7-Day Guided Range of Light Road Trip
Do you crave towering trees, star-filled skies, and peaceful alpine trails?
This curated road trip leads you through three of California’s most breathtaking national parks. Begin with ancient sequoias in Sequoia, descend into the dramatic cliffs of Kings Canyon, and finish in Yosemite—home to granite giants and iconic views.
Every day is crafted for fresh air, freedom, and unforgettable scenery.
📍 Itinerary Snapshot
Days 1–2: Sequoia National Park
Day 3: Kings Canyon
Days 4–6: Yosemite National Park
Day 7: Departure
Suggested Itinerary
✈️ Day 1: Arrival & Drive to the Sierra Foothills
Welcome! Fly into LAX or Fresno and begin begin your journey into California’s majestic Sierra Nevada mountains (3.5 hour drive) in your own vehicle or with a private driver I’ve arranged.
Unpack, unwind, and listen to the Kaweah River flow nearby. Your accommodations are nestled just a quarter mile from Sequoia National Park. Spend the evening unwinding on a private deck.
Early trip tip: Download offline maps—cell service is limited inside the parks.
🌲 Day 2: Discover Sequoia National Park
Today is all about giants—giant trees, giant views, and giant memories. Your expert naturalist guide will lead full-day private day of exploration in Sequoia National Park, home to massive sequoia groves and striking granite formations. Walk beneath the famous General Sherman Tree, climb Moro Rock for views of the Great Western Divide and wander peaceful trails looking for wildlife near Crescent Meadow.
⭐ Evening highlight: Private stargazing with telescope and constellation maps + storytelling and s’mores.
I’ll construct the experience based on your top travel priorities — we can add a professional photography session or 🧺 gourmet picnic for an unforgettable mid-hike meal.
Day 3: Kings Canyon Exploration
Visit General Grant Tree, then drive into the depths of Kings Canyon. Hike Zumwalt Meadow, view Roaring River Falls, and marvel at the granite cliffs.
Head into the wild beauty of Kings Canyon, one of North America’s deepest canyons. Your private guide will lead the way along peaceful trails, glacier-carved rock walls, and lesser-traveled paths.
I suggest spending the morning in Grant Grove to see the second-largest sequoia. In the afternoon, head to Cedar Grove for a short walk to Roaring River Falls - perfect on a warm afternoon. Optional add-ons: 🐎 Horseback riding a cave tour at Boyden Cavern.
🧗 Day 4: Scenic Drive to Yosemite + Intro Rock Climbing
Make your way to the iconic Yosemite National Park. Along the route, stop at Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias to walk among ancient trees (accessible via park shuttle). Upon arrival in Yosemite Valley, you’ll have the option to try a rock climbing lesson tailored for beginners—with expert guidance, all the gear you need and rewarding, unforgettable views. Reward yourself with a special dinner at The Mountain Room located inside the Yosemite Valley Lodge.
🌄 Day 5: Explore Yosemite Valley
Explore the breathtaking Yosemite Valley on a private hiking adventure tailored to your interests. Visit icons like El Capitan to watch rock climbers, the iconic Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls (the tallest in North America.) Choose short hikes or scenic overlooks,based on your pace and energy.
Dining options today range from a valley picnic to local diner or fine dining at The Ahwahnee.
🏔️ Day 6: Yosemite High Country Tour
Trade the valley’s bustle for Yosemite’s peaceful high country. Head to Tuolumne Meadows for peaceful alpine hikes and views over Tenaya Lake (postcard worthy spot for a picnic lunch.) Your private guide will choose a trail based on your group’s interests—expect tranquil alpine scenery, granite domes, and cool, fresh mountain air. If you’re looking for more, the short hikes to Lembert Come or Cathedral Lakes will reward you with, you guessed it, stunning views.
The region is especially known for its pinot noirs. Many wineries are within walking or cycling distance of the village square for those who want to explore on two wheels.
👋 Day 7: Farewell
Make your way back to LAX or SFO (4–6 hours). Want to stay longer? Let’s talk about adding Big Sur or Napa.
Where to Stay near Sequoia: Montecito Sequoia Lodge
Nestled between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Montecito Sequoia Lodge is an award-winning, all-inclusive retreat offering lodging, fresh California meals, and seasonal activities. Set on 40 forested acres with mountain views and a private lake, it’s the perfect family-friendly base to explore the Giant Sequoia Groves.
Where to Stay near Sequoia: AutoCamp Sequoia
Just outside Sequoia National Park, AutoCamp offers a stylish stay in custom-designed Airstreams with spa-inspired bathrooms, plush beds, and modern amenities. Set in a prime location with stunning mountain views, each suite blends mid-century cool with outdoor charm. Enjoy communal fire pits, curated local experiences, and a clubhouse designed for relaxing. With comfort this dialed in, you might never want to leave.
Where to Stay near Yosemite: The Ahwahnee
A National Historic Landmark, The Ahwahnee is Yosemite’s most iconic hotel—celebrated for its grand architecture, timeless elegance, and storied guest list of presidents and royalty. Set against a backdrop of towering cliffs and meadows, it offers a refined stay with rich history and warm hospitality.
Where to Stay near Yosemite: Yosemite Valley Lodge
Family friendly and close to the waterfalls, without waiting in a long entrance lin Please note: guest rooms are not equipped with air conditioning.
Bonus: Under Canvas Glamping
Experience the outdoors in style with upscale safari tents featuring king beds, plush linens, and private ensuite bathrooms set amid towering pines. Enjoy café-style dining with seasonal menus, bottomless Smith Teamaker teas and coffee, housemade grab-and-go fare, and nightly s’mores. With West Elm–furnished lounges and easy access to Yosemite via the nearby YARTS shuttle, Under Canvas offers a truly luxe base for your national park adventure.
Getting Here 🇳🇿
Start this trip by flying to Los Angeles or Fresno, CA
Approximate drive times:
LAX → Sequoia: ~4 hrs
Sequoia → Yosemite: ~5 hrs
Yosemite → SFO/LAX: ~5 hrs
🧭 Let me take care of the flight research and booking so you can focus on what you’re most excited to explore first.
⭐ This is a sample itinerary and everything is customizable for your highest (and lowest) travel priorities. Get in touch to start planning! ⭐