road trip ideas from las vegas to san francisco

34 Best Stops Between Las Vegas and San Francisco

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

How long is the drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

The direct drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco is 562 mi (904 km) , and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 36 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with San Jose , Fresno , Palo Alto , and Santa Clara , as well as top places to visit like Primm Mall and Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Nevada Western Town, or the ever-popular Seven Magic Mountains.

Top cities between Las Vegas and San Francisco

Santa Clara

Best stops along las vegas to san francisco drive, seven magic mountains.

Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Nevada Western Town

Alien fresh jerky.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

The World's Tallest Thermometer

Charleston peak winery, china ranch date farm & bakery.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Lake

Outlets at barstow, lake gregory regional park, elmer's bottle tree ranch, blackbird airpark.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Nature Center

Antelope valley california poppy reserve, tehachapi railroad loop, kern river outfitters, the big red barn, murray family farms.

Kern County Museum

Buck owens' crystal palace, visalia / sequoia national park koa journey, fresno chaffee zoo, forestiere underground gardens.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Tobin James Cellars

Gallo center for the arts, haggin museum, lodi wine visitor center, old sugar mill, top searches in san francisco, other popular road trips from las vegas, explore nearby places.

• San Francisco
• South San Francisco
• Point Richmond
• the Mill Valley
• Corte Madera
• El Sobrante
• Stinson Beach

All related maps of San Francisco

• Map of San Francisco
• Map of Brisbane
• Map of Daly City
• Map of Sausalito
• Map of Belvedere
• Map of Colma
• Map of Tiburon
• Map of Oakland
• Map of Emeryville
• Map of South San Francisco
• Map of Point Richmond
• Map of Alameda
• Map of Albany
• Map of Berkeley
• Map of Muir Beach
• Map of San Bruno
• Map of Pacifica
• Map of El Cerrito
• Map of the Mill Valley
• Map of Richmond
• Map of Corte Madera
• Map of Millbrae
• Map of Larkspur
• Map of Greenbrae
• Map of San Pablo
• Map of El Sobrante
• Map of Burlingame
• Map of Orinda
• Map of Stinson Beach
• Map of Ross
• Map of San Rafael

San Francisco throughout the year

• San Francisco in January
• San Francisco in February
• San Francisco in March
• San Francisco in April
• San Francisco in May
• San Francisco in June
• San Francisco in July
• San Francisco in August
• San Francisco in September
• San Francisco in October
• San Francisco in November
• San Francisco in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in San Francisco?

Get inspired for your trip to San Francisco with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day San Francisco Itinerary
• 2-Day San Francisco Itinerary
• 3-Day San Francisco Itinerary
• 4-Day San Francisco Itinerary
• 5-Day San Francisco Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from las vegas to san francisco.

Yes! You can drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco.

How far is San Francisco from Las Vegas by car?

The drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco is 562 miles (904 km).

How long does it take to drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

Driving from Las Vegas to San Francisco should take you 8 hrs 36 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

Gas from Las Vegas to San Francisco would cost around $49 to $115 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Las Vegas to San Francisco?

You could check out Primm Mall and Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Nevada Western Town, or the always popular Seven Magic Mountains!

What are the best cities to visit between Las Vegas and San Francisco?

People love visiting San Jose, Fresno, and Palo Alto, among others.

What's the weather like in Las Vegas?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Las Vegas in January
• Weather in Las Vegas in February
• Weather in Las Vegas in March
• Weather in Las Vegas in April
• Weather in Las Vegas in May
• Weather in Las Vegas in June
• Weather in Las Vegas in July
• Weather in Las Vegas in August
• Weather in Las Vegas in September
• Weather in Las Vegas in October
• Weather in Las Vegas in November
• Weather in Las Vegas in December

What are some other road trips from Las Vegas?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Las Vegas.

• Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive
• Las Vegas to San Francisco drive
• Las Vegas to San Diego drive
• Las Vegas to Sedona drive
• Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Las Vegas to the Death Valley National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Phoenix drive
• Las Vegas to Chicago drive
• Las Vegas to Greater Palm Springs drive
• Las Vegas to Page drive
• Las Vegas to Seattle drive
• Las Vegas to New Orleans drive
• Las Vegas to Tucson drive
• Las Vegas to Vancouver drive
• Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Mexico City drive
• Las Vegas to San Antonio drive
• Las Vegas to Denver drive
• Las Vegas to Monterey drive
• Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park drive
• Las Vegas to Williams drive
• Las Vegas to Nashville drive
• Las Vegas to Santa Fe drive
• Las Vegas to Laughlin drive
• Las Vegas to Moab drive
• Las Vegas to Santa Barbara drive
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City drive
• Las Vegas to Anaheim drive
• Las Vegas to Colorado Springs drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

California Dreaming: 10 Best Las Vegas To San Francisco Road Trip Stops

Take a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, explore iconic cities, and stay in comfortable accommodations near each destination.

Escape the bustling city of Las Vegas and embark on an unforgettable day trip , where the excitement of the city gives way to the wonders of nature. Begin the journey from the vibrant hotels of Las Vegas and traverse awe-inspiring landscapes, from the arid desert to the breathtaking vistas of national parks and picturesque forests. Each stop along the way reveals immersive experiences that will create lasting memories. And after a day filled with adventures, no better way to end than to unwind and recharge at one of San Francisco's remarkable hotels.

The list of accommodations was compiled by incorporating information from various sources such as travel websites, guidebooks, and personal suggestions. The selection process focused on identifying establishments that garnered positive reviews and were favored by travelers. Consideration was given to include a range of amenities and cater to diverse budgets and preferences, ensuring a wide selection of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts.

Red Rock Casino

The inn at death valley, quality inn bishop near mammoth, the westin monache resort, mammoth, murphey's motel llc, double eagle resort & spa, edgewood tahoe resort, hyatt place fresno, courtyard san francisco fisherman's wharf, cavallo point, red rock canyon national conservation area.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers breathtaking beauty and captivating rock formations. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of rock climbers conquering the mountains while enjoying panoramic views from higher elevations. With its proximity to Las Vegas, this nature haven is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts seeking stunning views and outdoor adventures.

11011 West Charleston Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89135

Related: Salt Flats & Sunsets: 10 Best Hiking Trails In Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a mesmerizing destination with diverse activities for all levels of adventure. From scenic drives showcasing ever-changing landscapes to short paths and extensive hikes, there's something for everyone to connect with nature. Stand atop the mountains for breathtaking views of peaks, gullies, and a sense of awe. Explore the park by car, bike, or foot, and don't forget to stay hydrated and visit the convenient Furnace Creek visitor center for amenities and souvenirs.

Xanterra Parks and Resorts

Highway 190, Furnace Creek, CA 92328

Nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Sierra region of California, the small city of Bishop boasts a prime location along the state's eastern border with Nevada. Positioned midway between the iconic Yosemite and Death Valley National Parks, it serves as a gateway to natural wonders. Visitors can indulge in the soothing Keough's Hot Springs, explore the fascinating Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, and embark on memorable hikes along the picturesque Little Lakes Valley Trail. Bishop offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty for all to enjoy.

Choice Hotels

150 East Elm Street, Bishop, CA 93514

Related: Here's Why Mammoth Lakes Is One Of Autumn's Best Getaways

Mammoth Lakes

Perched high in California's Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring surroundings. With breathtaking views in every direction, the town and Mammoth Mountain offer a gateway to a realm of otherworldly landscapes, from craters and hot springs to alpine lakes and tufa towers. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for hiking and biking, with options ranging from leisurely rides around the village to exhilarating climbs up to the majestic Mammoth Lakes Basin.

50 Hillside Drive, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Mono Lake, California, is a stunning destination with breathtaking scenery. It offers a great opportunity to stretch your legs and explore nature while on the road to San Francisco. The lake's tranquil atmosphere and unique geological features create a sense of peace and wonder, especially during sunset. Bird watchers will delight in the diverse avian species that call Mono Lake their home, adding to its natural charm.

51493 U.s. 395 Po Box 57, Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tioga Pass, the highest highway pass in California, offers a breathtaking journey through the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. As part of the scenic Tioga Road, this iconic drive showcases the diverse beauty of Yosemite National Park. From granite cliffs and alpine lakes to expansive meadows and evergreen forests, Tioga Road provides a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and road trip adventurers alike.

5587 Highway 158, June Lake, CA 93529

Related: Bang For Your Buck: Discover The 10 Most Affordable Lake Tahoe Resorts To Enjoy A Scenic Getaway

Lake Tahoe is a great spot to escape from the city and return to the beauty of nature. There are numerous stunning locations to kayak, swim, and hike, such as Emerald Bay, Fallen Leaf, and Sand Harbor, that are worth exploring. Heavenly Village is a fantastic place to dine and shop, adding to the overall experience. Lake Tahoe holds a special charm during summer , even though it is a great place to visit all year.

180 Lake Parkway, Stateline, NV 89449

Woodward Reservoir Regional Park

Encompassing a vast expanse of 3,700 acres , Woodward Reservoir Regional Park is a scenic destination located at 14528 26-Mile Rd., a short distance north of Oakdale along Highway 120. This expansive park offers visitors a picturesque landscape to explore and enjoy. From its tranquil reservoir to its sprawling surroundings, Woodward Reservoir Regional Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.

7333 North Fresno Street, Fresno, CA 93720

Fisherman's Wharf

Discover the vibrant ambiance of Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, a popular tourist destination offering a lively atmosphere for leisurely walks and enchanting encounters with sea lions. Immerse yourself in the city's captivating history while gaining insider knowledge from locals, who can provide valuable recommendations for exploring other fascinating attractions and indulging in delicious dining experiences. Families will delight in the family-friendly offerings, including the renowned Aquarium of the Bay at PIER 39, ensuring an unforgettable visit for all.

Courtyard by Marriott

580 Beach Street, San Francisco, CA 94133

Golden Gate Bridge

Undoubtedly the epitome of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge stands as an iconic symbol, spanning gracefully between the city's bay and the vast Pacific Ocean. A visit to this renowned landmark is an absolute must when in San Francisco, as its grandeur and breathtaking views never fail to captivate. Gazing at the shimmering blue waters beneath and beholding the bridge against the backdrop of the city evokes a sense of wonder, tranquility, and an overwhelming sense of joy.

601 Murray Circle, Sausalito, CA 94965

San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive Itineraries (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for incredible things to see and do on a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive? Here’s our ultimate San Fran to Las Vegas road trip itinerary.

San Francisco and Las Vegas are two of the most prominent cities in the Western USA.

With vast open roads, stunning national parks, and plenty of cool landmarks around California and Nevada, the best way to travel between San Francisco and Las Vegas is a good old-fashioned road trip!

Though it’s a quick and easy flight between the two cities, taking the scenic route with a rental car or campervan is an amazing way to explore California’s natural wonders.

We’re going to provide two different San Francisco to Las Vegas drive itineraries, both with epic scenery and unique attractions.

Both itineraries will begin in San Francisco with a visit out to Yosemite National Park following shortly after. The Sierra Nevada Mountains run through Western California, so from Yosemite, you’ll have to pick driving down the eastern or the western side of the mountains.

It’s not easy to crisscross across the massive peaks of the Sierra Nevadas. So we’ll list two different road trip routes that cover each side of the mountain range.

Of course, you can alter these itineraries however you want. But these two itineraries are designed to make your San Francisco to Las Vegas drive as seamless as possible!

Table of Contents

How long is a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive?

San francisco, yosemite national park, road trip itinerary #1 – eastern side of the sierra nevadas, mammoth lakes, sequoia national park, death valley national park, red rock canyon, road trip itinerary #2 – western side of the sierra nevadas, kings canyon national park, sequoia national forest, bakersfield, calico ghost town, mojave national preserve, seven magic mountains, wrapping up.

The most direct route for a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive is about 570 miles and takes 9-10 hours. However, this driving time doesn’t include any stops or detours.

It’s definitely worth taking the scenic route for your Las Vegas road trip!

You really can’t visit Northern California without seeing the magnificent Yosemite National Park, and there are plenty of other destinations worth visiting like Zabriskie Point in Death Valley, Mammoth Lakes, Kings Canyon, Tioga Pass, and the Mojave Desert.

So if you’re willing to spread your journey out into a few days or more, you can really see some incredible sights on the scenic route.

Our first itinerary goes from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and down the eastern side of the mountains toward Las Vegas. This is about 620 miles and 12.5 hours of driving time without stops.

The second itinerary travels along the western side of the mountains. This is about 750 miles and 15 hours of driving time without stops.

Both San Francisco to Las Vegas road trips can be modified to fit your time frame. You’ll really want to spend at least a few days in Yosemite, and you could easily stretch the drive out into a week or more. But it’s up to you!

