The road from San Francisco to Las Vegas isn’t just a highway—it’s a full California adventure! When I took this trip, I drove through some of the most stunning landscapes in the U.S. From towering granite cliffs in Yosemite to the ancient sequoias, the energy of Los Angeles, and the surreal beauty of Joshua Tree, this trip packs in an unforgettable mix of nature, city life, and adventure.
I meandered a bit through this trip, but I boiled it down to a 7-day road trip that should work great if you have a week to spend in the area. You’ll get to experience breathtaking national parks, the best cities in the west, and wind your way through desert landscapes before arriving in the neon oasis of Las Vegas. This guide will take you through each stop, offering tips on what to do, where to eat, and where to stay to make the most of your journey.
Planning Your San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip
Road Trip Pro Tip:
Before we get started, don’t forget the most important planning tip: have the right road trip music playlist set up for your trip!
Ok, so maybe that’s not THE most important part–I one road trip essential that I always pack when I’m heading out on the road is a roadside emergency kit. I have used mine multiple times (damn this temperamental battery of mine!) and for $30-40 it offers a huge amount of peace of mind.
What is the best time of year to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas?
My favorite time to take this trip is between late March and early June. You’ll get great, warm weather in the national parks, but not too hot in Vegas (watch out for those 115 degree summer days!). And even better, you’ll get to see the waterfalls in Yosemite at their peak flow, and the wildflowers blooming in Joshua Tree.
The fall season, from September to November, is also great because the visits in the desert will be cooler than they are in the summer, and you’ll see some vibrant colors in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.
Now, on to the itinerary!
Day 1: San Francisco to Yosemite National Park
Drive Time: ~4 hours (190 miles/300 km)
This was one of my favorite days of the trip, because you leave a huge metropolis of the San Francisco area, cross the beautiful Bay Bridge (and wave goodbye to Alcatraz as you cross!) and head east toward the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains. As you leave behind the coastal fog and urban sprawl, the landscape gradually shifts from urban cityscape to rolling hills, to expansive farmland, to emerald-colored foothills, and finally the rugged cliffs of Yosemite.
Morning: Drive with a Stop in Groveland
It’s useful to note that in Yosemite National Park, there aren’t many places to pick up food, supplies and all the things you’ll want for your trip. So about 3 hours into your drive today, it’s a good time to take a break in Groveland for any last minute things you’ll need. But I love this place because it’s a historic Gold Rush-era town and I’m a sucker for great history! Stretch your legs and walk through its fun little streets lined with 19th-century buildings. And while you’re there, be sure to grab a bite at the Iron Door Saloon, California’s oldest bar. Although 1853 isn’t very old for most places in the world, hey, we’re a young state out west!
With its rustic decor, small town charm, and live music, the Iron Door offers a glimpse into the state’s Gold Rush history. And one thing the place is really known for is the grand old tradition of wrapping a dollar bill in a dart and throwing it up into the ceiling. (Just make sure to stick it on the first try because it can be a little awkward throwing it again and again).
Afternoon: Arriving in Yosemite & Exploring the Valley
Once inside Yosemite National Park, check into wherever you’re going to stay. My quick suggestions of places to sleep:
● North Pines Campground ($) – Nestled near the Merced River, this campground provides a serene setting close to key trails.
● The Ahwahnee Hotel ($$$) – An unbeatable combination of historic charm, luxury, and jaw-dropping views of Half Dome and other Yosemite landmarks from your doorstep. But as awesome as this place is, you’ll be paying steep prices!
If you left San Francisco early enough, you should have plenty of time for an afternoon trip through the park. One option is just driving around, but that’s not why you came to Yosemite! Spend your first afternoon getting acquainted with some of Yosemite’s most iconic sights:
● Bridalveil Fall – An easy 0.5-mile round trip walk takes you to this misty waterfall, often creating rainbows in the sunlight.
● Tunnel View – A must-see viewpoint offering the classic Yosemite landscape, with El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome all in one amazing scene.
● El Capitan – Stop by the El Capitan Meadow to watch climbers scale the world’s most famous vertical rock face.
Evening: Sunset at Glacier Point
Wrapping up the day with a drive up to Glacier Point will take you to one of Yosemite’s best sunset spots. From here, you’ll see Half Dome in an incredible scene as the sun dips behind the mountains. And if you have time for it, you can take a quick hike to Sentinel Dome for a 360-degree panoramic view. The best part about Sentinel Dome is that even on the busy days in Yosemite, you can usually avoid the crowds here.
Road Trip Day 2: Exploring Yosemite National Park
The park is world class, and it’s also huge. So the best plan is to wake up early for an action-packed day exploring Yosemite.
Morning: Hike the Mist Trail
Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most famous hikes. So you’ll be walking alongside other people, but trust me, it’s worth it. This is a somewhat steep (but rewarding) trek that takes you alongside two stunning waterfalls:
● Vernal Fall – This is when you realize why it’s called MIST trail–you’ll get some sprinkles from this as you climb the granite steps alongside this powerful waterfall.
