Road to the Sierras, RV Trip
- SAMPLE ITINERARY
- Jun 3
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 4
This is one bucket list trip that refuses to sit still. Kick off in sun-drenched Malibu, where a fully loaded luxury RV awaits. Then roll north — past golden hills, raw desert beauty, and straight into the legendary Sierra Nevada, stopping at some of the most jaw-dropping natural wonders on the map.
Keep reading to see just how much this serene escape has up its sleeve.
ITINERARY AT-A-GLANCE
Day 1
Departure from Malibu
Drive to Yosemite National Park
Stay at Sierra Quest Private Land for 3 nights
Day 4
Drive to Bass Lake
Stay at Bass Lake Ranch for 2 nights
Day use High Sierra RV Park to use the hookup
Day 6
Drive to Kings Canyon National Park
Stay at Downer Ranch for 2 nights (semi-private)
Day 8
Drive to Sequoia National Park
Stay at Sequoia Campground and Lodge for 3 nights
DAY 1-3: YOSEMITE
Yosemite National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes, giant, ancient sequoia trees, and for Tunnel View, the iconic vista of towering Bridalveil Falls and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome. The park's luscious nature and wildlife are a sight to behold. From the ancient trees to buffalos, coyotes, bighorn sheep and even the Yosemite Toad, there is always something to see! Explore the park on a hike, climb up the rugged landscape and get in touch with nature visiting this natural wonder!
WHERE TO STAY: Sierra Quest Private Land
The property has 55 beautiful acres that border the Sierra Nevada National Forest and Yosemite National Park, and has horses, chickens, ducks, geese, goats, bunnies, dogs, cats and a tortoise! With easy access to Yosemite National Park, this location is ideal to explore, rest and have fun!
WHAT TO DO: Highlights of Yosemite Ride & Hike
Explore the sights of Yosemite with an experienced, local guide. Don't just see the highlights, such as El Capitan and the waterfalls - your guide will show you those spots, but also take you to areas that the tourists don't go! Don't forget your hiking shoes - you will enjoy the breathtaking views of Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome or Top Point, all the way up in the mountains. Make a scenic stop for a tasty, hearty picnic lunch, and take in the sights, smells and sounds of the gorgeous Yosemite National Park.
Inclusions: Cadillac Escalade at disposal for 8h, park passes, private guide for the hikes and picnic lunch and gratuities.
WHAT TO DO: Photography Workshop
Ride through Yosemite Park and go off the beaten path with a pro photographer. Either in the early morning, catching the first rays of sunlight, or in the evening, watching the sky turn crimson red while the sun sets, you will take amazing shots, and learn the tips and tricks of the art of photography!
The Guide: Christine is a native Californian who has been shooting photos in Yosemite for more than 35 years. She is tremendously passionate about photography and nature, and made it her mission and life-long goal to inspire and teach the next generation of nature photographers.
WHAT TO DO: Self-Guided Hike through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Located in the southern portion of Yosemite, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. Hike through the trails, between the gigantic trees.
There are 3 main trails to choose from:
· Big Trees Loop Trail (easy) 0.3 mile (0.5 km) loop from trailhead, 30 to 45 minutes.
· Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (moderate) 2 miles (3.2 km) loop from trailhead, 1.5 to 2 hours.
· Guardians Loop Trail (strenuous) 6.5 miles (10.5 km) round trip from trailhead, 4 to 6 hours
DAY 4-6: BASS LAKE
Nestled within a towering pine forest, Bass Lake is surrounded by the Sierra National Forest, and is a true hidden gem at 3,400 feet high. Ideal for enjoying nature, fresh air, gorgeous sights and exciting water sports, the lake is a prime destination for adventures and relaxation.
WHERE TO STAY: Bass Lake Ranch (option 1)
Have access to 40 acres of rolling hills, just 15 minutes away from Bass Lake. This secluded camp is surrounded by gorgeous views, peace and tranquility. This camp has no hookups.
WHERE TO STAY: High Sierra RV Park (option 2)
The High Sierra RV Park is ideal to hook up your RV, and refill and empty your tanks!
WHAT TO DO: Hit The Lake
The Experience: If you want to have fun in Bass Lake, you have to explore the water! There are several options of rentals: from kayaks to Jet Skis and Pontoon Boats.
DAY 6-8: KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Kings Canyon National Park is adjacent to Sequoia National Park in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. It's known for its huge sequoia trees, and dramatic landscapes. Kings Canyon is also home to Redwood Canyon, the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world. In addition to Kings Canyon National Park's celebrated sequoias, this glaciated valley also features miles of hiking trails!
WHERE TO STAY: Downer Ranch
Downer Ranch is a 72-acre former cattle ranch that also operates as an animal rescue and sanctuary. Currently, 7 friendly horses live on the property. They love sugar cubes, and this is the way to win them over! This amazing and beautiful property has a neat history as well, including a cattle ranch, logging and even a gold mine dating back to 1902!
WHAT TO DO: Explore Kings Canyon
Your guide will meet you up early in the morning for a day of exploration and adventure! Kings Canyon is filled with outstanding sights. Walk through centenary trees, listen to nature, spot wild animals and much more! You will make a stop on a secret spot that goes out of the beaten path. This exclusive location is a well-kept secret of Kings Canyon, but your guide can take you there. On this tour, you will also hike through the park, so you can see it all!
Inclusions: Cadillac Escalade at disposal for 8h, park passes, private guide for the hikes and picnic lunch and gratuities.
DAY 8-10: SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK
This dramatic landscape testifies to nature's size, beauty, and diversity—huge mountains, rugged foothills, deep canyons, vast caverns, and the world's largest trees. The park is the home for gigantic sequoia trees, that grow up to incredible 275 feet. Enjoy the quietude, the fresh air, and the beautiful sights of this iconic national park!
WHERE TO STAY: Sequoia Campground and Lodge
The sprawling 25-acre grounds and riverside sites are an ideal environment for relaxing after a long day exploring the Sequoia National Park. The campground sits at just minutes away from the park entrance and offers full hookups for a comfortable stay.
WHAT TO DO: Sequoia Hiking Tour
Sequoia National Park is most likely one of the most iconic in the country. The gigantic trees will make you feel tiny! Ride through the forest, while your guide shows you the sights and tells you about the history of the park. Take a detour - escape the main roads and go on a hike through the dense forest. Look up, and all you see are the trees. Enjoy a quiet lunch, contemplating nature, and enjoying the sights.
Inclusions: Cadillac Escalade at disposal for 6h, park passes, private guide for the
hikes and picnic lunch and gratuities.
