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The Best California Road Trip to Yosemite – Paddle

The Best California Road Trip to Yosemite – Paddle

Plan an epic road trip to Yosemite

If you wish to jump into the car and explore Yosemite National Park This summer, we combine adventure-filled road trips from three California travel hubs (Los Angeles, San Francisco and Lake Tahoe). These memorable routes highlight some of the best hikes along the way, white water rafting and hidden gems, as well as information about the inside How to make the most of your time in Yosemite.

Of course, you can head straight to the park and spend the entire vacation there, but after all the eclectic towns and leisure opportunities in the Sierra Nevada, don’t miss the opportunity to slow down and enjoy the classic California road trip experience, full of outdoor adventures.

Explore itinerary

Mammoth mountain bike
Mammoth rides mountain bike. |Photo: Mammoth Mountain Resort

1) Los Angeles to Yosemite: Seralipe in the East

Recommended travel length: 8 to 10 days | mileage: ~800 miles

exist This action road trip You will explore granite wonderland from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park and back to granite wonderland. Hike in the shadows of Mount Whitney, ride on the single track of Mammoth Mountain and look for hidden hot springs as you venture through the majestic eastern Sierra, California. Then, spend a few days visiting the best attractions and attractions in the park and then on the wild level IV + Rapids Tulom River Rafting Trip Backyard in Yosemite.

South Fork American River Rafting
American river drifting Bring a paddle. |Photo: James Kaiser

2) San Francisco to Yosemite: Adventure Enthusiasts Route

Recommended travel length: 7 to 10 days | mileage: ~500 miles

this Adventure itinerary Combining some of California's best whitewater rafting experiences with Yosemite National Park. You will get your feet wet on the chute of the South Fork American River Rafting Trip and Tackle Tunnel The middle fork of the American River Wrap along the charming town along the historic California Highway 49. Mercen A few days before experiencing the wonders of Yosemite. The ending is Tuolumne River TripIt promises Rowdy, Level IV + White Water and the next night in the starry sky in the pristine wilderness.

Paddle Lake Tahoe
Standing paddle boards on Lake Tahoe. |Photo: Justin Anderson

3) Tahoe to Yosemite: The best Sierra Nevada

Recommended travel length: 7-10 days | mileage: ~480 miles

this Iconic California road trip Take you from the charming blue waters of Lake Tahoe to the Angry Falls of Yosemite National Park and then back through the Sierra Nevada to an epic loop. You will paddle over the crystal clear waters of Emerald Bay and spend a day (or two!) in South Fork of the American RiverBefore going around the quaint gold rush town leading to the park. Depending on how much time you have, plan to spend 1 to 3 days in Yosemite and explore the open roads of East Sera East.

For more road trip inspiration, check out our Itinerary library From some of the largest travel hubs in the West.

Cari Morgan Heashot

Carrie Morgan

Cari Morgan is the content marketing manager for paddles. She has managed the company’s blog The Eddy since 2014 and has been the main “voice” behind the brand’s social media space.

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