grand Central Market, where you’ll find a variety of delicious food stalls, as well as some of the best LA restaurants.
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): One of the largest art museums in the West, with diverse collections and the iconic “Urban Light” installation.
• Runyon Canyon: A popular hiking spot offering great views of the city and a chance to see some local wildlife. It’s a favorite among locals and celebrities alike.
• La Brea Tar Pits and Museum: Explore prehistoric fossils and learn about the ancient creatures that once roamed LA.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: A fun-filled day at this movie-themed amusement park, one of the best things to do with teens in LA. From thrilling rides to studio tours, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget that LA traffic is notorious. Plan your driving times to avoid rush hours (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM). Use navigation apps like Waze to find the quickest routes.  Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services for city exploration to avoid the hassle of parking!

Tip: I recommend renting a car from LAX or a downtown location to start your journey. Be sure to choose a vehicle with good fuel efficiency and space for all your gear. Also, download any national park apps for the parks you’ll visit!

It’s time for our first national park! Just a 2.5-hour drive from LA, Joshua Tree is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a unique environment filled with striking rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. This park is a paradise for rock climbers, stargazers, and nature lovers alike.

• Hidden Valley: This is one of the best spots for a first-time visit. It’s a short, one-mile loop trail that takes you through a stunning rock-enclosed valley. Perfect for an easy hike and some rock scrambling.
• Keys View: For panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and beyond, head to Keys View. This lookout point offers breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset. In the winter, you can even see snow-capped peaks in the distance.
• Barker Dam: A relatively easy hike that’s about 1.1 miles round trip. The trail leads you to a historic water tank built by early cattle ranchers. In the spring, you might see the dam filled with water, attracting a variety of wildlife.
• Skull Rock: An iconic rock formation that looks like a skull, conveniently located right off the main road. It’s a fun and quick stop for some cool photos.
• Cholla Cactus Garden: A must-see, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light makes the cactus spines glow. The garden is filled with cholla cacti, and the short loop trail offers a great way to explore this unique area.
• Ryan Mountain: For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Ryan Mountain trail is a 3-mile round trip with a 1,000-foot elevation gain. The reward? 360-degree views of the park. It’s best hiked in the cooler months of fall, winter, or spring to avoid the intense summer heat.

If you’re camping, the Jumbo Rocks Campground is one of the best spots in the park. Surrounded by massive rock formations, it’s a perfect place for stargazing. Be sure to reserve a spot in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall.

Tip: Before heading into the park, grab breakfast or a snack at the Joshua Tree Coffee Company for some locally roasted coffee and pastries.

After soaking in the unique beauty of Joshua Tree, we’re heading to the otherworldly landscapes of Death Valley National Park. Just a 3.5-hour drive from Joshua Tree, Death Valley is famous for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. This place is full of extremes, but also packed with incredible sights and experiences that are absolutely worth the trip. It is one of the best things to do in North America.

Here’s what you’ll see in Death Valley:

• Badwater Basin: The lowest point in North America, sitting 282 feet below sea level. Walk out onto the vast salt flats for an out-of-this-world experience. Winter and early spring are the best times to visit, as summer temperatures can be dangerously high.
• Dante’s View: For a stunning panoramic view of Death Valley, head up to Dante’s View. It’s a fantastic spot for sunrise or sunset.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: These are the most accessible sand dunes in the park and are great for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates striking shadows. In summer, the sand can get extremely hot, so early morning visits are best.
• Zabriskie Point: Known for its spectacular views of the golden badlands, this is a must-visit, especially at sunrise or sunset.

• Artist’s Drive and Artist’s Palette: A scenic drive that takes you through colorful hills and unique rock formations. The colors are especially vibrant in the late afternoon light.
• Furnace Creek Visitor Center: Start here to get maps, information, and the latest conditions. There’s also a small museum that gives great insights into the park’s history and geology.
• Golden Canyon: A popular hiking trail that takes you through vibrant red rock formations. The hike is best done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Scotty’s Castle: Although currently closed for repairs, you can still take a guided walking tour to learn about this historic landmark. Check the park’s website for the latest updates on tours and access.

