Bakersfield (California) | Kings Canyon National Park (California) | Las Vegas (Nevada) | San Francisco (California) | Sequoia National Park (California) | Visalia (California) | Yosemite National Park (California)
The following are California National Park Discovery tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
In the morning, after a brief orientation with your CEO the group will depart Las Vegas and head to Death Valley. You'll visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you'll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park's landscapes with visits to Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point. Learn about Borax mining and if there's time, stop at the sand dunes. In the evening, settle into your hotel in Bakersfield and get some rest for tomorrow's adventure.
Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Death Valley is one of America's most extreme locations - from sand dunes and desert, to badlands, towering peaks, and a basin that actually registers below sea-level, this is sure to be an unforgettable stop. Hottest. Driest. Lowest. There's a bit of everything here on the border of California and Nevada.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spend the day traveling to Kings Canyon National Park in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, famous for being one of the deepest canyons in North America, where the air feels timeless. Upon arrival, we will stop at the Kings Canyon Visitor Center to learn about the park's geology, ecology, and human history. Continue to Grants Grove to hike among the giant sequoias, including the world-renowned General Grant Tree, taking a moment to marvel at these ancient sentinels and the perspective they offer on our place in the universe. Next, you'll enjoy a 360-degree view as you head up the two-mile round-trip Buena Vista Peak trail to see the High Sierra and the valley below. If energy allows, loop along a nearby grove trail for a few more giants and a serene forest atmosphere, then find a quiet overlook or return to a familiar viewpoint to reflect on the vastness of the landscape and our small, awe-filled place within it.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walk among towering giants in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon, where ancient sequoias rise skyward in quiet majesty. Stand in awe before the General Grant Tree, one of the largest and most revered trees on earth, and take in the stillness of a forest that has endured for millennia. Winding paths lead you through these monumental groves, offering a powerful glimpse into the scale, history, and serenity of this remarkable landscape.Walk among towering giants in the Grant Grove area of Kings Canyon, where ancient sequoias rise skyward in quiet majesty. Stand in awe before the General Grant Tree, one of the largest and most revered trees on earth, and take in the stillness of a forest that has endured for millennia. Winding paths lead you through these monumental groves, offering a powerful glimpse into the scale, history, and serenity of this remarkable landscape.
Take a quick hike up to Buena Vista Peak, and experience some of the best views in the entire park. With minimal elevation change, you'll have plenty of time and energy to explore and take pictures along the mountain top. Hiking distance: 3.2km (2 mi) Elevation change: 125m (413 ft).
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Immerse yourself in Sequoia National Park, home to granite cliffs and ancient giant trees. Once you arrive, set out on a short afternoon hike to explore and stare up in wonder at the tallest trees in the world. Walk the half mile down to General Sherman to see the world's largest tree at 83 meters (275 feet) high. Trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Later, we head back to our hotel in Visalia.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walk amongst giants - giant sequoia trees, that is - in Sequoia National Park, where more than 8,000 colossal sequoias have lived for thousands of years. Visit the largest tree on earth, General Sherman, and gaze as far as you can up into the canopy. At the heart of the park, find the Giant Forest, home to half of the earth's largest and oldest trees.
Hike amongst some of the most impressive living things on Earth, giant Sequoias. This trip through the misty heights of the Sierras will take you through the home of General Sherman, the largest tree alive. Tour the other enormous trees and catch some amazing views of the mountains through the forest on this epic hike. Hiking distance: 12km (7.5 mi) Elevation change: 549m (1800 ft)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Hit the road again and travel north through the Sierras to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. Head straight into the park to take in iconic sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.
It's all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite today. From the valley floor, take the park shuttle system to one of the most iconic trails in the park. Hike alongside the Merced River to climb the Mist Trail, getting sprayed by the waters of Vernal Fall. See the water rushing over the edge before crossing the river and climbing the steps to Nevada Fall. From the top enjoy views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, and Mount Broderick. Later, enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan, or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley.
Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.
Take the storied Mist Trail as it traverses up the valley, with visits to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Return along the John Muir Trail. Be prepared for a long hike, and incredible scenery! Distance: 11.2km (7 mi), Elevation Change: 610m (2000 ft)
Leave Yosemite in the morning and drive across the Central Valley with the group to San Francisco. Join your CEO for a driving tour through some of San Francisco's most iconic highlights. We will drive to the bohemian neighborhood of Haight Ashbury for lunch, followed by a drive through the Golden Gate park. What trip to San Fran would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge? Depending on time, step foot on this famous red suspension bridge or find a great viewing point to take some photos. There is free time in the evening to explore the colorful Fisherman's wharf.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take advantage of free time to see all that the Bay City has to offer. Opt to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, chill out on Baker's Beach, take pictures of The Painted Ladies, go to a book or record store in the Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood, or grab some seafood at Fisherman's Wharf.
Spend a free morning in the city searching for the best place to have breakfast before departing. The tour ends mid morning.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their California National Park Discovery tour:
5101 California Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93309, United States
Bakersfield, United States
9000 W Airport Dr, Visalia, CA
California, United States-93277
40820 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644 United States
Oakhurst, United States-93644
905 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
San Francisco, United States-94108
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their California National Park Discovery tour:
Max 13.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group. Death Valley National Park visit. Sequoia National Park visit with hike to the General Sherman Tree. Yosemite National Park visit and hiking in the valley. Free time in San Francisco to visit famous landmarks. Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments (other than non-resident national park fees) with hiking and walking excursions. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Hike in Death Valley, Wrap your arms around the biggest trees in the world in Sequoia National Park, Witness breathtaking views of Yosemite National Park, Enjoy free time to experience the hip and lively city of San Francisco
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Yosemite National Park- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)- Yosemite Bike Rental (30-40USD per person)San Francisco- Cable Car Ride San Francisco (7USD per person)- Sunset Sailing San Francisco (Mon-Wed)
For this trip we use 15-passenger vans for up to 14 people plus the CEO/Driver. These vans are durable vehicles that allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.Each van has a front passenger seat and 4 benches that will accommodate 3 people each with mandatory seat belts to keep us secure and safe. No standing is permitted in these vehicles. This is not a physically demanding journey. There is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days to keep everyone more comfortable. Travelling can be difficult, with long drives and limited space in the van. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary. Despite some of the long days, most travellers feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture and wildlife are all well worth the experience!
Hotel (6 nts).
2 lunches
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.
1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao SwimwearNote: For evenings out in some cities there will be a dress code. If you wish to participate, please bring a nicer outfit for these occasions. We recommend a nicer pair of shoes and a collared shirt or blouse.
For evenings out in some cities there will be a dress code. If you wish to participate, please bring a nicer outfit for these occasions. We recommend a nicer pair of shoes and a collared shirt or blouse.
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary. Seasonal temperature ranges:March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C June – August: 0 C to + 35 CAdditionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Some private campgrounds and most cities have laundromats where you can buy soap and wash your laundry in coin-operated machines. Your CEO will advise you along the trip where you will be able to do your laundry.
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.