San Francisco To Las Vegas Drive Itineraries

Let’s dive into these two incredible San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip itineraries!

Both road trips begin in San Francisco and then head to the world-famous Yosemite National Park. From Yosemite, you can choose to drive down the eastern or the western side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains as you make your way to Las Vegas.

If you plan to head further south, check out our list of the best things to do in Southern California !

Before you hit the road, you’ll definitely want to spend at least 3 days enjoying San Francisco. This captivating city offers a blend of history, culture, and innovation.

Known for its picturesque setting, the city is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, creating a stunning backdrop of rolling hills and iconic landmarks.

The Golden Gate Bridge, an engineering marvel, stands tall as an emblem of the city, connecting San Francisco to Marin County and offering breathtaking views. A boat cruise over to the famous Alcatraz Island and former prison is also a top attraction.

San Francisco’s eclectic neighborhoods each possess their own unique charm, from the bohemian vibes of the Mission District to the upscale boutiques and tech giants in SoMa (South of Market).

Renowned for its progressive values, San Francisco has been at the forefront of social movements and technological advancements, making it a hub of creativity and change.

San Francisco also offers amazing places to eat, from upscale restaurants to cozy food trucks. Travelers can explore world-class museums, such as the de Young Museum and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or wander through the iconic streets of Chinatown and North Beach.

For nature enthusiasts, nearby attractions like Muir Woods National Monument and the wine country of Napa Valley offer an escape to natural beauty. With its blend of rich history, forward-thinking mindset, and stunning surroundings, San Francisco continues to inspire and captivate residents and visitors alike, making it a city like no other.

Find more inspiration with our ultimate 3 Day San Francisco Itinerary !

• Distance from San Francisco: 200 miles
• Driving Time: 3.5 hours

After exploring San Francisco, drive a few hours east of the city towards one of the USA’s most famous national parks.

Yosemite National Park , located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is a breathtaking testament to the wonders of nature. Encompassing nearly 1,200 square miles of awe-inspiring beauty, the park is renowned for its towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and pristine wilderness.

The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a haven for a wide array of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, and rare bird species.

Visitors can embark on countless hiking trails, enjoy scenic drives, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors. Yosemite’s timeless beauty and serenity will undoubtedly leave a mark on you as you pass through.

Iconic landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls draw adventurers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. There are so many cool things to see and do, most of them centered around the Yosemite Valley.

If you make an effort to visit Yosemite National Park, it’s worth staying for at least a few days to really soak it all in. You can always get a self-guided audio driving tour if you’re not sure where to go as well!

From Yosemite Valley, you can decide whether you’re going to road trip down the eastern or western side of the Sierra Nevadas, as it can be difficult to drive through them. If you’re going east, we recommend taking the scenic mountain pass known as Tioga Pass, located in the eastern part of Yosemite National Park.

Situated at an elevation of over 9,900 feet (3,018 meters), Tioga Pass is one of the highest highway passes in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The pass provides a breathtaking and picturesque drive through a rugged landscape of alpine meadows, glacially-carved valleys, and snow-capped peaks.

Tioga Pass offers access to some of the park’s most iconic attractions, including Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted Point. The journey along Tioga Pass is an unforgettable experience, so it’s definitely worth taking if you’re choosing to head east!

Here is your first road trip itinerary route that takes you from Yosemite National Park, through the Tioga Pass, and out onto the eastern side of the Sierra Nevadas.

You’ll continue exploring the most beautiful areas on this side of the mountains, before heading southeast towards Las Vegas .

• Distance from Yosemite: 40 miles
• Driving Time: 45 minutes

Once you leave the Tioga Pass and exit the eastern side of Yosemite National Park, continue east towards Mammoth Lakes. If you’re driving in the warmer months, take the gorgeous, 16-mile June Lake Loop route on your way to Mammoth Lakes.

Once you arrive in Mammoth Lakes after driving the June Lake Loop, you’ll find that the area offers a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.

In winter, Mammoth Mountain becomes a world-class ski destination with abundant snowfall and a vast network of ski trails catering to all levels of expertise.

As the snow melts and summer arrives, the landscape transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping.

The shimmering lakes, such as Lake Mary and Convict Lake, invite visitors to relax by their shores or embark on paddling adventures. Mammoth Lakes also serves as a gateway to the nearby Devil’s Postpile National Monument and the Ansel Adams Wilderness , providing further opportunities to explore and connect with nature.

In addition to its natural attractions, Mammoth Lakes offers a charming mountain town atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events. The town’s village area features cozy lodges , inviting cafes, and a vibrant après-ski scene where visitors can unwind and indulge after a day of adventure.

Throughout the year, Mammoth Lakes hosts various festivals and events, celebrating everything from music and arts to outdoor sports and local cuisine.

Whether seeking an adrenaline-pumping escapade on the slopes or a serene retreat surrounded by nature’s beauty, Mammoth Lakes provides an enchanting escape and a memorable experience for all who venture into its breathtaking wilderness.

• Distance from Mammoth Lakes: 99 miles
• Driving Time: 2.5 hours

The next stop on your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip is Lone Pine. Nestled against the towering peaks of the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, the town serves as a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States.

One of the town’s main attractions is the proximity to the stunning Alabama Hills, a unique geological formation known for its majestic rock formations and stunning landscapes.

Alabama Hills has been a popular filming location for numerous Hollywood movies and offers endless opportunities for hiking, photography, and stargazing.

There are also numerous hiking trails and camping spots not too far from the town center. The town itself exudes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with charming cafes, local boutiques, and historic buildings that reflect the area’s rich Western heritage.

Whether seeking outdoor adventures, checking out Alabama Hills, or simply basking in the tranquility of nature, Lone Pine offers a memorable destination for travelers seeking a true escape into the wonders of the Sierra Nevada.

• Distance from Lone Pine: 10 miles
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

Sequoia National Park is another one of California’s best national parks. It’s huge, so the driving distance from Lone Pine to the park will depend on where you plan to arrive!

The 10-mile distance mentioned above accounts for traveling from Lone Pine to Mount Whitney , the tallest mountain in the continental US! This is a super popular hiking destination in California, so many travelers may want this to be their first stop in Sequoia National Park.

Other fun things to do in the park include hiking, camping, birdwatching, and checking out the massive trees!

Sequoia National Park is renowned for its massive sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, which stands as the world’s largest tree by volume. These towering giants, some of which are over 2,000 years old, create an awe-inspiring atmosphere that leaves visitors humbled and in awe of nature’s grandeur.

Beyond the majestic sequoias, Sequoia National Park encompasses a range of ecosystems, from rugged mountain peaks to lush meadows and cascading waterfalls.

The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an extensive network of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and scenic drives, including the famous Generals Highway, which winds its way through the heart of the park.

It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to stop while traveling from San Francisco to Las Vegas.

Looking to explore more of the Golden State? Check out our perfect 10-Day California Road Trip Itinerary !

• Distance from Sequoia National Park (eastern side): 108 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

Another highlight on the drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas is Death Valley National Park, a land of extremes and superlatives.

Covering over 3.4 million acres, Death Valley is the largest national park in the contiguous United States and boasts a diverse and mesmerizing landscape.

From the vast salt flats of the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, to the towering sand dunes of Mesquite Flat, the park showcases nature’s impressive sculpting skills. Zabriskie Point is a famous viewpoint in Death Valley National Park where colorful and eroded rock formations create a surreal and otherworldly landscape.

Death Valley is renowned for its extreme temperatures, with some of the hottest recorded temperatures on the planet, making it a true desert wonder. Despite its harsh environment, the park is home to a surprising array of plant and animal species that have adapted to the challenging conditions, adding to its ecological significance.

The park’s geological formations are equally captivating, with colorful canyons, rugged mountains, and unique rock formations like the Racetrack Playa, where mysterious moving rocks leave trails in the dry lakebed.

Visitors can also explore the historic sites of Death Valley, including remnants of old mining operations and ghost towns that tell stories of the area’s past.

Stargazing is a highlight in Death Valley due to its Dark Sky status, offering an unforgettable celestial experience. Get yourself a self-guided driving tour if you need a bit of guidance while exploring the park!

It’s also worth spending a few days in Death Valley National Park so you can stay overnight, stargaze, and soak it all in. There are some awesome hotels right in the park, or you could try camping in the wilderness!

• Distance from Death Valley National Park: 120 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours

Before you arrive in Las Vegas, stop at Red Rock Canyon which is located just west of the city. The canyon is characterized by its vibrant red sandstone formations, sculpted by millions of years of geological processes.

With its numerous hiking trails , visitors can explore the rugged terrain, discover hidden caves, and marvel at the colorful rock formations. The Calico Tanks trail is a popular choice, leading hikers to natural water pockets and panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip from a distance.

Beyond hiking, Red Rock Canyon provides opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The area is home to diverse plant and animal species, including bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, and various bird species.

The visitor center offers educational exhibits on the region’s geology, ecology, and cultural history, providing valuable insights into the area’s natural wonders.

If you’d rather just head right to Las Vegas without stopping, consider booking a 4X4 tour of Red Rock Canyon so you can still experience the wonders of this incredible place!

• Distance from Red Rock Canyon: 20 miles

Finally, you’ve made it to Las Vegas!

Also called “Sin City”, Las Vegas is synonymous with excitement, extravagance, and non-stop entertainment. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, world-class casinos, and dazzling neon lights, Las Vegas is a playground for adults seeking an unforgettable experience.

The iconic Las Vegas Strip is lined with opulent resorts, each showcasing its unique theme, offering everything from grandiose shows and concerts to luxurious dining experiences.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the city also boasts a diverse range of attractions, including high-end shopping, art galleries, and exhilarating outdoor adventures.

After completing the epic road trip from San Francisco, make sure you cherish every moment in the famous city of Las Vegas!

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Las Vegas, Nevada

Now let’s dive into an alternative driving route from San Francisco to Las Vegas. This road trip also goes from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, but then you’ll exit via the western side of the park.

This allows you to travel down the western side of the Sierra Nevadas. Though this route is a bit longer in terms of driving time, it offers a different array of scenery and attractions.

But you can of course combine our two road trip routes to create your own perfect itinerary. These are just suggestions about the easiest ways to get from San Francisco to Las Vegas with a bit of excellent scenery thrown in!

• Distance from Yosemite: 111 miles

So for this road trip itinerary, leave Yosemite National Park via the western side of the mountains where you entered. Then head south to Kings Canyon National Park!

As one of the least-visited national parks in the United States, Kings Canyon offers a sense of solitude and serenity amidst its stunning vistas.

The park’s centerpiece is the Kings Canyon itself, a deep and steep-sided gorge that rivals the Grand Canyon in depth, making it one of the deepest canyons in North America.

The towering granite cliffs, pristine alpine lakes, and lush meadows add to the park’s allure, providing lots of opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring the high country.

Kings Canyon is also known for its remarkable groves of giant sequoia trees, some of the largest living organisms on the planet. The General Grant Grove features the General Grant Tree, famously designated the Nation’s Christmas Tree, and the Redwood Mountain Grove is home to the Boole Tree, one of the largest sequoias by volume.

Visitors can also marvel at the roaring Kings River, which carves its way through the canyon, offering striking views and cascading waterfalls, including the magnificent Grizzly Falls.

With its abundant natural wonders and relatively untouched wilderness, Kings Canyon National Park remains a hidden gem, inviting explorers and nature enthusiasts to discover the untamed beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains.

• Distance from Kings Canyon National Park: 25 miles

Sequoia National Forest, located in the southern Sierra Nevadas, is a vast and diverse forest known for its towering sequoia trees and stunning alpine landscapes.

Although separate from Sequoia National Park, the forest shares the same region and offers a unique and equally captivating experience.

The Giant Sequoia groves within the forest, such as the Alder Creek Grove and the Freeman Creek Grove, house some of the largest and oldest living trees on earth, including the famous Stagg Tree. Visitors can explore these ancient giants through hiking trails and enjoy scenic drives that wind through the forest’s breathtaking terrain.

Beyond the sequoias, Sequoia National Forest offers a range of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and horseback riding, amidst its scenic lakes and rivers. The forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse wildlife and plant species that thrive in its various ecosystems.

The Kern River Canyon, a rugged and picturesque area within the forest, is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and rock climbing. For those seeking a quieter and less crowded alternative to the nearby national park, Sequoia National Forest provides a serene and enchanting escape into the wonders of nature.

• Distance from Sequoia National Forest: 111 miles

After a scenic drive through the Sequoia’s, continue on your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip. Your next stop is Bakersfield , a vibrant city situated in the southern part of California’s San Joaquin Valley.

