Got two weeks? Perfect. This road trip through California takes you to some of the most stunning places you’ll ever see, no filler—just the good stuff. Whether it’s your first time here or you’ve been waiting to explore more of the state, this 12-14 day itinerary will take you through a diverse landscape of deserts, mountains, lakes, and coastline, with each stop offering something truly memorable.
If you’re new to the state, consider adding two days for LA to get a taste of the city before diving into the rest of your journey.
Days 1-2: Death Valley National Park
Start off with a stop that feels like you’ve left Earth. Death Valley isn’t just hot; it’s fascinating. Begin with Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, before heading to Zabriskie Point for panoramic views of ridges and valleys. For something unique, drive through Artist’s Palette, where the hills are painted in vibrant shades of pink, green, and purple. Take a walk on the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and finish at Devil’s Golf Course, where jagged salt formations stretch out in every direction.
Days 3-4: Mammoth Lakes
From desert to mountains, Mammoth Lakes gives you a whole new set of landscapes. Visit the Hot Creek Geological Site to see bubbling hot springs, then head up Mammoth Mountain for fresh alpine air and striking vistas. Take some time at the tranquil Convict Lake, and if you have a 4×4 handy, don’t miss the Crowley Lake Columns. Want a quieter adventure? Stop by Mono Lake, known for its strange tufa towers, or hike to Rainbow Falls if you’re up for a longer trek.
Days 5-6: Yosemite National Park
Next, it’s on to one of the country’s most famous national parks. Yosemite Valley is where you’ll find iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning hikes. Visit Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, then get a sweeping view of the whole valley from Tunnel View. For a different perspective, head to Glacier Point for a jaw-dropping overlook of the park’s high peaks and valleys. Arriving early means fewer crowds, but Yosemite is worth it no matter when you show up.
Days 7-8: Lake Tahoe
Clear waters and alpine scenery make Lake Tahoe a breath of fresh air, literally. The view from Emerald Bay is a showstopper, and you can explore the area’s history at Vikingsholm, a Scandinavian-style mansion on the shore. For a scenic walk, check out the Eagle Falls Trail or just relax on the sandy shores of Zephyr Cove Beach or Sand Harbor. If you’re up for a view from above, take the Heavenly Gondola Ride and see the lake from a new perspective.
Days 9-10: San Francisco
From the mountains to the city by the bay. San Francisco’s iconic sights are worth every stop. Walk or drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, or for something more thrilling, take a helicopter flight over the city for unbeatable aerial views. See the classic Victorian houses at Painted Ladies, zigzag down Lombard Street, and don’t forget to visit the Palace of Fine Arts and Golden Gate Park for some green space.
Days 11-12: Big Sur
End your trip with the rugged coastline of Big Sur. Drive over the stunning Bixby Creek Bridge, where cliffs drop dramatically into the Pacific Ocean. Stop by McWay Falls, one of the only waterfalls that flows directly into the sea, and enjoy some quiet time at Pfeiffer Beach with its striking rock formations. If you’re up for more hiking, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers excellent trails with more epic views of the coastline.
