USA Road Trip: 6 Iconic National Parks in 10 Days Along the West Coast
by Jenny Cyrus
Our clients are a well-traveled group, and some of our favorite travel inspiration comes directly from their experiences. This thoughtfully planned road trip highlights the beauty of America’s national parks while showcasing the unforgettable landscapes of the West Coast.
In just 10 days, you’ll explore six of the most iconic national parks in the United States—each offering its own distinct scenery, wildlife, and natural wonders.
Getting Started
Fly into Fresno, California, pick up your rental car or RV, and head north. In about 1½ to 2 hours, you’ll reach your first destination: Sequoia National Park.
Days 1–2: Sequoia National Park
Home to the world’s largest trees by volume, Sequoia National Park is a humbling place to begin your journey. Walk among ancient giants like the General Sherman Tree, take in dramatic mountain scenery and deep canyons, and explore scenic hiking trails. Don’t miss the famous Tunnel Log, where you can actually drive through a fallen sequoia.
Where to stay: Wuksachi Lodge is the only hotel inside the park. Lodging is also available just outside the park in the town of Three Rivers.
Day 3: Kings Canyon National Park
From Sequoia, it’s about a 50-mile (roughly 1½-hour) drive along the scenic Kings Canyon Byway to reach Kings Canyon National Park. Often overshadowed by its neighbors, Kings Canyon is a true hidden gem. The park features massive sequoia groves, including Redwood Mountain Grove—the largest remaining natural sequoia grove in the world. Stand before the General Grant Tree, known as the “Nation’s Christmas Tree,” and take in the awe-inspiring glacial canyon, one of the deepest in North America.
Where to stay: There are three lodging options within the park, or you can stay outside the park in Three Rivers or Fresno.
Days 4–6: Yosemite National Park
A 3½- to 4½-hour drive from Kings Canyon brings you to Yosemite—an essential stop on any West Coast road trip. Famous for towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, roaring waterfalls such as Yosemite Falls, and lush valleys framed by alpine peaks, Yosemite showcases the very best of the Sierra Nevada. Spend multiple days hiking, wildlife spotting, and soaking in views that feel almost unreal.
Where to stay: Yosemite offers a wide range of options, from luxury accommodations to camping, with nine lodging locations inside the park. Outside the park, El Portal provides quick access to Yosemite Valley; Mariposa offers more dining and historic charm; Oakhurst and Fish Camp serve the South Entrance and Mariposa Grove; and Groveland is ideal for the Big Oak Flat entrance and Hetch Hetchy.
Day 7: Lassen Volcanic National Park
Prepare for a longer travel day, with an 8- to 9-hour drive to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lassen is a fascinating and lesser-visited park where you can see all four types of volcanoes in one place. Explore bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles at Bumpass Hell, admire pristine mountain lakes, and stroll through wildflower-filled meadows with Lassen Peak rising dramatically in the background.
Where to stay: Cabins and campgrounds are available inside the park. Outside the park, lodging can be found in Mill Creek or the Mount Lassen/Shingletown area.
Day 8: Crater Lake National Park
A five-hour drive from Lassen brings you to Crater Lake National Park. Be prepared to be amazed by the lake’s intense blue color—the deepest lake in the United States. Formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama, Crater Lake is fed almost entirely by snowmelt. Take in panoramic views, spot Wizard Island, and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem, including the rare Mazama newt.
Where to stay: Inside the park, you can stay at Crater Lake Lodge or the Cabins at Mazama Village. Additional lodging options are available 20–32 miles outside the park.
Days 9–10: Mount Rainier National Park
From Crater Lake, enjoy a 6- to 8-hour drive through classic Pacific Northwest scenery before ending your adventure at one of America’s most iconic peaks. Mount Rainier, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States, dominates the landscape with its glacier-covered slopes. Wander through old-growth forests, hike among vibrant wildflower meadows at Paradise, and take in unforgettable views of this majestic volcano.
Where to stay: There are five lodges within the park, or you can stay in Ashford near the Southwest Entrance or Packwood near the East Entrance.
Trip Finale
Your journey wraps up in Seattle, Washington, where you’ll fly home with a camera full of memories—and a deep appreciation for America’s national parks.
Best Time to Go:
Plan your trip for July, August, or September for the best weather and minimal snow, ensuring access to high-elevation roads and trails.