Known for its rich agricultural heritage, Bakersfield is often referred to as the “Breadbasket of the World” due to its significant contributions to the nation’s food production. The city’s warm and sunny climate, coupled with fertile farmlands, has made it a hub for growing crops like almonds, grapes, and citrus fruits.

Beyond its agricultural roots, Bakersfield offers a diverse and lively community, with a thriving arts and music scene, historic landmarks, and a range of outdoor activities.

Whether savoring the local cuisine, enjoying cultural events, or exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, Bakersfield welcomes visitors and residents alike with its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

While Bakersfield isn’t one of the top destinations in California, it’s right on the way as you drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas. So it’s a convenient place to stop and there are lots of affordable hotels here.

• Distance from Bakersfield: 140 miles

Next on your road trip through Southern California towards Las Vegas is Calico Ghost Town . Located in the Mojave Desert, this is a fascinating living museum that takes visitors back in time to the era of the Wild West.

Once a bustling silver mining town in the late 1800s, Calico is now preserved as a well-maintained historic attraction, offering a glimpse into the rugged and adventurous days of the past.

Strolling through the dusty streets of the historic town, visitors can explore original and restored buildings, such as the schoolhouse, saloon, and blacksmith shop, all decorated with period-appropriate furnishings and artifacts.

Engaging live performances and reenactments bring the town’s colorful history to life, providing an immersive experience of what life was like during the height of the silver rush.

With its unique blend of history, entertainment, and scenic desert surroundings, Calico Ghost Town continues to charm and captivate both history enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking a taste of the Old West.

If you’re traveling around more of Western USA, here is our ideal Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip guide !

• Distance from Calico Ghost Town: 55 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour

The next stop on this San Francisco to Las Vegas drive is Mojave National Preserve . Covering over 1.6 million acres, the preserve encompasses a variety of desert environments, including sand dunes, volcanic cinder cones, Joshua tree forests, and vast expanses of desert wilderness.

Visitors to Mojave National Preserve can explore the stunning Kelso Dunes, where the shifting sands create a mesmerizing sight, or hike through the rugged terrain to discover hidden oases and ancient lava tubes. The preserve is also home to an array of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert tortoises, adding to its ecological significance.

Mojave National Preserve provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as camping, stargazing, and backcountry exploration. The preserve’s vastness and relatively low visitation rates offer a sense of solitude and connection with nature, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a remote and unspoiled desert experience.

Mojave National Preserve offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Mojave Desert, whether you’re reveling in the stark beauty of the desert landscape or marveling at the starry night skies.

• Distance from Mojave National Preserve: 42 miles

After experiencing the Mojave Desert, your road trip will curve north towards Nevada so you can make your way to Las Vegas. But another worthwhile stop lies just south of Las Vegas!

The Seven Magic Mountains is a striking and whimsical art installation that has become an iconic, Instagram-worthy destination.

Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the installation consists of seven towering and brightly colored limestone boulders stacked on top of each other, standing up to 30 feet tall. The vibrant hues of the rocks, ranging from neon pinks and yellows to deep blues and greens, create a surreal and eye-catching contrast against the stark desert landscape.

The installation serves as a playful and thought-provoking commentary on the relationship between nature and human intervention, as well as a symbol of the merging of the natural and artificial worlds.

So before you finish up your San Francisco to Las Vegas drive, stop here and snap a few photos!

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Las Vegas Itinerary

• Distance from Seven Magic Mountains: 26 miles

From the Seven Magic Mountains, it’s only a 30-minute drive to Las Vegas! You are now free to return your rental car and indulge in all the wonders and cool attractions offered by the famous city.

Whether you chose to drive the eastern route or the western route, or you mixed and matched the attractions on both road trip, any San Francisco to Las Vegas drive is sure to be stunning.

Try some of our favorite day trips from Las Vegas if you have some extra time in Sin City!

So there are plenty of amazing things to see on your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip! From Yosemite, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Kings Canyon national parks, to the unique towns and cultural stops in between, it’s an incredibly scenic route to take.

If you’re looking to explore more of the western USA by road, you’re in luck. This corner of North America is packed with beautiful drives!

Drive further north to California gems like Lake Tahoe , or complete a gorgeous loop drive around Northern California . Or head to the coast and road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway or down to Los Angeles .

Once you get down to Las Vegas in the desert, you can head east to the Grand Canyon or continue to explore Arizona in places like Sedona and Phoenix .

Or take on more of the iconic national parks in nearby locations like Utah . The options for exploration are endless!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Update)

25 Best Things To Do In Santa Fe, New Mexico (2024 Guide)

The 21 Best Things To Do In Richmond, Virginia (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

22 best things to do in charleston, south carolina (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in san diego, california (2024 guide), the ultimate 3 days in san diego itinerary (2024 guide), sheraton tribeca new york hotel review, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Your San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive: 4 Routes With Scenic Stops

If you are embarking upon a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive, the most direct route is 8.5 hours of mind-numbing interstate and asphalt. But the direct way isn’t always the best way. If you’re willing to leave really early, or add on some days, you can break up your drive with some cool stops that explore California’s natural wonders and singular historical sites.

We are nothing if not helpful here at California Crossings, so we have options for you. This guide will give you four different routing ideas which will get you from San Francisco to Las Vegas…eventually. They each have very different stops, and each has its own special season, but they all offer spectacular scenery. In fact, some of these routes make our list of California’s most scenic drives , which you should definitely check out for future road trips.

Of course, you can also reverse any of these itineraries and drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco. Better yet, do a round trip and choose different routing in each direction so that you can maximize what you see along the way.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

Prepare For Your San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive

If you need a rental car, find your best pricing by comparing all of the different rental car providers on  Rentalcars.com .

In addition to topping up your fluids and checking your tires, you may also want to bring a  roadside safely kit  which includes things like a warning triangle, jumper cables and the like. These kits also make a thoughtful, if tragically practical, Christmas or birthday gift. You should also pack a  plug-in cooler , which uses your car’s 12 volt plug to keep lunch items and drinks cold.

You’ll encounter both California State Parks and National Parks on these SF to Vegas driving itineraries. So, look into getting the annual California State Parks Poppy Pass (which is $125 and good at almost all CA state parks). But California also has 11 other discounted passes, so use our guide to  find a park pass  that is right for you.

You should also look into a National Parks  annual pass  ($80). In addition to the parks, it also works in National Forest fee areas and usually allows you to score a discount on campgrounds.

Google Maps is fine and all but sometimes an old school map is better for finding backroads and byways. We love the Benchmark California Road Atlas . It has a lot of detail, showing state parks and campsites as well as both paved and dirt roads.

#1: The Fastest SF to Las Vegas Route

• Active Drive Time : 8.5 hours
• Miles : 619
• When to Go : Anytime, but it’s hot in the summer.
• # of Stops : 3

Routing & Stops

San Francisco south on Highway 101 to south Highway I-5 >> Cut over to Highway 43 south to Colonel Allensworth State Park >> south on Highways 99 and 58 through Tehachapi >> East I-40 to Barstow/Calico >> Kelbaker Road through the Mohave Reserve and Kelso Dunes >> East on I-15 to Las Vegas

Taking I-5 and I-15 may be the fastest way to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas, but it doesn’t have to be boring. If you are willing to get up really early, you can make a few stops and still have time to get into Vegas for a nightcap. The following stops are either right on the route or a slight detour.

Visit Colonel Allensworth State Park in the Central Valley. This little known historic town was a social experiment developed in 1917 by Allensworth, who was a well respected African American civil war veteran. His vision was to develop a town specifically for African Americans where they would seek economic prosperity and control their destinies. The park shows an interesting side of California history and you can cover it in an hour.

Your next stop is Calico Ghost Town in Barstow. This kitschy attraction makes our list of favorite ghost towns in California and it has a series of oldy-timey western buildings, a mining site and old rail cars.

Detour south a bit and spend some time in the Mohave National Reserve . This is an off-the-radar spot just southwest of Barstow. Drive south-to-north through the reserve and be sure to take a detour to hike the Kelso Dunes .

Read More : Get the full downlow on all CA parks with our complete California State Parks list (with map).

#2: SF to Las Vegas Through the Sequoias

• Active Drive Time : 11.5 hours
• Miles : 670
• When to Go : Late spring through late fall
• # of Stops : 4

San Francisco south on Highway 101 to south Highway 99 >> Highway 180 east from Fresno into Kings Canyon National Park >> General’s Highway south through Sequoia National Park >> Highway 65 and 58 through Tehachapi and Barstow >> east I-15 to Las Vegas .

Sequoia National Park is famous for their giant Sequoia trees and Kings Canyon is the deepest canyon in North America. The park planners for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks very thoughtfully planned a scenic route connecting the two parks. The Generals Highway covers the best-of Sequoia National Park and Highway 180 covers the best-of Kings Canyon.

You could simply bomb through the General’s Highway and do a quick scenic tour of Sequoia National Park. But— there are tons of look-outs, hikes and redwood groves to explore. Drive the Kings Canyon road to Zumwalt meadow for a hike. Then double back to the General’s Highway and enter Sequoia National Park . Be sure to stop at the General Grant tree , which is one of the oldest living trees in the world. Then get in some views at Morro Rock .

You may want to consider slowing it down through this segment and spending the night in Three Rivers . There are a number of motels and inns there.

#3: SF to Las Vegas via Tioga Pass & Highway 395

• Active Drive Time : 10.5 hours
• Miles : 590
• When to Go : May/June through November
• # of Stops : 7

San Francisco east on I-205 and Highway 120 to Yosemite >> East over Tioga Pass on Highway 120 to Lee Vining >> South on Highway 395 through Lone Pine >> Highway 190 east through Beatty >> Highway 95 south to Las Vegas .

This isn’t a great routing for the winter, because Tioga Pass is always closed during the snowy months and the road conditions on upper Highway 395 can be tricky. But once Tioga opens (and especially in the fall ), this is a fantastic San Francisco to Las Vegas drive. The mileage on this route is is shorter than your other options and the views are far better. There are so many stops along Highway 395, we’ve written a whole 5 day itinerary for it.

As you drive over Tioga Pass , be sure to slow it down and take advantage of the pull-outs for viewpoints.

Nowhere will you see the majestic operations of nature more clearly revealed beside the frailest, most gentle and peaceful things. John Muir (more quotes here )

You won’t have time to do everything in the Eastern Sierras, but we suggest that you take a few quicker scenic stops and short hikes. Start at eerie Mono Lake , which is landlocked mineral lake with truly funky geologic tufas. Divert from 395 and take the June Lake Loop , which is a scenic drive that covers three lovely alpine lakes. Then stop at Convict Lake for the short 2.5 mile loop trail. The lake is famous for a shoot-out between some escaped convicts and the posse who perused them. But now it’s quite peaceful and it has killer fall color.

Spend the night in Bishop , where you’ll find a wide range of lodging and a lot of food options– we liked the Mountain Rambler Brewery for beer and burgers. In the morning, stop into the Schaat’s Bakkery , because they have amazing breads and sweets. Then visit the Laws Railroad Museum , which is a remarkably realistic replica town that represents this region in the early 1900’s. Once you get down to Lone Pine , take a drive into the Alabama Hills for the 1-mile Mobius Arch trail and some cool red rocks.

This routing will take you through northern Death Valley to Beatty Nevada. In Stovepipe Wells, stop at the Mesquite Dunes , then carry on east to the Rhyolite Ghost Town before getting to Beatty.

#4: SF to Las Vegas via Death Valley

• Miles : 644
• When to Go : October through April
• # of stops : 7

San Francisco south on Highway 101 to south Highways 99 and 58 through Tehachapi >> Highway 14 to Ridgecrest then Trona Road north and east >> Highway 190 east and south to Furnace Creek then Pahrump >> Highway 160 to Las Vegas .

This San Francisco to Las Vegas routing is a perfect a winter drive. It takes advantage of the warm desert weather, which is always the best time to visit Death Valley . Like the Eastern Sierras, there’s also a LOT to do in Death Valley. If you can spare two nights in the park, use our 2-day Death Valley itinerary and our hotel guide to build your trip.

If you only have one night to spare, use our Death Valley-to-Las Vegas day trip guide. It has a quickie tour of the park with several routing options to Las Vegas. If you are planning this drive as a one way car rental from San Francisco, Las Vegas is actually the closest airport to Death Valley .

This routing takes you through Ridgecrest, but before you get there, stop into Red Rock Canyon State Park . The short 1.5 mile Hagen Canyon trail is right off the road and has lovely red rocks of the sort you’d find in Utah. Hit up Ballarat Ghost town , which used to be an old mining supply stop and hang out for creepy Charles Manson. Stop at the Mesquite Dunes before spending the night in either Stovepipe Wells or Furnace Creek .

