California, a state renowned for its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. From the towering sequoias of Yosemite to the stark desert landscapes of Joshua Tree, California's national parks are a testament to the state's ecological diversity. This 10-day road trip itinerary will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most iconic national parks in the United States.

Begin your adventure in Yosemite National Park, where granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a breathtaking backdrop. Continue to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its unique desert flora and stunning rock formations. As you travel through Death Valley, experience the extremes of the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. The towering redwoods of Redwood National Park and the lush rainforests of Olympic National Park offer a stark contrast, showcasing the incredible variety of California's natural landscapes.

With a budget-friendly approach, this itinerary includes a mix of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and local dining experiences. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, this road trip promises to be a memorable exploration of California's natural wonders.

Yosemite National Park

Day 1: Arrival in San Francisco and Drive to Yosemite

Afternoon: Arrive in San Francisco and pick up your rental car. Begin your journey to Yosemite National Park, a drive of approximately 4 hours. Enjoy the scenic views as you leave the city behind and enter the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Evening: Check into your accommodation near Yosemite. Consider staying at the Yosemite View Lodge for its proximity to the park entrance. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the nearby River Restaurant & Lounge, offering American cuisine with a view of the Merced River.

Day 2: Exploring Yosemite National Park

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Yosemite Valley, home to iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Take a leisurely hike to Bridalveil Fall, a short but rewarding trail.

Afternoon: Join the Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco for a guided tour of the park's highlights, including the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Evening: Return to your lodge and enjoy a casual dinner at the Mountain Room Restaurant, known for its hearty meals and stunning views of Yosemite Falls.

Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3: Drive to Joshua Tree National Park

Morning: Depart Yosemite and head south towards Joshua Tree National Park, a drive of approximately 7 hours. Stop for breakfast at the Black Bear Diner in Fresno for a hearty meal to fuel your journey.

Afternoon: Arrive in Joshua Tree and check into your accommodation. Consider staying at the Joshua Tree Inn, a charming desert retreat.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace, a local favorite known for its live music and BBQ dishes.

Day 4: Exploring Joshua Tree National Park

Morning: Begin your day with a hike on the Hidden Valley Trail, a 1-mile loop offering stunning views of the park's unique rock formations and desert flora.

Afternoon: Experience the Joshua Tree Open Air Hummer Adventure for an exhilarating tour of the park's rugged terrain.

Evening: Head to Crossroads Café for a casual dinner, offering a menu of American comfort food with a desert twist.

Death Valley National Park

Day 5: Drive to Death Valley National Park

Morning: Depart Joshua Tree and drive to Death Valley National Park, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Stop for breakfast at the Mad Greek Café in Baker, famous for its Greek-American cuisine.

Afternoon: Arrive in Death Valley and check into the Furnace Creek Ranch, offering comfortable accommodations in the heart of the park.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the Ranch's 1849 Buffet, featuring a variety of dishes to satisfy every palate.

Day 6: Exploring Death Valley National Park

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Zabriskie Point for a breathtaking sunrise view over the badlands. Continue to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

Afternoon: Explore the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and take a short hike to experience the unique desert landscape.

Evening: Return to Furnace Creek and dine at The Last Kind Words Saloon, offering a Western-themed dining experience with hearty meals.

Redwood National Park

Day 7: Drive to Redwood National Park

Morning: Depart Death Valley and head north towards Redwood National Park, a drive of approximately 10 hours. Break up the journey with a stop in Sacramento for lunch at The Firehouse, known for its historic setting and gourmet cuisine.

Evening: Arrive in Redwood National Park and check into the Redwood National Park Lodge, offering cozy accommodations surrounded by towering trees.

Day 8: Exploring Redwood National Park

Morning: Begin your day with a hike on the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, a 1.5-mile loop through ancient redwoods.

Afternoon: Visit the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and explore the Fern Canyon, a lush canyon with walls covered in ferns.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at the Palm Café & Motel, offering a menu of classic American dishes in a rustic setting.

Olympic National Park

Day 9: Drive to Olympic National Park

Morning: Depart Redwood and head north to Olympic National Park, a drive of approximately 8 hours. Stop for breakfast at the Samoa Cookhouse in Eureka, offering hearty meals in a historic logging camp setting.

Evening: Arrive in Olympic National Park and check into the Kalaloch Lodge, offering oceanfront accommodations with stunning views.

Day 10: Exploring Olympic National Park

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the park's most popular attractions. Take a leisurely hike on the Hall of Mosses Trail.

Afternoon: Explore the rugged coastline at Ruby Beach, known for its sea stacks and tide pools.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at the Creekside Restaurant, offering Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

As your 10-day road trip through California's national parks comes to an end, you'll leave with unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. From the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the lush rainforests of Olympic, this journey showcases the incredible natural beauty of the Golden State.