● Nevada Fall – Continue to the top for amazing views (I’ll probably be saying “amazing views” a few times because WOW it’s really true!) over the valley below. If you have extra energy, you can extend your hike to the John Muir Trail for a more gradual descent with panoramic scenery. And while you’re taking this hike, please give a silent thank you to John Muir, a great American who is the reason this park, and all other National Parks in America exist!
Afternoon: Lunch, then More Hiking!
So, let me first say that you’re walking through the forest. So don’t expect the cuisine to be world class around here. But I think hunger and exercise is the best seasoning, so after a hike you can grab some grub at Base Camp Eatery. It’s quick, it’s serviceable, it’s fine. But really, you’re just here to fuel up for the afternoon. (And don’t worry, post-lunch won’t be as hard)
Here are a couple of choices:
● Tuolumne Meadows – A peaceful high-elevation area with alpine scenery, wildflowers, and fewer crowds. This is perfect for an easy walk along the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River. This has vast open meadows with views of the grand granite cliffs that Yosemite is a more secluded place away from the big crowds of other hikers.
Or, another option:
● Mariposa Grove – Home to hundreds of giant sequoias, including the Grizzly Giant and the famous Tunnel Tree. You can go here to be wowed by California’s incredible (and incredibly tall) trees. This has shorter, more accessible hikes and cooler temperatures if you happen to be there on a particularly hot day.
Evening: A well-deserved dinner
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at The Mountain Room, where you can enjoy delicious food with views of Yosemite Falls. And if you have time and energy after dinner, consider heading back to Glacier Point for a stargazing session.
One of the cool things about Yosemite is that it’s far enough away from the rest of the world that you don’t get much light pollution. So you can see an incredible array of stars on a clear night. Just be sure to bring a blanket because it can get cold at night!
And remember to rest up, because tomorrow, you’ll set off for another adventure!
Day 3: Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park
Drive Time: ~3.5 hours (140 miles/225 km)
After spending a few days walking the San Francisco hills and the Yosemite trails, hopefully your legs aren’t too sore! You can bid farewell to Yosemite’s granite cliffs and waterfalls as you embark on a scenic drive south toward Sequoia National Park, a sanctuary of ancient giants. The journey takes you along Highway 41 and Highway 180, winding through rolling foothills and lush forests before climbing into the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Morning: Arrival & The General Grant Tree
As you enter Kings Canyon National Park (adjacent to Sequoia), please don’t miss a stop at the General Grant Tree in Grant Grove! This is the second tallest sequoia tree in the world. Which is why it’s often called “The Nation’s Christmas Tree!” The nearby Grant Grove Trail is an easy walking loop that should only take you 10 minutes, which is perfect for stretching your legs and marveling at other towering sequoias.
Afternoon: Exploring the Giant Forest & Moro Rock
Continue your journey deeper into Sequoia National Park, where the legendary Giant Forest awaits. Here, you’ll encounter the park’s star attraction: The General Sherman Tree. Standing at 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter, this ancient titan is the largest tree on Earth by volume and an awe-inspiring sight to behold.
After admiring the giant, take some time to explore the Big Trees Trail, an easy 1.3-mile loop that winds through a stunning meadow surrounded by towering sequoias. If you’re up for a longer trek, consider the Congress Trail (2 miles round trip), where you’ll encounter impressive tree clusters like The President, The Senate, and The House.
For breathtaking views, take the scenic drive along Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 350 steps to the top of Moro Rock, a granite dome offering panoramic vistas of the Great Western Divide. The short but steep ascent (0.5 miles round trip) is well worth the effort, rewarding you with unforgettable scenery.
Evening: Where to Stay & Stargazing
As the day winds down, settle in for the night at one of Sequoia’s charming accommodations:
● Wuksachi Lodge ($$$) – A cozy, rustic lodge nestled in the forest, offering modern amenities and a peaceful retreat.
● Lodgepole Campground ($) – A fantastic option for nature lovers, providing campsites near the Kaweah River under a canopy of towering pines.
If the skies are clear, take advantage of Sequoia’s dark sky environment for some incredible stargazing. The high elevation and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot to witness the Milky Way stretching across the night sky.
Rest up for another adventure-filled day ahead!
Day 4-5: Two Days in Los Angeles
Drive Time: ~4 hours (200 miles/320 km)
After days of exploring California’s stunning national parks, it’s time to switch gears and dive into the fast-paced energy of Los Angeles. As you arrive in the City of Angels, check into a hotel in either West Hollywood (for a central location with great nightlife and dining) or Santa Monica (for a more relaxed, beachside atmosphere).
Day 4: Classic LA Experiences
Morning: Hike Runyon Canyon & Hollywood Landmarks
Start your LA adventure with a morning hike at Runyon Canyon, one of the city’s most popular trails, offering breathtaking views of the skyline and even the Hollywood Sign. This is also a prime celebrity-spotting location, as many locals come here for their morning workouts.
After your hike, head to Hollywood Boulevard to visit:
● The Hollywood Walk of Fame – Stroll past the famous star-studded sidewalk and snap a photo with your favorite celebrity’s name.