If you’re thinking about cruising the park’s dirt roads, make sure your car has off-road tires and bring a spare or two—flats happen a lot on the park’s rough 4×4 roads. You can find gas inside the park at Stovepipe Wells, Panamint Springs, and Furnace Creek, but it’s a good idea to carry extra if you’re heading off the beaten path.

Warning: Summer in Death Valley is only for the brave (or those who plan to stay in their air-conditioned cars). The heat is no joke from May through October, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits and staying there overnight.

Because of this intense heat, the park closes several campgrounds and advises against outdoor activities during the day. If you do visit in summer, stick to the cooler, higher areas or take lots of breaks in the AC.

Next up on our adventure is the breathtaking Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. These parks just a four-hour drive away from Death Valley are known for their massive sequoia trees and stunning mountain scenery. Prepare to be amazed by some of the largest trees on the planet and the dramatic beauty of these neighboring parks.

Sequoia National Park is home to the largest trees on earth, the giant sequoias. Walking among these ancient giants is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The park also features a range of landscapes, from dense forests to high mountain peaks.

• General Sherman Tree: This giant is the largest tree in the world by volume. A short, paved trail takes you to the base of this magnificent tree. To avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
• Giant Forest Museum: Learn all about the sequoias and their ecosystems here. The museum has great exhibits and ranger-led programs. Visiting in the winter? The snowy backdrop makes the trees even more magical.
• Moro Rock: Climb the 400 steps up this granite dome for breathtaking views of the park. It’s a bit of a workout, but the panoramic vistas are worth it. For cooler temps and fewer people, go in the early morning or late afternoon.
• Tunnel Log: Drive through a fallen sequoia! It’s a fun photo op and easily accessible year-round, though check winter road conditions just in case.
• Crystal Cave: Explore this marble cave filled with impressive formations on a guided tour. It’s a cool escape during the hot summer months. Tours can fill up fast, so book in advance.

Where to Stay: Sequoia National Park offers a range of lodging options, including multiple campgrounds, a park-managed lodge, and unique tented camps. The seven campgrounds vary from riverfront to high elevation sites, with different levels of amenities.

For a unique stay, consider the Wuksachi Lodge near the Giant Forest or the off-the-grid Silver City Resort in Mineral King, and for adventurous hikers, Bearpaw High Sierra Camp provides a wilderness tented lodging experience, while beach resorts in California offer a more coastal retreat.

Kings Canyon National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including deep canyons, towering cliffs, and roaring waterfalls. The park offers some of the most scenic drives and hikes in California, with less crowded trails compared to Sequoia, making it one of the unique places to visit in the US.

• General Grant Tree: Known as the Nation’s Christmas Tree, this giant sequoia is a must-see. A short, easy trail leads you to this impressive tree.
• Zumwalt Meadow: Take a leisurely stroll through lush meadows and along the Kings River on this flat loop trail. Spring and summer are ideal times for blooming flowers.
• Roaring River Falls: A short walk from the parking area brings you to this powerful waterfall. It’s especially impressive in spring when the water flow is at its peak.
• Boyden Cavern: Located in Kings River Canyon, this cavern offers guided tours showcasing incredible stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a cool retreat during hot summer days.
• Mist Falls: This popular hike offers stunning views and a powerful waterfall at the end. It’s about 9 miles round trip, so start early to avoid the heat.

The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is an awesome all-day drive, winding through the park’s dramatic canyon cliffs. Make sure to stop at Grant Grove, Roaring River Falls, and Zumwalt Meadow to see towering trees and stunning waterfalls. It’s a perfect mix of scenic beauty and cool pit stops!

Leaving the towering sequoias and rugged canyons of Sequoia and Kings Canyon, we head to one of the most iconic national parks in the world: Yosemite. This national park is known for its breathtaking granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and giant sequoias.

This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and offers endless opportunities for hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the beauty of nature.