You should definitely book ahead for any lodging in the park as it’s very limited, or use our camping guide . It’s only 2.5 hours to Las Vegas from Death Valley, so if you get up early, you can see quite a bit of the park. Get up at dawn for Zabriskie Point , then head down to Badwater Basin for the Artists Palette Drive and either the Golden Canyon hike (shorter) or the Sidewinder Canyon hike (longer).

Regardless of which San Francisco to Las Vegas driving route you take, be sure to have fun in Vegas. You can keep on going with the nature theme and visit Red Rocks State Park or go all in with the kitsch and explore vintage downtown Las Vegas . Enjoy your road trip, and in the immortal words of Elvis– ““Viva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’ and your one arm bandits crashin’.”

Happy trails!

More California Road Trip Ideas

• Explore the whole state by taking these great CA road trip itineraries .
• Take 5 days to do the SF to LA Pacific Coast Highway drive .
• Or another 5 day trip from San Francisco to the redwoods in far northern California.
• Or just do a shorter Big Sur day trip .
• Take the scenic drive around Lake Tahoe and get advice on the best way to get from San Francisco to Tahoe .

Share this San Francisco to Las Vegas drive with your friends on Pinterest:

Share with your friends

1 thought on “Your San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive: 4 Routes With Scenic Stops”

Amazing help for planning a tour in California. Was very difficult for me to find suggested route from San Francisco to Las Vegas and here I found 4 options to choose from. Thank you very much. Hanna Orr-Ziv San Diego, CA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

roadtripfrom.com

Las Vegas To San Francisco Road Trip: Top 14 Tips

Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 569 miles of Las Vegas to San Francisco drive takes around 8 hours and 45 mins without stops.

This article includes 14 tips that turn your Las Vegas to San Francisco drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco

On the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top four hotels on the Las Vegas – San Francisco route!

• California Inn, Barstow: California Inn, Barstow is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip. Driving from Las Vegas to California Inn, Barstow might take around 2 hours and 20 mins . The California Hotel is a mix of value, comfort, and convenience. With family-friendly amenities and complimentary breakfast, it’s a setting for any traveler. The hotel also offers a pool and free parking. Check the California Inn, Barstow, one of the best hotels in Barstow, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Best Western Plus Hill House: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to San Francisco from Las Vegas is Best Western Plus Hill House. Located in Bakersfield, California, the hotel is 284 miles away from Las Vegas, and it would take 4 hours and 21 mins to drive. The Best Western Plus Hill House is a pet-friendly hotel near many popular Bakersfield attractions, including Rabobank Arena. Additionally, it is a short drive to many other areas and points of interest. The hotel offers complimentary continental breakfast and on-site restaurant dining options to provide the amenities needed for an enjoyable stay. If you want to learn more about the Best Western Plus Hill House, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Hyatt House Pleasanton: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Hyatt House Pleasanton. Hyatt House Pleasanton is located in Pleasanton, California, and it’s 533 miles away from Las Vegas. You can arrive there in 8 hours and 8 mins of non-stop driving. In addition, the HYATT house Pleasanton hotel offers travelers access to popular local destinations, including Alameda County Fairgrounds, Mt. Diablo State Park, and the Livermore-area wineries. This Pleasanton hotel is also an excellent option for business travelers, as it is centrally located to the corporate offices for Workday, Oracle, Clorox, SAP, and Roche. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hyatt House Pleasanton for more information.
• Hotel Emblem San Francisco: If you are taking a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, San Francisco, California, it must have a place you should visit. Plus, Hotel Emblem San Francisco is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 567 miles from Las Vegas, and it would take 8 hours and 47 mins to drive. The hotel is centrally located, making it easy to access the key tourist areas. The staff was welcoming and helpful. The hotel’s design and concept create a unique experience. The room was comfortable, and the service met our expectations. If you need more info about the price and availability of Hotel Emblem San Francisco, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

In this part, we explained four hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take Las Vegas to San Francisco route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Las Vegas to San Francisco. We have five restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

5 Best Restaurants On The Las Vegas To San Francisco Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip. This section lists five restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip with Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant. Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant is located in Barstow, California , 197 miles from Las Vegas. It would take 3 hours of driving. The restaurant was efficient in taking and fulfilling orders. The food was good, and the establishment was one of the only places open in Barstow at 8 pm. The Mango Chamoy margarita is recommended. For more information about Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant.
• 24th Street Cafe: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to San Francisco from Las Vegas is 24th Street Cafe. Located in Bakersfield, California, 24th Street Cafe is 285 miles from Las Vegas and would take 4 hours and 23 mins of driving. Bakersfield residents and visitors often flock to this restaurant for its home-cooked feel and variety of menu items. So whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a light snack, this restaurant is perfect for anyone’s taste. If you want to learn more about 24th Street Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Blues Cafe, Patterson: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Blues Cafe, Patterson. It will take 7 hours and 25 mins of car drive to take 485 miles from Las Vegas to Blues Cafe, Patterson, Patterson, California. The menu at the restaurant is extensive, and the service is quick and friendly. The decor features an eclectic mix of fun elements. The music playing in the background is good and not too loud. For more information, you can check Blues Cafe, Patterson, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Hap’s Original Steaks & Seafood: Hap’s Original Steaks & Seafood deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Pleasanton, California. Hap’s Original, located in downtown Pleasanton, offers excellent service and cuisine that uses locally sourced produce and fresh ingredients. Hap’s Original Steaks & Seafood is 534 miles from Las Vegas, and it would take 8 hours and 12 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Hap’s Original Steaks & Seafood, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Eight Am: If you enjoy dining, Eight Am would be an excellent choice in San Francisco, California. It’s 568 miles from Las Vegas and would take 8 hours and 52 mins of car driving. On the other hand, if you’re in San Francisco and looking for a great place to have breakfast, look no further than Eight Am. The ingredients served here are fresh and delicious, and the portions are large. Plus, the orange juice is made with authentic pieces of fruit – not from concentrate! If you want to learn more about the Eight Am, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 569 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a San Francisco road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Las Vegas to San Francisco. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The Las Vegas To San Francisco Drive

A unique experience awaits you in San Francisco. However, some unique destinations, like Barstow, California, are also on your road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the San Francisco route.

• Western America Railroad Museum: Western America Railroad Museum will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip. Located in Barstow, California, Western America Railroad Museum is 157 miles away from Las Vegas, and it would take 2 hours and 22 mins to drive. The Western America Railroad Museum in Barstow is a must-see for anyone interested in railroad history. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and train locomotives, and visitors can climb aboard some of the locomotives. The museum is an excellent stop for anyone traveling through Barstow. If you want to learn more about the Western America Railroad Museum, you can check it out on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, Bakersfield, California, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Las Vegas to San Francisco route. It’s 288 miles from Las Vegas, and it’ll take about 4 hours and 21 mins of driving. The live music added to the great ambiance while we dined. The service was good, and it was very family-friendly. The museum and memorabilia added charm to this unique spot. If you want to learn more about Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Stewart and Jasper Co Store, Patterson: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco is Patterson, California. And if you visit Patterson, California, we suggest you visit Stewart and Jasper Co Store, Patterson. You can arrive at Stewart and Jasper Co Store, Patterson, after 7 hours and 23 mins of driving. Stewart & Jasper is one of the largest almond farmers in California. With over 2,000 acres of almonds under their belt, they also have their processing and marketing facilities – making them one of the only companies in the state that can hull, shell, and process almonds in-house. In addition to their almond products, they also produce a variety of other items, including wine, dried fruits, and sweet and savory snacks. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Stewart and Jasper Co Store, Patterson, for more information.
• Ruby Hill Winery: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Ruby Hill Winery, Pleasanton, California, on the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip. Ruby Hill Winery is 531 miles from Las Vegas, and you can arrive there after the 8 hours and 6 mins drive. In 1885, John Crellin planted vineyards on a red clay knoll and named it Ruby Hill after the rich red soils found throughout the property. Today, this 150-acre vineyard is planted with eleven varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, and Petite Sirah. The vineyard is a popular destination for wine lovers and offers stunning views of the surrounding hillsides. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Ruby Hill Winery before going there.
• Alcatraz Island: Located in San Francisco, California, Alcatraz Island ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. You must take 8 hours and 49 mins of driving to arrive at Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz, also known as The Rock, is one of the oldest prisons in America. It is located on an island in San Francisco Bay and is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors to Alcatraz can learn about the prison’s famous former inmates and see how the American legal system has developed over time. If you want to learn more about Alcatraz Island, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Las Vegas to San Francisco

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Las Vegas to San Francisco drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip takes approximately 8 hours and 45 mins to drive. The driving distance between Las Vegas to San Francisco is 569 miles.
• If you want to make the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be two days and 7 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Las Vegas-San Francisco route, you will have to walk for seven days and 12 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Las Vegas To San Francisco?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to San Francisco. On the road, you can visit Barstow, California; Bakersfield, California; Pleasanton, California; San Francisco, California; and Patterson, California. Here we list five places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Las Vegas to San Francisco journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The Las Vegas To San Francisco Road Trip.

• Western America Railroad Museum: 157 miles / 2 hours and 22 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 412 miles / 6 hours and 30 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 288 miles / 4 hours and 21 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 283 miles / 4 hours and 28 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Stewart and Jasper Co Store, Patterson: 485 miles / 7 hours and 23 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 84.4 miles / 1 hour and 26 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Ruby Hill Winery: 531 miles / 8 hours and 6 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 45.7 miles / 54 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Alcatraz Island: 568 miles / 8 hours and 49 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 3.2 miles / 18 mins of driving to San Francisco.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. We have selected four hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To San Francisco From Las Vegas section.

• California Inn, Barstow: 155 miles / 2 hours and 20 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 414 miles / 6 hours and 28 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Best Western Plus Hill House: 284 miles / 4 hours and 21 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 284 miles / 4 hours and 28 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Hyatt House Pleasanton: 533 miles / 8 hours and 8 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 37.1 miles / 44 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Hotel Emblem San Francisco: 567 miles / 8 hours and 47 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 1.6 miles / 9 mins of driving to San Francisco.

Where To Eat Between Las Vegas to San Francisco?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Las Vegas to San Francisco drive, you can consider the five restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 5 Best Restaurants On The Las Vegas To San Francisco Road Trip .

• Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant: 197 miles / 3 hours to drive from Las Vegas | 424 miles / 6 hours and 52 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• 24th Street Cafe: 285 miles / 4 hours and 23 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 284 miles / 4 hours and 27 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Blues Cafe, Patterson: 485 miles / 7 hours and 25 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 87.1 miles / 1 hour and 32 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Hap’s Original Steaks & Seafood: 534 miles / 8 hours and 12 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 40.1 miles / 48 mins of driving to San Francisco.
• Eight Am: 568 miles / 8 hours and 52 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 2.6 miles / 15 mins of driving to San Francisco.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. We have listed four hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the Las Vegas to San Francisco drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Las Vegas to San Francisco road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: San Francisco Road Trip – 10 Things to Do

If you’re planning to visit San Francisco, you can check this video guide before your road trip.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Houston To San Francisco Road Trip: The Thrilling Adventure
• Phoenix To San Francisco Road Trip: Breath-taking Views
• Las Vegas To Portland Road Trip: Spectacular Views

Hi, I'm Ece. Join me in navigating memorable road trips around the USA, Europe, and Australia. I provide valuable tips and destination guides, sometimes enhanced by AI. Let's hit the road and make memories!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Road Trip Guide: Las Vegas To San Francisco Via Yosemite National Park

Explore from the desert to the mountains to the coast.

By: Jessica Foiles + Save to a List

If beautiful red canyons, ghost towns, alpine lakes, and the all-encompassing beauty that is Yosemite National Park sound like a trip you’d love to go on, consider doing a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco. Between two national parks, multiple national monument sites, vista points that bring tears to your eyes and delicious eats in the Bay Area, this road trip will leave lasting memories for a lifetime. Grab your hiking boots and extra batteries for your camera and let’s hit the road!

Start your trip in Sin City, but don’t spend too much time gambling away your gas money on the strip. Take a few hours and head to Red Rock Canyon , a short 30-minute drive from the Vegas Strip. Red Rock Canyon offers amazing climbing and hiking routes, as well as a one-way 13-mile loop road if scenic drives are more your thing.

