National Parks have always been right up there at the very top of my list of places to see and there’s nowhere else in the World that has some many amazing parks are found in one place than California.
There’s one way to explore the Californian national parks, it’s at the hands of your own wheel, preferably a jeep or something sporty. As the third largest state in America, you can imagine how vast this state is and there’s no better way of getting around it than by car. Rather than relying on others, hop in the car that is waiting for you at the starting line and enjoy the independence of exploring of your own accord.
The best way to discover the Californian national park highlights is by sticking to a rough itinerary that will incorporate all the main sights, giving you plenty of time to explore, embrace and soak up the phenomenal scenes that await you.
Here is a typical itinerary that encompasses the major parks and sights of this west coast state, which will give you ample time to explore and travel between the stunning scenic destinations.
Sequoia National Park
Start off at San Francisco where you will be able to prepare yourself for the adventure ahead by taking a bus to Twin Peaks, casting your eye over the breathtaking city below.
Pick up your Car and head for Sequoia National Park. This phenomenal park is home to some incredible sights and sounds, including the colossal General Sherman tree, the largest tree in the world.
Watch this amazing video from National Geographic to grasp the sheer size of this giant Redwood tree, the tallest tree in the World.
Also don’t miss a drive through the Sequoia Tunnel Tree pictured here:
Neighbouring Kings Canyon National Park are absolute must-sees if you want to be bowled away by natural beauty.
Sequoia National Park Location Map
Yosemite National Park
Drive north to Yosemite where you will be able to admire the incredible vistas from vantage points around the park. The lakes of Tuolumne Meadows are well worth incorporating into your trip, which reflect the images of the mountains and forests beautifully.
This stunning video gives you an idea of the sheer size and majestic beauty for all to see at Yosemite:
Map of Yosemite National Park
Death Valley National Park
Head for Death Valley; the barren landscapes will shock you. The heart of this three million acre national park is so stark and arid that it has some of the hottest temperatures on record. Furnace Creek Ranch is known for being the location of the hottest temperature recorded on earth at 56.7 °C (134 °F) on 10th July 1913.
Stop at Zabriskie Point and cast your eyes north east for a view of some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes you will have the fortune to see.
This video showcases Death Valley in all its glory
Map of Death Valley National Park
Finish in Las Vegas not only to visit the awe inspiring Grand Canyon but also for a chance to let your hair down and see what Sin City is all about!
Whether you choose to end your American adventure here or prefer to make it a multi-centre trip by heading elsewhere afterwards is completely up to you. Whatever booking you make, you won’t be disappointed when you sample a little bit of the All American dream.