Here’s what to look out for in Yosemite:

• Yosemite Valley: This is the heart of the park, where you’ll find famous landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. The valley is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is in spring and early summer when the waterfalls are at their peak.
• Tunnel View: One of the most famous viewpoints in Yosemite, offering a classic view of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. This spot is perfect for sunrise or sunset. In winter, the snow adds a magical touch to the already stunning landscape.
• Glacier Point: Provides panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. The road to Glacier Point is usually open from late May through October, but you can snowshoe to the point in winter if you’re up for an adventure.
• Mariposa Grove: Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. The grove is open year-round, but the access road is closed in winter, requiring a hike or snowshoe to reach the trees.

• Yosemite Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in North America. The best time to see it is in spring, when the snowmelt is at its peak. A short, easy hike takes you to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, while a more strenuous trail leads to the top.
• Tuolumne Meadows: A beautiful high-altitude meadow with stunning views and great hiking trails. The area is usually accessible from June through September, depending on snow conditions.
• Mist Trail: One of the most popular hikes in the park, taking you up close to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Be prepared to get wet, especially in spring and early summer. The trail can be slippery, so wear good hiking boots.

Three scenic highways lead you to Yosemite National Park: 41 from the south, and 120 and 140 from the northeast. These routes are generally open all year. Highways 41 and 120, being at higher elevations, are more likely to have snow and require chains during winter storms. Highway 140, known as the All-Weather Highway, enters Yosemite Valley at a lower elevation and is usually snow-free.

This hidden gem is all about towering rock spires, fun caves, and beautiful wildflowers. It’s perfect for hiking, bird watching, and exploring some really unique landscapes. Don’t forget to stop by the West Side Visitor Center to get maps, trail information, and the latest updates on cave openings and wildlife sightings. The visitor center is a great resource, especially if it’s your first time visiting Pinnacles.

• High Peaks Trail: This trail is a must. You’ll get right into the heart of those crazy rock formations. The views from the top are amazing, especially in spring with all the wildflowers. There are some steep and narrow sections, but they’ve got railings to help you out.
• Bear Gulch Cave: Check out this awesome talus cave where Townsend’s big-eared bats hang out. The cave is usually open in spring and fall but might be closed during the bats’ breeding season. Don’t forget your flashlight and some sturdy shoes!
• Balconies Cave: Another cool cave to explore, and it’s a bit easier than Bear Gulch. It’s open year-round, but always check for closures. It’s a fun little adventure that’s perfect for families.
• Condor Gulch Trail: If you want to spot some California condors, this is your trail. You’ll get fantastic views of the Pinnacles, especially in cooler months when the birds are more active.
• Old Pinnacles Trail: Perfect for a longer hike, this trail takes you through diverse landscapes, including shaded oak woodlands and open grassy areas. It connects with the Balconies Cave for a more extended adventure.
• West Side Visitor Center: Stop by to get maps, trail information, and the latest updates on cave openings and wildlife sightings. The visitor center is a great resource, especially if it’s your first time visiting Pinnacles.

If you’re planning to camp at Pinnacles National Park, head to the East Entrance since it’s the only spot with a campground. If you’re just visiting for the day or not camping, check out the hikes you want to do and map them out to see which entrance works best for you.

Ready for a change of scenery? Next, we’re off to Lassen Volcanic National Park, a gem in California where you can explore fascinating geothermal features and beautiful mountain landscapes. It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from Pinnacles National Park, and it’s definitely worth the trip. Lassen Volcanic is like a mini Yellowstone, with boiling springs, steaming fumaroles, and even an active volcano.

Add these spots to your California National Park itinerary:

• Bumpass Hell: This is the largest hydrothermal area in the park. The trail to Bumpass Hell is around 3 miles round trip and takes you to boardwalks over boiling springs and fumaroles. Best time to visit is late spring to early fall when the trail is snow-free.
• Lassen Peak: If you’re up for a challenge, hike up to Lassen Peak. The trail is about 5 miles round trip with a 2,000-foot elevation gain. The views from the top are incredible, especially in the summer when you can see for miles.
• Manzanita Lake: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can kayak, fish, or just walk around the lake. The views of Lassen Peak reflected in the water are stunning, particularly at sunset.
• Sulphur Works: This area is right off the main road and features boiling mud pots and steam vents. It’s an easy and fascinating stop to see geothermal activity up close.