Head north on Highway 95 and enter Death Valley National Park. There are many different routes to enter the park that can be found on the park’s website, some taking you past ghost towns and other points of interest, so plan your route to suit what you want to see. Death Valley National Park has such a surreal feeling to it. You can stand in the middle of a two lane road and look out in every direction and realize you are the only people for miles and miles. It is so crazy to me that a seemingly desolate place is home to so many different types of plants and animals. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional coyote (we had one walk right up to our car) and make sure to check out Bad Water Basin , the lowest point in North America. Dante’s View , Zabriskie Point , and Mosaic Canyon should all be added to your list of sites to see, but make sure you have filled up with gas (typically Stovepipe Wells has the cheapest gas in the park) because you don’t want to run out if you’re visiting the park in the hot summer heat. Oh, and if you see signs that say to turn your air conditioning off in your car while going up a hill, do it. We learned the hard way and almost broke down in the middle of nowhere.

After you’ve seen what Death Valley has to offer, head out of the park and towards Lone Pine, a small town located at the base of Mt. Whitney. If you’re feeling extra adventurous you can get a permit to climb to the top of the tallest mountain in the lower 48 . Since you walked across the lowest point in North America the day before in Death Valley, making it to the summit of Mt. Whitney the next day definitely gives you bragging rights. If you’re looking for a more laid back day, take a drive through Alabama Hills , an area of strange rock formations and hills where countless movies and tv shows have been filmed throughout the years.

Heading out of Lone Pine on Highway 395 towards Yosemite is such a cool drive. National Monuments, Mammoth Lakes , hot springs , and Mono Lake are just a few of the stops I would highly recommend taking. If you’re looking for a beautiful mountain town to hang out in for a night, Mammoth Lakes is it. While the winter brings in thousands of skiers and snowboarders, the summer shows a different side of the town. Mountain bikers and hikers will love this picturesque town.

Before heading into Yosemite, fill up your tank and your stomachs in Lee Vining. It’s the last stop before entering Yosemite National Park. Entering the park from the Tioga Road entrance is so beautiful that you will want to make sure you take advantage of the pull-off spots along to the road to really take it all in. I personally enjoy Tuolumne Meadows area of Yosemite over the more popular Yosemite Valley. Less crowded, no tour buses, no shops and museums, just you and nature. There are some great trailheads in the area, as well as climbing. If you’re looking for a great day hike, Clouds Rest is one of my favorite hikes in the park. The scramble at the end isn’t for the faint of heart, but it’s so worth it in the end. If you’re looking for more of “city in a park” feel, head down to Yosemite Valley . You’ll find restaurants, shops, lodging, tours, etc. and be able to see iconic El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome. If you’re up for the winding road, head up to Glacier Point and look out over Yosemite Valley. It’s absolutely spectacular!

From here you have several options. You can head out of the park (but not before checking out the Giant Sequoias ) and drive straight to San Francisco. Once you arrive, the adventure doesn’t end... San Francisco is full of amazing adventures nearby and some even right in the city. You could also stay south out of the park and head west all the way to the coast and hit up Santa Cruz for some surfing and beach time , or take highway 101 up the coast for some breathtaking views (check out the Big Sur to San Francisco section in this road trip guide for some awesome ideas). Either way, spend the next few days reflecting on the awesome road trip you just had while eating some delicious San Francisco eats!

Cover photo: Greg Balkin

Don't see your favorite adventure on The Outbound? Show us by creating an adventure.

Please respect the places you find on The Outbound.

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Be aware of local regulations and don't damage these amazing places for the sake of a photograph. Learn More

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

5 Outstanding Spring Hikes near Las Vegas

Before the mercury starts rising, here're five outstanding spring hikes to explore near Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Best Places to Explore the Outdoors near Las Vegas

The outdoor areas that lie just outside the glow of the Las Vegas Strip's neon lights.

Make a Detour to These Two Spots on the Way to Las Vegas

You'll enjoy your Vegas trip more!

Lake Mead: the Largest Man-Made Lake in the USA

For 6 months due to work I was living in a rather un-lively city in Arizona. I was grateful to discover Lake Mead my first weekend there.

Top 5 Locations to Explore and Photograph Death Valley National Park

Greg Harlow

When and where to shoot the best locations in Death Valley National Park, California.

• Local Adventures
• Tours and trips
• Camping Nearby
• Outbound PRO Membership
• Add your property

Mobile Apps

© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy

The Open Road Travel

• Oct 6, 2021

Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco (The Majestic Mountain Loop)

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco takes you on a tour of some of America’s greatest natural beauty spots. You’ll journey along the “Majestic Mountain Loop”, a trail containing Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks.

Travelling between two of the greatest cities in the United States, through some of its most popular national parks, this is the perfect journey for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

So, if you like the sound of this expedition and want to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the sights along the way, I highly suggest reading on.

A Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco: How Far Is It & How Long Will It Take To Get There?

The fastest route for a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco covers 570 miles and takes 8 and ½ hours.

This will see you leave Las Vegas on the I-15 going south and take it to its terminus in Barstow, California. You’ll then head west on California State Route 58 until you reach Bowerbank, where you join I-5 north, which takes you the rest of the way to San Francisco.

However, for those looking to enjoy a more scenic road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, along the Majestic Mountain Loop, you’re looking at 650 miles and 10 and 1/2 hours.

This route has you start out on US 95 going north, to the town of Beatty, where you’ll exit west onto Nevada State Route 374. This will take you across the California border and into Death Valley National Park.

When the road ends, turn left onto Scotty’s Castle Road, then right onto California State Route 190. Turn left onto Panamint Valley Road and continue following it when it becomes Trona Road. Take a right turn onto Searles Station Cutoff, before briefly going south on US-395.

Make a right turn onto Garlock Road and continue west when it joins Redrock Randsburg Road. Eventually, this will merge with California State Route 14, which you’ll take south, before heading west on California State Route 58.

Upon reaching Bakersfield, head north on US 99 and follow it for 215 miles, to Manteca. You’ll then go west on California State Route 120. When the 120 concludes the I-205 begins, and continues leading you west, before merging with the I-580 itself.

The I-580 will take you all the way to Oakland, where you’ll use exit 19A to join I-80. This will then transport you across the San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge, to your destination in San Francisco.

Best Place To Stop On A Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco – Fresno, California

Located at the geographic centre of California, Fresno is the 5th most populous city in the state.

With an abundance of museums, theatres, and historic buildings, as well as an ever-revolving collection of musical and artistic events and performances, it is a wonderful city with plenty to entertain you.

It is also located within 90 minutes of all three national parks on the majestic mountain loop. This makes it a popular location to set up camp for people who want to explore the parks but don’t want to stay in them.

When you combine its location, collection of attractions, and the fact that it is around the midway point of our route, it becomes the ideal place to stay on a road trip such as this.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Fresno – Doubletree By Hilton Fresno Convention Centre

The Doubletree By Hilton Fresno Convention Centre offers all the quality and comfort you would expect from such a reputable brand.

The rooms and public areas all feature a stylish, modern décor. Amenities like a flat-screen cable TV, desk, and free toiletries come as standard in each room, while all guests receive free parking and Wi-Fi.

In the communal areas, you will find luxuries like a pool, hot tub, fitness and business centres, plus multiple bars and restaurants. The property is also ideally situated, both for sightseeing and continuing your journey.

Best Time For A Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco

When it comes to selecting the best time to take a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, there is no better option than the months of May and June.

For starters, you avoid the heatwave of July and August that, along parts of the route, can become unbearable at points, especially in Death Valley. Travelling in these months can easily limit the enjoyment people have in the national parks, as it can simply become too much to bear.

While the months either side of this feature pleasant temperatures, late Summer and early Fall are a high-risk period for wildfires in this part of the world. This means you can risk parts of your route potentially being closed off if you decide to travel then.

By choosing May and June, you will experience great weather, without it getting too much or you running into a natural disaster. That means you will be able to enjoy every second of your trip, just as you have planned it.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Las Vegas To San Francisco

In order to get the most out of a road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco, it is important to know what you want to see along the way.

In the following section, I will show you all the worthwhile stops along the way. From the Majestic Mountain Loop to western towns big and small, you’ll find everything you need to fill out your itinerary right here.

Beatty, Nevada

Beatty is an unincorporated town that is often considered the gateway to Death Valley, which lies just 5 miles away. It boasts a great range of motels, eateries, and RV parks, making it the ideal place to stay when visiting the park.

In addition to its convenient location and abundance of amenities, the town is surrounded by attractions that make it an exciting place to stay.

You have the Goldwell Open Air Museum, an outdoor sculpture park. There is Rhyolite, a ghost town and former mining community.

Those who enjoy unique landscapes will enjoy Yucca Mountain, while Bailey’s Hot Springs and Bathhouses in Oasis Valley are ideal for those looking to relax.

Perhaps the most unique and popular attraction though, is the Nevada Test Site. A former test site for nuclear weapons, visitors can take guided tours around recreated towns and communities, creating a post-apocalyptic experience like nothing else you have likely ever experienced

Death Valley National Park

Covering over 3.4 million acres, Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the contiguous United States. The park’s Furnace Creek area holds the world-record for highest temperature ever recorded, at 131.4 °F (56.7 °C), back in 1913.

Death Valley is well-known for its vast and iconic wilderness areas, filled with deserts, dunes, and mountains. Despite the temperatures, you will still find an abundance of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, bobcats, coyotes, desert tortoise, mule deer, and over 300 species of birds.

It also features the lowest point in America, Badwater Basin, which is 282 feet below sea level.

The fact that the highest point in the lower 48 states, Mount Whitney, the peak of which sits 14,494 feet above sea level, is less than 100 miles away perfectly demonstrates how dramatic the landscape is.

Whether you want to take hikes off into the desert or enjoy scenic drives from the comfort of your air-conditioned vehicle, Death Valley National Park has numerous vistas that will take your breath away.

Ballarat Ghost Town

A former desert mining town, Ballarat is now essentially a ghost town, with only one permanent resident. It offers a unique experience, as you can explore an abandoned mining town that has its own general store to purchase souvenirs from when you are done.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park is a 27,000-acre state park, featuring buttes, canyons, cliffs, and stunning rock formations, in all manner of vivid colours. Over the years, the park has been used as a setting for numerous shows and movies, due to its vibrant scenery.

Activities like camping, hiking, and horse riding are all popular pastimes. Nature lovers will also enjoy a selection of wildlife that includes lizards, mice, squirrels, and a range of unique birds, such as hawks and roadrunners.

Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield is the 9th most populous city in California and an important location for both the energy and agriculture industries. While not known as a tourist destination, the city has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

For starters, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. There are a great range of museums exhibiting the history of the city, while a number of historic theatres give you chances to experience the local performing arts in iconic surroundings.

The Bakersfield Community Theatre is the oldest live community theatre in all of California. There are then a number of other historic buildings to explore, with locations listed as both California Historical Landmarks and on the National Register Of Historic Places.

Bakersfield is also well-known for its musical influence, with great legacies in genres such as classical, doowop, heavy metal, jazz, and rock. Perhaps the genre it is most synonymous with though is country, where it has even developed its own unique subgenre, Bakersfield Sound.

Numerous live events are held throughout the city, including everything from musical performances to fairs and races. This makes it a great stop even if you have visited before, as there is always something new to discover.

Sequoia National Park

The second oldest national park in America, Sequoia National Park is the southernmost of the parks on the Majestic Mountain Loop. Scenic hiking trails lead off into forests of immensely sized trees, past cliff edges offering stunning vistas.

You’ll find the highest point in the lower 48 states, Mount Whitney, as well as the largest living tree by volume known to exist in the world, The General Sherman.

Other popular attractions include exploring the Crystal Cave, climbing Moro Rock, and driving the General’s Highway and its Log Tunnel.

Wildlife fans will be thrilled by what they encounter, with deer and hundreds of species of birds abundant in the park. Lucky visitors may also be greeted by bears, bighorn sheep, and foxes, which all reside throughout the forests.

Kings Canyon National Park

The youngest of the three parks of the Majestic Mountain Loop, Kings Canyon is a similar size to Sequoia National Park and neighbours it immediately to the north. This gives them the unique distinction of being the only national parks in the US you can drive between internally.

While the forests continue into Kings Canyon National Park, this park is better known for a landscape that includes cascading rivers and waterfalls, mountains and canyons, complex cave systems, and beautiful lakes surrounded by groves of trees.

With walls reaching up to 8,000 feet high, Kings Canyon is arguably the deepest gorge in America. It also features the second-largest giant Sequoia in the world, the General Grant, which was christened the “Nations Christmas Tree” by former US President Calvin Coolidge.

Black bears are abundant in the park, making Kings Canyon one of the best chances you have of seeing them in the wild anywhere in America. Other animals commonly seen in the park include bighorn sheep, deer, marmots, and more than 200 species of birds.

Sierra National Forest

Sierra National Forest breaks up the national parks of the Majestic Mountain Loop, covering the 1.3 million acres between Kings Canyon and Yosemite.

The forest is filled with hundreds of miles of trails, winding through beautiful lakes, towering peaks, and wilderness areas, while offering magnificent views.

