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Ultimate 10-Day National Parks Adventure: Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon

Ultimate 10-Day National Parks Adventure: Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Majestic Yosemite Welcome

Morning
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen, located in the heart of the park. Afterward, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Yosemite National Park, taking in the iconic sights of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, and the awe-inspiring El Capitan.
Afternoon
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Curry Village Pizza Deck, where you can savor a variety of pizzas and mountain views. Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll to the serene Bridalveil Fall and then drive to the famous Tunnel View for a breathtaking panorama of the valley.
Evening
Dine in style at The Ahwahnee Dining Room, known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing walk around the grounds of the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, soaking in the tranquility of the evening.
Bedtime
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Giant Sequoias and Glacier Views

Morning
Grab a quick breakfast at Wawona Hotel Dining Room before heading to the majestic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Spend the morning among these ancient giants, including the famous Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the rustic charm of Big Trees Lodge Dining Room, located near the grove. Post-lunch, drive up to Glacier Point for a panoramic view of the valley, Half Dome, and the high country. Take in the scenery and snap some memorable photos.
Evening
As the day winds down, have a casual dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court, offering a variety of options in a relaxed setting. Afterward, take a short walk to the Sentinel Dome to witness a stunning sunset over the park.
Bedtime
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High Country and Waterfalls

Morning
Start with breakfast at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - Embers Restaurant, just outside the park's southern entrance. Then, drive up the winding road to Tuolumne Meadows, where you can enjoy the alpine scenery and take a short walk to the serene Tuolumne River.
Afternoon
For lunch, pack a picnic from Tenaya Lodge and enjoy it at the peaceful Mirror Lake, with the iconic Half Dome reflected in the water. Afterward, take the hike to the base of Vernal Fall via the Mist Trail, experiencing the refreshing spray along the way.
Evening
Return to the valley and have dinner at Mountain Room Restaurant in Yosemite Valley, offering a blend of local and international flavors. If you still have energy, take a post-dinner drive to Taft Point for a mesmerizing view of the sunset.
Bedtime
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History and Photography

Morning
Enjoy breakfast at Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite - The Restaurant at Evergreen, surrounded by the peaceful forest. Then, visit the Pioneer Yosemite History Center to learn about the early days of the park and the people who shaped its history.
Afternoon
Have a leisurely lunch at Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort - June Bug Cafe, known for its fresh, organic offerings. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Ansel Adams Gallery, admiring the stunning photography and perhaps even taking a photography walk if you're inclined.
Evening
Dine at Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite - Restaurant & Tavern, where you can enjoy a farm-to-table meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere. After dinner, relax by the lodge's outdoor fire pits and share stories of your Yosemite experiences.
Bedtime
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Hidden Gems and Relaxation

Morning
Start with breakfast at Yosemite View Lodge - River Restaurant & Lounge, situated just outside the park's western entrance. Then, take a peaceful drive to the lesser-visited Tuolumne Grove to witness more of the park's giant sequoias without the crowds.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the serene setting of Tuolumne Meadows Lodge - The Grill, where you can dine al fresco with a view of the meadows. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the meadows, keeping an eye out for the diverse plant and animal life.
Evening
Head back to the valley and have a relaxed dinner at Wuksachi Lodge - The Peaks Restaurant in Sequoia National Park. After dinner, take a short stroll around the lodge and enjoy the crisp mountain air before retiring for the night.
Bedtime
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Ancient Trees and Granite Spires

Morning
Enjoy breakfast at Wuksachi Lodge - The Peaks Restaurant before embarking on a day of exploration in Sequoia National Park. Begin with a visit to the impressive General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Lodgepole Deli and grab a picnic to enjoy at the peaceful Moro Rock. After refueling, take the short but steep climb to the top of the rock for a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape.
Evening
Dine at The Gateway Restaurant & Lodgepole Market and relax after your meal with a guided evening program at the Lodgepole Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.
Bedtime
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Caves and Cascades

Morning
Start your day with breakfast at The Gateway Restaurant & Lodgepole Market. Then, descend into the depths of the Earth with a tour of the fascinating Crystal Cave, where you'll witness intricate rock formations and underground streams.
Afternoon
After emerging from the cave, enjoy a picnic lunch at Moraine Lake, surrounded by the serene beauty of the park. Post-lunch, take a scenic drive to the stunning Grizzly Falls, where you can stretch your legs with a short walk to the base of the waterfall.
Evening
Dine at The Gateway Restaurant & Lodgepole Market and reflect on the day's adventures. If you're up for some stargazing, head to a nearby meadow or vista point and witness the brilliance of the night sky, far from the city lights.
Bedtime
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Kings Canyon Wonders

Morning
Enjoy breakfast at Grant Grove Restaurant, then visit the nearby Grant Grove to pay homage to the mighty General Grant Tree, also known as the "Nation's Christmas Tree." Take a peaceful walk among the sequoias and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Grant Grove Restaurant for a satisfying meal. Afterward, drive deeper into the canyon and stop at the Junction View for a stunning overlook of the confluence of the South and Middle Forks of the Kings River.
Evening
Dine at John Muir Lodge Restaurant and enjoy a meal with a view of the surrounding forest. After dinner, take a short walk to the Roaring River Falls and listen to the soothing sounds of the cascading water before retiring for the night.
Bedtime

High Sierra Serenity

Morning
Start your day with breakfast at John Muir Lodge Restaurant. Then, drive up to the high country and visit the picturesque Cedar Grove, where you can take a short walk along the river and enjoy the tranquility of the alpine setting.
Afternoon
For lunch, pack a picnic from the lodge and find a peaceful spot in Kings Canyon Scenic Byway to dine with a view. Afterward, continue your drive and make a stop at Grizzly Falls for a refreshing break.
Evening
Return to the lodge and have dinner at John Muir Lodge Restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. If you're feeling adventurous, take a guided night hike to explore the park in a different light, both literally and figuratively.
Bedtime

Farewell to the Sierras

Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast at John Muir Lodge Restaurant and take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. Then, pack up and begin your journey back to the city, carrying with you the memories of the giant trees, majestic canyons, and starry nights.
Afternoon
As you exit the park, stop at Hume Lake for a peaceful farewell to the Sierras. Take a short walk around the lake or simply sit by the shore, reflecting on the incredible landscapes you've experienced.
Evening
For your last meal in the mountains, dine at Wuksachi Lodge - The Peaks Restaurant and raise a glass to the adventures you've had. As the sun sets on your final day, take a moment to plan your next national park journey, knowing that the wonders of the wild are always waiting for you.
Bedtime
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