● TCL Chinese Theatre – Home to the legendary hand and footprints of Hollywood icons, this historic theater is a must-see.
Afternoon: Grand Central Market & The Getty Center
For lunch, head to Grand Central Market, an LA institution since 1917, featuring an array of international food stalls. Whether you’re craving tacos, ramen, pupusas, or gourmet sandwiches, this spot has something for everyone.
After lunch, spend your afternoon at The Getty Center, a world-class art museum perched atop a hill with stunning city views, beautiful gardens, and works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. Even if you’re not an art lover, the architecture and tranquil atmosphere make this visit worthwhile.
Evening: Dinner & Rooftop Drinks
For dinner, indulge at Bestia, one of LA’s most beloved restaurants, known for its handmade pastas, rustic Italian cuisine, and industrial-chic vibe. Reservations are highly recommended!
End your night with rooftop drinks at Perch, a stylish French-inspired rooftop bar in Downtown LA, offering incredible skyline views and live jazz music.
Day 5: Off-the-Beaten-Path LA
Morning: Exploring Los Feliz & Atwater Village
Escape the tourist-heavy areas and explore Los Feliz and Atwater Village, two of LA’s trendiest neighborhoods. These areas are filled with independent bookshops, vintage stores, cozy coffee shops, and hidden speakeasies.
● Stop by Skylight Books in Los Feliz, a beloved indie bookstore.
● Grab coffee at Maru Coffee, a minimalist café with some of the best matcha and espresso in LA.
● Walk along Glendale Boulevard in Atwater Village, a charming stretch of boutiques and local eateries.
Afternoon: Echo Park Lake & Griffith Park
Head to Echo Park Lake, where you can rent a swan paddle boat and glide across the lake while admiring the downtown skyline. If you prefer to stay on land, walk around the water lily-filled lake and stop by Beacon Coffee for a refreshing cold brew.
For lunch, visit HomeState, a Tex-Mex favorite known for its legendary breakfast tacos and homemade tortillas.
Evening: Sunset at Griffith Observatory
Spend your last LA evening at Griffith Park, home to fantastic hiking trails, panoramic city views, and the famous Griffith Observatory. Take a scenic stroll up to Griffith Observatory just in time for sunset, where you can admire sweeping views of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign, and even glimpse the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.
Inside the observatory, explore interactive exhibits, peer through telescopes, and catch a planetarium show to cap off your time in LA with a touch of cosmic wonder.
Rest up—tomorrow, you’re heading into the desert for a completely different adventure!
Day 6: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park
Drive Time: ~2.5 hours (130 miles/210 km)
Leave the city behind and set off for Joshua Tree National Park, where surreal desert landscapes and bizarrely-shaped rock formations await. On your way, stop in Palm Springs, a desert oasis known for its retro architecture, luxury resorts, and artistic vibe.
Morning: Stop in Palm Springs
● Brunch at Cheeky’s – A Palm Springs staple, known for its famous bacon flight, fresh-pressed juices, and inventive breakfast dishes.
● Explore Palm Springs’ Mid-Century Modern Architecture – Drive through neighborhoods filled with iconic 1950s homes, colorful doors, and palm tree-lined streets.
Afternoon: Entering Joshua Tree & Park Highlights
Once inside Joshua Tree National Park, explore some of the best sights:
● Hidden Valley – A scenic 1-mile loop trail that winds through massive boulders and Joshua trees, perfect for first-time visitors.
● Hall of Horrors – A rock formation with narrow slot canyons, perfect for scrambling and light rock climbing. Adventurous visitors can explore the tight passageways between giant boulders, making it a fun, offbeat stop for those looking for a bit of excitement.
● Barker Dam – A short hike to a historic water reservoir, where you might spot bighorn sheep.
● Keys View – A spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and even Mexico on a clear day.
For the adventurous, check out the Hall of Horrors, a rock-climbing area with narrow slot canyons and fun scrambling routes.
Evening: Camping or Staying in Joshua Tree
As night falls, settle in for the evening:
● Camp in the park for an authentic desert experience, where you’ll see some of the clearest night skies in the country.
● Stay at the Joshua Tree Inn, a cozy desert lodge with rustic charm, perfect for a comfortable night’s rest.
End the night with stargazing in Joshua Tree, one of the best places in the U.S. to see the Milky Way in all its glory. No city lights—just endless stars stretching across the sky.
Get ready for another day of adventure in this otherworldly national park!
Day 7: Joshua Tree to Las Vegas
Drive Time: ~3.5 hours (190 miles/305 km)
The final stretch of your journey takes you through the Mojave Desert before arriving in Las Vegas, where bright lights and endless entertainment await.
Before diving into the Strip, make a stop at the Neon Museum to see iconic Vegas signs from the past. Then, check into your hotel—whether it’s the extravagant Bellagio, the stylish Cosmopolitan, or something off the Strip like the artsy NoMad Las Vegas.
For your last night, hit up some slots (maybe even find the legendary Betty White machine), enjoy a world-class meal at Joël Robuchon, and celebrate the end of an epic road trip with a rooftop drink at Skyfall Lounge.