During the warmer months, it is a popular destination for boating, camping, climbing, fishing, and hiking. Then, in the winter, visitors can indulge in a spot of skiing, at the China Peak ski resort.

Yosemite National Park

The 3rd oldest national park in the United States, Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular natural attractions in the world.

It is well-known for its towering waterfalls and mountain peaks, including one of the tallest falls in North America, the 2425-foot Yosemite Falls. Then beneath them you have the incredible Yosemite Valley, filled with galleries, museums, lodges, restaurants, stores, and hotels.

Around it, there are numerous meadows and lakes that are home to a collection of wildlife including bears, bighorn sheep, deer, and over 250 species of birds.

Attractions like the Sugar Pine Railroad and Wawona Pioneer Village will give visitors a glimpse into life in the area in bygone eras. Meanwhile, hikes to Glacier Point and through Mariposa Grove will allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Those who prefer to drive as opposed to walk can tour the scenic Tioga Road, as well as Tunnel View overlook, one of the most beautiful and photographed vistas in the world.

Modesto, California

The 18th most populous city in the state, Modesto is located roughly in the middle of Fresno, Sacramento, and San Francisco, making it the heart of central California. It is well known for its natural initiatives, which include tree planting and farm to table movements.

Its greatest claim to fame is being the birthplace of the rockabilly music genre, which started with the “Hillbilly Boogie” of the 1930’s.

It is also the hometown of legendary director George Lucas, with George Lucas Plaza featuring a bronze statue that honours him and his movie “American Graffiti”.

Other popular attractions in Modesto include the McHenry Mansion and Museum, Hawk Castle, the Gallo Centre For The Arts, John Thurman Field, and The State Theatre.

There are also a selection of other historic buildings and neighbourhoods, many of which feature in the yearly Architectural Festival.

In recent years, Downtown Modesto has also been completely revitalised. With countless restaurants and nightlife venues, multiple farmers markets each week, and a monthly Art Walk, it is a great stop for anyone looking to experience life in a smaller American city.

Oakland, California

Located on the east side of the San Francisco Bay, Oakland is the 8th most populous city in California. While often overlooked, due to its proximity to the more popular San Francisco, it has a great deal to offer tourists.

The city is abundant with arts, culture, and music venues, ensuring its attractions appeal to a range of visitors as diverse as its residents. From museums and theatres to clubs and music venues, Oakland has it all to offer a truly varied destination.

Perhaps the main reason it has seen a greater increase in tourism than any other city in the western United States though, is its affordability. With prices considerably lower than across the bay, it offers people the chance to experience a similar culture, for only a fraction of the price.

A road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco is a truly wonderous adventure, taking you between two of the most unique, exciting cities in the country.

Travelling along the Majestic Mountain Loop, you will get to experience some of the most stunning national parks America has to offer. With very little space between them, it makes a long journey absolutely fly by, as there is never a time when you don’t have something to explore.

This article should have given you everything you need to plan out your stops, to make sure you get maximum value out of your route. All that’s left is to start getting things booked, so you can look forward to hitting the open road as soon as possible.

• Guide To North America
• World Traveller Guide
• Road Trip Guides

Recent Posts

Best Areas To Stay In San Francisco

Road Trip From San Francisco To San Diego

The 10 Best Things To Do In San Francisco

• EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP

• Inspiration
• Packing Lists
• Road Trip Advice

California , Nevada , Road Trip Itineraries , United States

13 fantastic stops on a san francisco to las vegas road trip.

California has plenty of fun road trip destinations without the state itself, but what if you’re looking for a little glitz and glam on your next vacation? That’s why a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip is the perfect one to go on. You’ll see some of the best parts of California, visit stunning national parks, and end up in the never-sleeping Sin City.

Many people don’t realize how easy it is to drive to Las Vegas from San Francisco and end up flying, but I highly recommend going via car if you have the time. I’ve road-tripped all around California over the years and am always finding a new area to explore. In fact, it’s one of my favorite areas to drive around in the country, and I’ve been to quite a few states.

If you don’t know where to start, this article will help answer any questions you might have about going on a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas. I also include a helpful map so you can visually see your stops, list all my favorite areas to visit, and even recommend some good places to stop for the night so you don’t do too much driving.

Table of Contents

Tips for a San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive

Planning a trip of this magnitude can be a pain; that’s why I’ve compiled a few tips to keep top of mind when planning your road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas. These key insights will not only help you plan a scenic journey but also ensure a successful drive from the Golden City to Sin City.

How Long Is the Road Trip From San Francisco to Las Vegas?

Your trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas will vary in length depending on the route you take, the traffic conditions, the stops you want to make, and how much time you spend at each stop.

The most direct route takes you via Interstate 5 and then Interstate 15. It covers about 600 miles and typically takes around eight to ten hours of driving time . However, you should keep in mind that this is without factoring in any breaks or stops along the way.

If you choose to take the more scenic route through Yosemite National Park with additional stops, the total travel time increases significantly. I highly recommend that you plan for at least a few days up to a week on the road to fully enjoy the journey, explore the best attractions, and take in the sights along the route.

Another beautiful trip is driving from San Francisco to Sequoia National Park .

Can You Drive From San Francisco to Las Vegas in One Day?

It is possible to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas in one day, but it would be a long and tedious trip because of the distance. Remember that if you take the direct route, you’ll cover nearly 600 miles without stopping to rest, eat, or go sightseeing.

Driving this distance in one day would mean spending a significant amount of time behind the wheel, which only leads to fatigue and poses safety concerns. Before deciding to drive for almost half the day, it’s important to consider your comfort and capability for long drives and prioritize safety.

Personally, I would do this road trip to Las Vegas in three full days .

What’s the Best Time To Do a San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip?

The best time to do a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Summer brings scorching temperatures, and it is unpleasant to visit desert areas like Death Valley and Red Rock Canyon. Believe me – I was last at Death Valley National Park in the winter, and it was almost 100!

On the contrary, bitterly cold winter temperatures make it impossible to explore places in mountainous areas like the Tioga Pass, as they will be closed.

Ultimately, the best time to go on a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas is in the spring and fall . During this time, temperatures are mild and pleasant, and there are plenty of things to do. Blooming wildflowers in spring and the vibrant fall foliage also add to the scenic natural beauty.

Where To Fly In and Out of for Your San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip

To start your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip, you’ll likely have to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) . It’s a major international airport that offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient starting point for your trip.

At the end of your Las Vegas road trip from San Francisco, you’ll fly out of McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas. The city is a major travel destination and entertainment hub, which is why LAS offers numerous flights to various destinations across the country.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

Here is a list of the scenic stops I recommend for your road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas. Feel free to add or remove any of these pit stops to correspond with how much time you have and the sights you’d like to see.

• Yosemite National Park
• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
• Mammoth Lakes
• Sierra National Forest
• Kings Canyon National Park
• Sequoia National Park
• Death Valley
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
• Seven Magic Mountains

San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Map

13 Stops on a San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip

There are plenty of scenic spots and sightseeing opportunities between San Francisco and Las Vegas. Here are my 13 favorite spots that you should visit during your road trip.

1. Oakland, California

Located across the bay from San Francisco, Oakland has diverse cultural scenery, beautiful waterfront parks like Lake Merritt, and historic neighborhoods. This vibrant city is an ideal place to make your first stop, as it has a variety of clothing boutiques, restaurants, bars, and art galleries. I first visited the area when my friend lived here for a bit, and I loved walking around the lake and then getting Thai food for lunch.

Oakland was initially inhabited by Costanoan Native Americans during the time of Spanish exploration in the 19th century. That is why the city has an abundance of restored Victorian-style architecture and Art Deco movie theaters, which rose in popularity in the early 20th century.

If you are looking for things to do, there are plenty of things to do in Oakland. Take some time to enjoy leisurely strolls or hikes through giant redwoods at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park . If you’re an animal lover, head to the Oakland Zoo , home to over 850 species of native and exotic animals.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

2. Modesto, California

This central California city is known for its agricultural heritage, so it’s worth a stop when driving from San Francisco to Las Vegas. You can read up on local history at the McHenry Museum , enjoy walking through scenic parks, and experience a bit of small-town charm. Although it’s a quaint town, Modesto offers many modern amenities, which is why it’s among the best places to live in the United States.

Modesto is surprisingly more famous for being the birthplace of renowned filmmaker George Lucas, who is responsible for major movie franchises like Star Wars and Indiana Jones. That’s why you’ll find several cinemas in this town, including the State Theater of Modesto and the Brenden Theaters.

You’ll find plenty to do here. Modesto offers museums, art galleries, and amusement parks that are worth exploring. Another must-see is the Modesto Certified Farmers’ Market , which is open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m . 

Here, you’ll find numerous vendors selling artisanal goods, ranging from street food to candles, pet products, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Another fun idea is driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles if you want a shorter trip. You can also drive from Seattle to Las Vegas .

3. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is a natural wonder characterized by towering granite cliffs, lush meadows, cascading waterfalls like Yosemite Falls, and endless outdoor activities. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts outstanding scenery across its varied landscapes. You can go from high snow-capped peaks to wild forests, lakes, and waterfalls all in one day.

Thanks to its rich human history and natural wonders like sequoia trees, Yosemite National Park was established in 1890 by an act of Congress. Efforts made by naturalist John Muir and magazine writer and editor Robert Underwood Johnson are among the top reasons for the park’s establishment.

Many people take a road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park , and it’s not hard to see why. In Yosemite, you’ll have tons of things to see and do. A full-day Yosemite National Park tour will guide you through sites like the Tuolumne Grove, the Half Dome, and Yosemite’s natural landmarks such as El Capitan.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

4. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Located within Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, which are some of the largest trees in the world. These include the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. Two of the trees in Mariposa Grove are among the world’s largest giant sequoias, so don’t forget to take photos. 

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the first place in the world to be set aside for preservation and recreational use. Most of the trees in the grove are over 2,000 years old , so you’ll definitely want to see this on your road trip to Las Vegas from San Francisco.

The most famous giant sequoias include the Washington Tree, which is the largest tree in the grove, and the second largest, the Grizzly Giant. If you’re looking for the tallest tree in the grove, look out for the Columbia Tree, standing at 285 feet tall.

Take a Yosemite highlights tour and explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in an air-conditioned vehicle. This tour has multiple stops, including must-see attractions within the park, such as Bridalveil Falls, the Turtleback Dome, and Glacier Point.

Make sure to buy your America the Beautiful pass ahead of time so you can easily enter all the national parks for a low price.

You may also be interested in a San Francisco to San Diego road trip .

5. Mono Lake, California

Witness unique sights at Mono Lake, an ancient saltwater lake with surreal limestone formations called tufa towers. Spend time bird-watching endemic species, such as California gulls and eared grebes. The lake is situated in Mono County, and it was formed about 760,000 years ago after an eruption of the Long Valley Caldera – talk about a natural relic!

Marvel at the freshwater sourced from melting ice caps atop the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains. The white-washed tufa towers are also a sight to behold. They contain calcareous (calcium carbonate) deposits, which happens when freshwater flows down through lake rocks and saline lake water.

Love national parks? You’ll love going on a San Francisco to Yosemite road trip .

6. Mammoth Lakes, California

Nestled in the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, Mammoth Lakes has year-round outdoor activities for every thrill-seeking adventurer. While I love going on a Lake Tahoe road trip from LA , this is an equally stunning one.

In winter, it’s a ski and snowboard destination with stunning backdrops of snow-capped peaks. During warmer months, Mammoth Lakes are ideal for hiking, fishing, rock climbing , and enjoying lush alpine beauty.

For those fascinated by history, Mammoth Lakes won’t disappoint. Their history can be traced back to a handful of miners who discovered gold deposits near the site. By the 1870s, word had gotten out, and a gold rush began. It wasn’t until the 1890s that Mammoth Lakes transformed from a mining outpost into the outdoor recreational hub we see today.

An equally stunning trip is driving from San Francisco to Big Sur .

7. Sierra National Forest

Encompassing a diverse range of landscapes, the Sierra National Forest offers alpine lakes, towering forests, and stunning mountainous vistas. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking, camping, and water activities.

Located on the west side of the central Sierra Nevada mountain range, the site was home to the Native American people for at least 13,500 years. The geology of the Sierra National Forest is dominated by gigantic bedrock and volcanic rock, while the ecosystem supports trees like oak woodlands and Giant Sequoias.

You’ll find several hiking trails and lakes to explore. Some wildlife to keep your eyes open for include the Pacific fisher, mountain yellow-legged frogs, and slender salamanders.