• Devastated Area: Learn about the 1915 eruption of Lassen Peak with a short, easy trail that takes you through the area affected by the blast. There are informational signs along the way that explain the eruption’s impact.
• Subway Cave: Explore this lava tube near the northern entrance of the park. It’s a cool (literally) adventure, perfect for a hot summer day. Bring a flashlight, as it’s dark inside!
• Kings Creek Falls: A beautiful 30-foot waterfall that you can reach via a moderate 3-mile round trip hike. The trail is lovely in the spring and early summer when wildflowers are in bloom.
• Summit Lake: A great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. There are also campgrounds nearby if you decide to stay overnight. It’s a peaceful and scenic area, especially nice in the summer.

Lassen has a pretty short season for visits. The park roads usually don’t open until June after the snow melts, and by October or November, they can get snowed in again. So, the best time to go is between July and September. Make sure to check snow conditions before you plan your trip and always have a backup plan in case some roads are closed.

From the volcanic wonders of Lassen, we’re heading to the majestic Redwood National and State Parks, about a 5-hour drive. These parks are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, offering a truly awe-inspiring experience and are among the best places to visit on the West Coast.

Here, you can hike through ancient forests, walk along pristine beaches, and even spot some wildlife. The redwoods are a sight to behold and a must-see on any California road trip.

Here are the park’s highlights:

• Tall Trees Grove: This secluded grove is home to some of the tallest trees in the world. You need a permit to hike here, so be sure to plan ahead. The hike itself is about 4 miles round trip, and it’s worth every step.
• Lady Bird Johnson Grove: An easy, 1.5-mile loop trail that takes you through a stunning redwood grove. It’s a great spot for a leisurely walk and some incredible photo opportunities. The trail is accessible year-round, but it’s especially beautiful in the morning light.
• Fern Canyon: This spot feels like stepping into another world. The canyon walls are covered in lush ferns, and a creek runs through it. The trail is only about a mile long, but it can be slippery, so wear good shoes. Fern Canyon is open in the summer and fall, but the access road can be closed in winter.
• Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: This park is known for its dense, old-growth redwoods. The Stout Grove trail is a short, easy hike that takes you through some of the most impressive trees in the park.
• Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Home to the famous Fern Canyon and some great hiking trails. The Prairie Creek and Foothill loop is a nice, moderate hike that takes you through a mix of redwood forest and open meadow.

• Gold Bluffs Beach: This beautiful, secluded beach is part of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It’s a great spot for a picnic, beachcombing, and even camping. The beach is accessible year-round, but the weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.
• Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This scenic drive takes you through the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It’s a fantastic way to see the redwoods from your car, with plenty of pullouts and picnic spots along the way. The parkway is open year-round.
• Klamath River Overlook: For some stunning coastal views, head to the Klamath River Overlook. It’s a great spot for whale watching in the winter and spring, and the sunsets here are amazing.

The park’s four campgrounds are spread out across the three redwood state parks (there isn’t a campground in Redwood National Park itself!). You can reserve any of the campgrounds through Reserve California.

While they might not be as hard to snag as those in some other big national parks, they still fill up months ahead in summer. So, I suggest booking your spot as soon as you’ve nailed down your travel dates.

Time for some well deserved R&R! We’re heading to the vibrant city of San Francisco for a short rest before our final national park, Channel Islands. It’s about a 5.5-hour drive from the Redwood National and State Parks, and it’s a fantastic place to recharge. San Francisco is packed with iconic sights, delicious food, and unique neighborhoods. Get ready for some city adventures!

Here’s what not to miss:

• Golden Gate Bridge: No trip to San Francisco is complete without visiting this iconic landmark. Walk or bike across the bridge for stunning views of the bay and the city skyline, one of the amazing things to do in California.
• Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to Alcatraz to tour the infamous former prison. The audio tour is really well done and gives you a great sense of the island’s history. Book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out, especially in summer.
• Fisherman’s Wharf: A bustling waterfront area full of shops, unique restaurants, and street performers. Try some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery. It’s touristy but worth it.
• Chinatown: Explore the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. Wander through the streets, visit the shops, and grab some dim sum. It’s especially lively during Chinese New Year celebrations in winter.
• Union Square: The heart of downtown San Francisco, known for its shopping and theaters. Check out the large department stores and boutique shops. During the holiday season, the square is beautifully decorated and has an ice-skating rink.

