Beginning in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California, this road trip offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most breathtaking national parks and scenic landscapes in central California. Ending in the laid-back bohemian city of San Francisco, this adventure takes you through diverse terrain across the Sunshine State. This route allows you to experience the stunning natural beauty of California, from its sun-kissed coastal fringe to towering mountains and ancient forests. 

With Cheaper Than Cars, you can find the most competitive prices on your road trip vehicle of choice. With accessible pick-ups direct from Los Angeles International Airport and across the city, the perfect vehicle for your National Park adventure is just a few mouse clicks away.

What To Expect

California’s national parks showcase the diverse natural beauty of the Sunshine State. From the vibrant marine life of the Channel Islands to the unique rugged desert landscapes of Joshua Tree, and the towering sequoias of Sequoia National Park, this incredible road trip is not to be missed.

Making the trip during the spring or fall allows you to enjoy mild, comfortable weather while encountering fewer crowds.

Overall, you’ll travel around 600 miles (965 km), and the journey can take you anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks or more, depending on what you plan to do in the parks. If you’re keen on exploring on foot, climbing, kayaking, or camping out, then you’ll want to take time to properly enjoy everything these stunning landscapes have to offer.

Here’s your itinerary for a breathtaking journey through California’s rich diverse natural landscapes.

Channel Islands National Park

Leaving behind the bustle of Los Angeles, headed towards the Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of Southern California. Leave your car at the ample car parking space by the ferry port in Ventura, before boarding a boat to the islands. 

This truly unique park consists of five islands, each with its own distinct identity. Anacapa Island, the closest to the mainland, is famous for its picturesque lighthouse and sea arch, along with vast colonies of nesting seabirds. Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the group, features rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and some of the world’s largest sea caves. Santa Rosa Island is known for its rolling hills and Torrey pines

The incredible biodiversity of the islands has seen them nicknamed “The Galapagos of North America”, and you may spot seals, sea lions, and migrating whales during your visit. Whether you choose to kayak into ancient sea caves or hike rugged trails, a trip to California’s Channel Islands is never to be forgotten. 

  • Distance from Los Angeles: 70 miles (113 km)
  • Driving Time from Los Angeles: Approximately 1.5 hours to Ventura, then a short boat ride to the islands.

Joshua Tree National Park

Back on the mainland, pick up your car and head east from Ventura to Joshua Tree National Park. This stunning landscape, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, is known around the world for its Joshua Trees. These twisted trees are a species of yucca that thrives in the harsh desert terrain, and once gave their name to an iconic album by Irish rock band, U2. 

The park is a natural playground for many Californians, providing a range of activities from hiking and rock climbing to stargazing. Unique geological features, such as Skull Rock and Arch Rock, give the park an otherworldly quality, while at night the darkness that descends creates a blanket of stars above.

The fit and adventurous may want to hike to the top of Ryan Mountain for a stunning view across the desert landscape, particularly at sunrise or sunset.

  • Distance from Channel Islands National Park: 180 miles (290 km)
  • Driving Time from Channel Islands National Park: Approximately 3.5 hours

Sequoia National Park

The stunning landscape of Joshua Tree can be hard to lead, but it’s time to head north to a very different national park. Sequoia National Park is home to some of the world’s largest trees, including the park’s star attraction, the General Sherman Tree. This epic tree is estimated to be around 2,200 to 2,700 years old, and is the largest tree on Earth by volume, measuring 275 feet tall and over 36 feet in diameter at its base.

In addition to the giant sequoias, the park features high mountain peaks, deep canyons, and expansive flower-rich meadows that are a riot of colour in spring and summer. The park is also home to the towering Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States at 14,505 feet.

There’s a wealth of activities to do in the park, including an extensive network of hiking trails, with the Congress Trail winding through groves of ancient sequoias. There are also opportunities for rocking climbing, and scenic drives, which connect Sequoia, with its neighbouring park and our next destination, Kings Canyon National Park. 

  • Distance from Joshua Tree National Park: 275 miles (443 km)
  • Driving Time from Joshua Tree National Park: Approximately 5 hours

Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon is characterised by the dramatic landscape of deep canyons, towering granite cliffs, roaring rivers, and lush meadows. Established in 1940, the park encompasses over 460,000 acres of stunning wilderness, providing a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Kings Canyon itself is one of the deepest canyons in North America, carved by the Kings River and offering breathtaking views for various vantage points. At the Cedar Grove area, visitors can access the floor of Kings Canyon and experience the towering granite walls for themselves. 

There’s a range of hiking trails available, from the easy Roaring River Falls Trail to the more challenging Mist Falls Trail, that leads to some of the park’s grandest waterfalls. In the Grant Grove, you’ll find the General Grant Tree, the second largest tree in the world which today stands as a memorial to the nation’s fallen soldiers.

  • Distance from Sequoia National Park: 50 miles (80 km)
  • Driving Time from Sequoia National Park: Approximately 1.5 hours

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the best-loved parks in the USA. Spanning nearly 1,200 square miles, the park is known for its dramatic granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Climbers from around the world travel to Yosemite to tackle the iconic El Capitan and Half Dome, and the park is traversed by hiking trails suitable for different abilities.

Yosemite is also home to some of the tallest waterfalls in North America, including Yosemite Falls, which plunges 2,425 feet from the top to the base. In the park, you can explore giant sequoia groves, home to some of the world’s oldest and largest trees, alpine lakes, and lush flower-filled meadows. The park is highly popular, so consider a visit out of season to avoid the crowds, or take one of the more adventurous trails to get truly off the beaten track.

Guided tours are available, where you can learn more about the park, its long history of human habitation, and rich flora and fauna.

From Yosemite, take the CA-120 west, before joining the I-580 W to San Francisco, and the end of your Californian road trip. 

  • Distance from Kings Canyon National Park: 100 miles (161 km)
  • Driving Time from Kings Canyon National Park: Approximately 2.5 hours

What To Remember

America’s National Parks provide never-to-be-forgotten experiences, whether you’re just passing through, want to hike the trails, camp, climb, or kayak.

The parks contain diverse landscapes from snow-capped peaks, to arid deserts so It’s important to treat them with respect and be prepared. Always carry water and food, along with a first aid kit for medical emergencies. Let other people know your route before you set off, and make sure you pack clothes that are appropriate for the destination and your intended activity. Stick to your intended route.

When encountering wildlife it’s important to play it safe by keeping your distance. During your trip, take only photographs, and leave only footprints.

Ready For A National Park Adventure

America’s National Parks allow you to experience stunning natural landscapes, real wilderness, and countless opportunities for outdoor activities.

This road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco allows you to experience the diverse natural beauty of the Sunshine State for yourself.

With Cheaper Than Cars, you can travel in comfort whatever your budget.

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Martyn Clayton
Martyn Clayton
I'm a copywriter and journalist who has written extensively for travel and leisure brands for over two decades. Based in Cornwall, UK, I love exploring destinations near and far, learning about the history and culture of different countries, and sampling the cuisine. Japan and the Far East are top of my bucket list

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