8. Kings Canyon National Park

Famous for its deep glacier-carved canyons, Kings Canyon National Park boasts impressive viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and Giant Sequoia groves. While this is one of the least visited parks in the state, I think it’s a really unique place to stop. It’s a paradise for avid hikers and nature lovers seeking an escape into alpine scenery.

The park also has an impressive history. In 1940, former President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Congress created a new national park that included the glacially-formed Kings Canyons. As it is today, Kings Canyon National Park is a result of a merger with the General Grant National Park.

Begin your exploration of the national park at the Kings Canyon Visitor Center , where you can purchase maps, books, and wilderness permits. You’ll also find ranger programs that give insights into the history and ecosystem of the area. I always start at visitor centers to confirm the hikes I want to do are safe at that time, as sometimes they might be unstable if they just had a storm pass through.

9. Sequoia National Park

Home to the General Sherman Tree , the world’s largest tree by volume, Sequoia National Park showcases the towering Giant Sequoias along with dramatic landscapes. These range from caves to alpine lakes, giant boulders, and pristine wilderness.

Established on September 25, 1890, Sequoia National Park is the second oldest national park in the United States after Yellowstone National Park and is well worth a visit. The park was created with the intention of protecting the Giant Sequoias from logging. It was the first national park established to protect a living organism.

Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are jointly managed by the National Park Service . They offer a range of vegetation, from woodlands to alpine forests. These ecosystems support various wildlife, such as black bears, coyotes, and woodpeckers. In addition to wildlife spotting, you can enjoy hiking the Morro Rock Trail, driving through the Tunnel Log, and exploring the Crystal Cave.

10. Death Valley, California

One of the hottest and driest places on Earth, Death Valley features vast salt flats, unique rock formations like Artist’s Palette, and mesmerizing desert landscapes. These include Badwater Basin , which is the lowest point in North America (I recommend visiting and getting a picture with the sign, as I did above).

Known for the highest temperatures ever recorded in the world, Death Valley got its name from a group of European Americans who were seeking the gold fields of California. The area saw numerous towns spring up between the late 19th and 20th centuries, although they were short-lived.

Some of my favorite spots in Death Valley include the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and the Ubehebe Crater . I also recommend hiking trails like the Mosaic Canyon Trail and historical sites like the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns .

I was last here in March, and even then, temperatures were in the 90s! If you plan on hiking, you’ll want to start as early as possible and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as there’s little shade in the area.

Love this itinerary? You’ll also want to check out the scenic drive from San Francisco to Seattle .

11. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Located just outside Las Vegas, this area boasts dramatic red rock formations, scenic driving routes, and hiking trails that showcase the stunning geology of the Mojave Desert. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is famous for its vibrant red cliffs made of Aztec Sandstone. This is a popular day trip from Las Vegas, and I’ve done it before when I need a break from the glitz of the city.

The geological history of Red Rock Canyon will leave you in awe. About 600 million years ago, this land was under a deep ocean basin, with its coast in present-day Western Utah. Limestone and dolomite accumulated in this basin, leaving fossilized sea life in the sandstone.

There are a number of hiking trails in Red Rock Canyon that take you through the rugged red landscapes, creeks, and cliffs boasting historical rock art. Again, I recommend starting your hike early since the desert’s heat can be relentless.

12. Seven Magic Mountains, Las Vegas

Add some color to your trip by making a stop at this modern art installation in the desert. The Seven Magic Mountains consist of vibrant stacked boulders that contrast with the surrounding landscape, creating a captivating and Instagram-worthy sight.

Created by famed Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the Seven Magic Mountains consist of seven dayglow totems reaching about 30 to 35 feet. The towers were built in stages from December 2015. Since then, Seven Magic Mountain has hosted over two million visitors, and for good reason.

I last visited this about four years ago, and at that point, it was pretty crowded (as you can see from the photo above). My best tip is to go early in the morning if you want a picture without anyone else in it. While it is fun to see, it’s a pretty quick stop because there’s not much to do after you walk around and take photos.

Another way to see these colorful installations is via a guided Magic Mountains tour that also takes you to the famous “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign.

Want a longer trip? Check out this California to Arizona road trip itinerary .

13. Hoover Dam, Nevada

Last but certainly not least, is a marvel of engineering. The Hoover Dam straddles the Colorado River on the border of Nevada and Arizona. You can take guided tours to learn about its construction and the role it plays in water management and power generation.

Hoover Dam is famous for its cameo in the movies “Transformers (2007)” and “San Andreas (2015)”, but there’s more to it than what meets the eye. The dam was the largest in the world in 1935 after its construction, standing as tall as a 60-story building.

Take an ultimate Hoover Dam tour on your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip to fully immerse yourself in the majesty of this architectural marvel. You’ll get to walk along the spectacular dam while your knowledgeable guides share stories of its construction, as well as popular figures who had a hand in the building of the dam.

3-Day San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive Itinerary

To make things a bit easier for you, I’ve compiled a 3-day itinerary from San Francisco to Las Vegas. This itinerary can easily include all the stops mentioned above; however, I only cover the most popular attractions along the way. 

Day 1: San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

Depart from San Francisco early in the morning to avoid traffic. Drive across the bay to Oakland, where you can stop for coffee, snacks, or breakfast at Buttercup on Broadway Street. Continue east and make a lunch stop in Modesto. Downtown offers numerous grub spots, such as Fuzio Universal Bistro for pizza or sandwiches.

Afterward, get back on the road and enter Yosemite National Park through the Big Oak Flat Entrance . Make a stop at Tunnel View for your first glimpse of the iconic Yosemite Valley, then explore the area by visiting Yosemite Falls and taking a short hike to Mirror Lake .

Where to Stay: Located in El Portal, Yosemite View Lodge provides an affordable stay with multiple pools, an onsite restaurant, and gorgeous river and mountain views. (Rates start at $175 per night)

Day 2: Yosemite to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks

From your accommodation in Yosemite Valley, drive south through the Sierra National Forest to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. At Kings Canyon, you can visit Grant Grove to admire the General Grant Tree and walk the short Big Stump Basin Loop Trail .

Continue to Sequoia National Park nearby to see the world’s largest tree by volume, the General Sherman Tree. I suggest you take the scenic drive along Generals Highway, stopping at viewpoints like the Lost Grove and exploring short trails like the Big Baldy Ridge Trailhead .

Where to Stay: Fresno is the largest town close to Sequoia National Park, so staying at Sonesta ES Suites makes the most sense. The hotel offers modern rooms with a fully equipped kitchen, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. (Rates start at $142 per night)

Day 3: Sequoia National Park to Las Vegas

Before getting back on the road, take some time to enjoy the serene morning in the Sequoia forest. Drive back through the Generals Highway to leave the parks. Head east to explore the unique desert landscape and salt flats in Death Valley .

Popular spots for sightseeing in Death Valley include the Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Before you arrive in Sin City, make sure you make a stop at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , which is about a 30-minute drive outside Las Vegas.

Upon your arrival in Las Vegas, drop off your rental car if needed and explore the city’s attractions. Visit the Seven Magic Mountains art installation for a great photo-op, then take a tour of Hoover Dam for more Insta-worthy photos and a bit of a history lesson.

Where to Stay: There are plenty of places to stay in Las Vegas, but a fun one is Treasure Island Hotel & Casino . You’ll have lots to do between the hotel’s swimming pools, theater, casino, and the Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. museum. (Rates start at $126 per night)

If you’d like to take on an extended version of this journey, check out my Los Angeles to Grand Canyon road trip .

You’ll love all these stops to make on your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

Las Vegas to San Francisco Road Trip

The best things to see and do between Las Vegas and San Francisco

• Featured Trip Guides

Created by Roadtrippers - July 22nd 2016

From Sin City to the Golden City! Leave behind the neon lights and desert heat of Las Vegas for the ocean breezes and bridge views of the Bay Area and make your way to San Francisco! Along the way, you'll pass by all kinds of roadside oddities, scenic parks, good eats, gorgeous wineries, and tons more to make the drive up to SF worth the road trip!

Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

4925 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV, US

Pinball Hall of Fame

310 Spring St Goodsprings, Goodsprings, NV, US

Goodsprings, NV

Goodsprings, Nevada is a town that's basically the dead opposite of Las Vegas. There's nothing glitzy or glamorous here... just a few cinder block buildings housing gritty, no frills watering holes and a few other essential businesses. It would be an actual ghost town, if not for the General Store and the Pioneer Saloon, a drinking establishment that's been boozing up locals since the days when miners occupied the place. You can see bullet holes from a card game gone very wrong, and this is the bar where Clark Gable drowned his grief in liquor after finding out about the death of his wife. This place is loaded with history.

31900 S. Las Vegas Blvd, Primm, NV, US

Bonnie and Clydes Death Car

72242 Baker Boulevard, Baker, CA, US

Alien Fresh Jerky

36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo, CA, US

Calico Ghost Town

Part real-life ghost town, part kitschy tourist trap, all fun. Calico is an authentic Wild West mining settlement, but has been fixed up quite a bit, with new buildings added, to make it more of an attraction than a bona fide historic site... it's a cute little stop with loads to see and do. You can even camp out here!

310 South Green Street, Tehachapi, CA, US

Tomo-Kahni State Historical Park

1930 R St, Bakersfield, CA, US

Bakersfield Museum of Art

17191 Hwy 46, Lost Hills, CA, US

Last Place James Dean Stopped

Pop culture junkies: this one's for you. Famed actor and total hunk James Dean stopped at this little gas station in the tiny town of Blackwell's Corner for quick refreshments before fatally crashing his beloved Porsche 550 Spyder on his way to a race. Eerie foreshadowing and the whole "live fast, die young" tragedy of Dean's life, as well as his mysteriously charismatic persona and popularity have kept the little gas station alive as a pilgrimage of sorts for Dean fans. There's a little tribute to him, and the little station has a retro vibe and memorabilia to browse.

62964 Little Panoche Rd, Firebaugh, CA, US

Mercey Hot Springs

9001 Lander Ave, Hilmar, CA, US

Hilmar Cheese Company

Seriously, why would you not want to tour a cheese factory? Hilmar Cheese Company has a visitor center and offers factory tours where you can learn about dairy farms, cheesemaking, cows, and tons more. During summers they even do ice cream factory tours! Plus, there's a cafe (with a gloriously cheese-centric menu) and a gift shop where you can stock up on essential souvenirs and road trip snacks.

28000 South Austin Rd., Ripon, CA, US

Caswell Memorial State Park

5455 Greenville Rd, Livermore, CA, US

Bent Creek Winery

8252 Earhart Rd, Oakland, CA, US

Oakland Aviation Museum

707 W Hornet Ave, Alameda, CA, US

USS Hornet Museum & Officer's Club

You'll know you're getting close to the Pacific (and your final destination, San Francisco) when you start to see ships and boats. The USS Hornet is an aircraft carrier that served in WWII and on the Apollo 11 mission (a manned space expedition!) It's moored on the San Francisco Bay near Alameda and serves as a massive, floating museum.

San Francisco

Of course, even though the road trip from Vegas to San Francisco was exciting, once you reach your destination, the adventure is only just beginning. Whether you want to explore Chinatown, Haight Ashbury, Golden Gate Park, or the entire Bay area, there's so much culture and history in SF that that's a guide unto itself!

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

Keep exploring with the Roadtrippers mobile apps.

Anything you plan or save automagically syncs with the apps, ready for you to hit the road!

Connect with us and hit up #roadtrippers

Tall tales, trip guides, & the world's weird & wonderful.

• Roadpass Digital
• Mobile Apps

Business Tools

• Partnerships

Get Inspired

• Road trip ideas by state
• National parks
• Famous routes
• Voices from the Road

Fresh Guides

• The ultimate guide to Mammoth Cave National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Badlands National Park
• Route 66 Leg 2: St. Louis to Tulsa
• Route 66 Leg 1: Chicago to St. Louis
• Route 66 Leg 3: Tulsa to Amarillo
• Top 10 things to do in Ohio
• Offbeat Road Trip Guides
• Road Trip USA
• Scenic Routes America
• National Park Road Trips
• Terms and Conditions

Road Trip From San Francisco To Las Vegas

A road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas is quite a big undertaking as the drive is rather long and spans several terrains ranging from plains to mountains to desert.

Most people would opt to travel this route by plane. But by doing so they would miss out on the amazing adventures, detours left and right and some of the most stunning landscapes you're ever likely to see.

The road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas can be done in just 8 hours 30 minutes following the interstates through Bakersfield. Instead you should take 2 to 3 days taking the scenic route through Yosemite and Death Valley National Parks.

To help you plan your trip, I've put together a guide of everything you need to know before embarking on this journey.

How far is Las Vegas from San Francisco and how long will the road trip take?