• Lombard Street: Famous for its steep, winding turns, Lombard Street is a fun stop for some quirky photos. Drive down or walk along the sidewalk to experience its charm.
• Golden Gate Park: A massive urban park with gardens, museums, and even a bison paddock. The Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers are must-sees.
• Haight-Ashbury: This neighborhood is known for its bohemian history and eclectic shops. Visit vintage clothing stores, record shops, and cool cafes. It’s a great place to soak up some local culture.
• The Painted Ladies: These famous Victorian houses are a perfect spot for photos, especially with the city skyline in the background. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun is behind you, lighting up the houses beautifully.

Riding a cable car is a quintessential San Francisco experience. Hop on at Powell Street for a fun and scenic ride through the city’s hills. It’s especially fun in the summer when you can enjoy the cool breeze.

Our final stop is the stunning Channel Islands National Park. After a 5.5-hour drive from San Francisco to Ventura, we’ll take a scenic boat trip to the islands. These islands offer rugged, untouched wilderness with dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves, and amazing wildlife.

Each island has something unique to offer, so let’s dive in:

• Anacapa Island: This tiny island is known for its dramatic sea cliffs, lighthouse, and awesome hiking trails. The boat trip takes about an hour. Once you’re there, hike the easy two-mile loop trail for incredible ocean views.
• Santa Cruz Island: The largest island in the park, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Check out the Cavern Point Loop Trail for panoramic coastal views. If you love water sports, the kelp forests here are amazing for snorkeling and kayaking.
• Santa Rosa Island: Famous for its beautiful beaches and unique Torrey pines. It’s a bit further, so the boat ride is longer, but totally worth it. Visit Water Canyon Beach for stunning coastal scenery and keep an eye out for island foxes.
• San Miguel Island: The most remote island with a wild, windswept landscape. Point Bennett is a must-see to spot one of the largest congregations of seals and sea lions. The boat trip is longer, but the isolation and beauty are worth it.

Tip: Make sure to pack everything you’ll need – seriously, everything. The infrastructure on the islands is pretty barebones. Unlike other big-name parks, you won’t find any restaurants, hotels, stores, or even traffic.

Except for the Scorpion Canyon Campground on Santa Cruz and the Water Canyon Campground on Santa Rosa, there’s no potable water. So, plan to bring a gallon of water per person per day if you’re heading to any other areas.

As our incredible journey through California’s national parks comes to an end, it’s time to head back to Los Angeles. The trip back is filled with scenic views and some final adventures. Here’s how to make the most of your ride back.

Boat Trip Back to Ventura: The boat ride back from the Channel Islands to Ventura is a great time to relax and reflect on your adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, and other marine life that often make an appearance. It’s a good idea to bring some snacks and water for the boat ride and make sure to have your camera ready for any last-minute photo ops.

Option 1: Highway 101 (Approx. 1.5 hours): This is the fastest and most direct route. From Ventura, hop on Highway 101 South, which will take you straight into Los Angeles. You’ll pass through scenic coastal areas and charming towns like Santa Barbara. If you have some extra time, consider stopping in Santa Barbara for a quick bite or a stroll along the beach.

Option 2: Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) – Highway 1 (Approx. 2 hours): For a more scenic drive, take the Pacific Coast Highway. Head south on Highway 101, then switch to Highway 1 (PCH) at Oxnard. This route offers stunning ocean views and passes through Malibu, where you can stop to enjoy the beach or grab a bite at one of the seaside restaurants. It’s a slightly longer route but worth it for the beautiful coastal scenery.

Option 3: Inland Route – Highway 126 to Interstate 5 (Approx. 2 hours): If you’re looking to avoid coastal traffic, take Highway 126 East from Ventura, which will connect you to Interstate 5 South. This route takes you through the agricultural heartland of California and offers a different kind of scenic drive. It’s less crowded and can be a quicker option during peak traffic times.

Before you pack your bags and hit the road, here are a few key things to think about for your California adventure.