Whether you're taking the scenic route or getting to Las Vegas as fast as possible, the route will be about 560 miles long.

The fast route along interstates bypassing the Sierra Nevada will take a little over 8 hours of pure road time - you'll need to add stops for fuel and food on top of that.

If you plan on taking the more scenic route, you'll need to add a couple extra hours of driving on top, but you won't want to do that route in one day.

Technically you could do it if you set off early, but what's the point of just driving past all the amazing sights between San Francisco and Las Vegas without taking the time to actually explore them?

Remember that your road trip may take an hour or two longer than normal if you're traveling on a Friday or Saturday, as lots of people visit Las Vegas over the weekend and head out of San Francisco headed for the mountains and national parks.

But if you set off early and get out of the city at 7am, making two or three pit stops along the way, you can theoretically get to Las Vegas in time for a night out.

I would strongly recommend breaking up your trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas into 2 days or more. Below, you can see some of the amazing places and landmarks you'll encounter along the way – the route I propose has plenty to offer in the way of views and accommodation, so you'll be thankful you drove instead of flying after visiting them!

Best road trip route from San Francisco to Las Vegas

The best road trip route from San Francisco to Las Vegas passes through the Sierra Nevada Mountains driving the Tioga Pass through Yosemite and past the Death Valley at a mere cost of 2 more hours on the road than it would be sat on the boring straight interstates through Bakersfield.

There are a number of great detours you can make off the route depending on the time you have and what kinds of places you want to spend time in.

Whether you're flying into San Francisco, or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Road trip route from Denver to Las Vegas

Head out of San Francisco along the Bay Bridge to Oakland before following the interstate past Oakland Zoo and Lake Chabot to the I-580. You'll eventually reach Highway 120 as you cross over the San Joaquin River and this road will take you all the way to Yosemite.

The same Highway 120 crosses right over the Sierra Nevada through the Yosemite National Park with this section being known as the Tioga Road - check before you travel as this road gets closed from time to time and remains closed during the winter only reopening in late spring.

US 395 runs south past Mammoth Lakes and later reaching Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Take a left at Lone Pine to reach State Route 190 which will take you right across the heart of Death Valley before joining Highway 95 for the drive down to Las Vegas.

Fastest road trip route from San Francisco to Las Vegas

If you absolutely must get to Las Vegas as fast as possible and don't care about seeing anything on the way, ignore everything above and jump on the southbound I-5 a few miles after passing Livermore.

You'll need to come off to pass through Bakersfield and along Tehachapi Pass before joining the I-15 at Barstow which will take you all the way to Las Vegas.

This road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas should can take as little as 8 hours on the road if you set off early or 9 to 10 hours if you allow for a few stops. It won't be the most scenic route you've driven, but you can comfortably get there in time for a night out.

Best places to stop between San Francisco and Las Vegas

To make the most of the incredible scenery and to break up the road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas, you have some great places you can stop for the night on the way.

Spend the day at Yosemite

The waterfalls, mountains, and sequoias make Yosemite National Park one of the most beautiful places in America. This is an incredible place to get in touch with nature by exploring the countless hiking trails and stargazing at night.

There's no shortage of great rentals in Yosemite, and wherever you wind up staying, you'll be surrounded by natural wonders and more picture-worthy locations than you can count. If you want to spoil yourself, Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite is the perfect luxury option in Yosemite .

Set right in the forest with stunning views of the surroundings, the lodge is just a mile outside the National Park and only a 15 minute detour off the Highway. You'll get to stay in one of the 88 luxury cabins spread around the 20 acre site and experience everything from relaxing in a pool to sitting around a camp fire.

All the sights and activities of Yosemite are on your doorstep with everything from fly fishing to snow shoeing on offer depending on the season.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

A Unique Stay In Death Valley

If you want to make more progress on day 1 or just want a different kind of scenery, you might consider staying in the Death Valley National Park instead.

Many of the Valley's most luxurious resorts are further south, and you'll be relatively close to Las Vegas by the time you reach them, but it still offers you the option of spending some time exploring this unique.

Famous for being the getaway of choice for Hollywood royalty from Marlon Brando to Matt Damon, the Inn at Death Valley is the perfect place to unwind right in the heart of the Death Valley .

From the pool and natural springs to the palm tree gardens and walkways, this resort truly feels like an oasis in the middle of a vast desert. The rooms are vintage, yet sleek and fashionable, and the bar and lobby area feel like a movie set. There are plenty of physical activities to be enjoyed here, thanks to the ample sports courts and exercise rooms.

Just walking around the premises, you'll get a great view of the Panamint Mountain range, as well as dunes and salt rock formations. The grounds are covered in greenery which is an impressive feat and the perfect antidote to the arid desert all around.

Things to see on a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas

The main reason to take a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas is the abundance of great stops – there are so many, in fact, that you'll be tempted to visit as many as you can on your way back from Vegas too (and maybe even revisit ones you already saw!)

Here is a relatively comprehensive list of places worth looking out for while driving from San Francisco to Las Vegas, in order:

• Rainbow Pool (Groveland) – an all-natural pool and a small waterfall – a beautiful location for a picnic and great for jump dives, but tends to be crowded
• Tuolumne Grove – a sparsely visited location that makes for a great hiking spot and is home to gigantic sequoias
• Mariposa Grove – somewhat of a detour, but definitely worth considering – another beautiful marvel of nature full of giant sequoias
• Yosemite Valley – the heart and soul of Yosemite National Park, home to the Merced River, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, dense pine forests and the infamous El Capitan rock
• Tuolumne Meadows – gorgeous meadow by the riverside with a beautiful view in literally every direction. Also great for hiking
• Mammoth Lakes & Devils Pospile National Monument - great ski resort in the winter & perfect hiking in the summer to Devils Postpile to see unique column-shaped rocks
• Kings Canyon National Park - although the main entrance is from the west, you can still access one of the most stunning national parks in the land with sequoia forests and tall mountain peaks
• Sequoia National Park - again, most of the sights including the world's largest tree are accessed from the west side but you can still drive in and hike through giant sequoias on your way
• Death Valley National Park - The hottest place on earth with otherworldly scenery needs little introduction
• Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge – east of Death Valley NP, this nature reserve is home to unique flora and fauna on the verge of extinction
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area – located in the Mojave Desert, this national park near Las Vegas is home to the Keystone Thrust and a slew of red/sandstone cliffs. You might need to make a reservation for a timed-entry slot, so check the official website before traveling.

As great as these places are, this is only scratching the surface of what the route has to offer. Pack up some additional supplies and get ready to take some detours off the beaten path - you will be surprised at how much there is to discover!

Best time to go on a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas

In many ways, there's no wrong time to take a road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas, as the weather in Vegas doesn't impact most of the indoor casinos and activities.

However, two important considerations are both weather-related. The Tioga Pass through Yosemite is closed throughout the winter from some point in November/Early December (depending on when snow starts) to whenever the road gets cleared (usually May).

This is the same for most other passes over Sierra Nevada including the nearby Sonora Pass so if you're driving in the winter, you'll need to adjust your route and head further north to cross over the Carson Pass (CA-88) or Echo Summit (US-50). Both cross just south of Lake Tahoe so you can add another amazing stop, but your journey will take a few hours longer.

The other consideration is the temperatures you will experience in Death Valley. This National Park is famous for hitting the highest ever recorded temperature. Whether you believe the 134° F (56.6° C) set in 1913 or the 130° F (54.4° C) recorded in August 2020, both put the Death Valley as the hottest place on Earth.

If you plan on driving at the peak of the summer, bring plenty of water, make sure your aircon is working well and avoid spending time outside during the middle of the day as it will be unbearably hot.

Also note that as it's a hugely popular destination, Yosemite Valley can get congested over the summer months. If you're looking to avoid crowds, late spring and early fall might be the best time to take the trip.

Although you'll have to take a detour in the winter due to road closures (see more in the Route section above), daily highs in the Death Valley in December are a balmy 40 to 65 ° F, and the view of Wildrose Canyon this time of year is absolutely gorgeous. Nighttime lows can get pretty cold so bring blankets and warm clothes!

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

• South Africa
• Philippines
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Solomon Islands
• Itineraries
• About Travel2Next
• Hotel Reviews
• Travel2Next TV
• Travel Shop

• Destinations
• North America

20 Places To Visit On A San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Depending on which way you travel, driving straight from San Francisco to Las Vegas would take about 9 hours, not including stops. However, not only are you travelling between two of America’s most incredible cities, but California and the gateway to Nevada have some of the best sights and most beautiful landscapes on the West Coast.

It’s easy to stretch this route into days, or even weeks, depending on your interests, and if you’re an outdoor lover, the array of national parks each warrant at least a few days on their own along the way. This is combined with fascinating towns, state parks, historical sites, lakes and mountains, which means this road trip offers something for everyone. Hiking, biking, climbing and swimming are all on the cards, or for less outdoorsy types, the big cities and unique counties of Santa Clara and San Jose offer dining, nightlife and historic landmarks.

1- San Francisco

2- palo alto, 3- santa clara, 4- san jose, 6- yosemite national park, 7- mammoth lakes, 8- lone pine, 9- mount whitney, 11- sierra national forest, 12- kings canyon national park, 13- sequoia national park, 14- red rock canyon state park, 15- death valley national park, 16- mojave national preserve, 17- charleston peak, 18- seven magic mountains, 19- hoover dam, 20- las vegas, san francisco to las vegas.

Looking for a rental car? Click here to find the best deals . 

• 5-Day Yosemite Backpacking – see Yosemite icons.
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park – self-driving audio tour.
• Tour of California Self-Guided Driving Bundle – save money and get the bundle.
• Silicon Valley Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour – for technology lovers.
• Death Valley National Park – self-guided audio driving tour.

20 Places To Visit On A San Francisco To Las Vegas Road Trip

San Francisco is one of the best places to ease into a road trip.

You’ll need to spend a few days here since there’s so much to see, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alamo Square and much more.

One of the best ways to maximise time is by hiring a bike to ride along the bay, from the wharf to the bridge.

You can even ride over the bridge to Sausalito if you’re not out of breath by then!

Don’t miss taking one of the city’s famous streetcars, which are essential as the streets are extremely steep.

If you have time one evening, head over to Chinatown for a delicious meal, or in the day, climb Coit Tower for epic views of the city and bay.

From here, you’ll be able to see Alcatraz Island – save at least half a day to visit this historic national park and learn about its fascinating history.

Top tour: 

• Golden Gate Bridge Guided Bicycle or E-Bike Tour from San Francisco to Sausalito
• Tour of California Self-Guided Driving Bundle

Palo Alto is 33 miles (53 km) from San Francisco or a 50-minute drive.

Palo Alto is just a short drive south of San Francisco proper.

While it may not be on the usual list of places, it’s worth visiting Stanford University, one of America’s top Ivy League colleges.

Anyone can visit the university, and the walk along university avenue – which is filled with shops, bookstores and cafes, is a fun way to spend a few hours.

If you’re secretly into science, consider visiting the Computer History Museum.

Palo Alto is home to some of Silicon Valley’s biggest names, such as Facebook and Google, and here you can learn about the evolution of tech.

For a final goodbye to the area, take an elevator ride up the Hoover Tower on the university campus for panoramic views over Palo Alto.

Top tour: Silicon Valley Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour for Technology Lovers .

Santa Clara is 14 miles (22.5 km) from Palo Alto or a 30-minute drive.

Just a stone’s throw from Palo Alto (you could almost walk), Santa Clara County is another part of the area with its own identity.

For sports fans, Levi’s Stadium is a must-see, especially if there’s a game on. If not, it still houses the 49ers Museum, filled with cool baseball exhibits belonging to some of the greatest players in history.

For history buffs, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum houses the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts on the West Coast.

Families should also stop in Santa Clara if only to visit the Great America Theme Park, which has many exhilarating rollercoasters and even its own waterpark.

San Jose is 5 miles (8 km) from Santa Clara or a 20-minute drive.

The huge county of San Jose borders Santa Clara and has fun things to see and do.

Your first stop should be the Winchester Mystery House – all the better if you’re visiting in spooky season; which is filled with historic ghost stories, false bookcases and trapdoors.

Since you’re off on a long road trip, make time to visit Santana Row, which is San Jose’s main shopping area, where you’ll find an array of shops, cafes and excellent restaurants where you can stock up on supplies and have a bite to eat.

With a little time to spare, Japantown is idyllic for a stroll, which has a few museums about the Japanese settlers in the area, a Japanese friendship garden and, of course, many sushi restaurants.

Modesto is 80 miles (129 km) from San Jose or a 2-hour drive.

Modesto is a small city between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park.

Modesto is full of beautiful buildings, museums and galleries, so it can be a great pit stop if the weather isn’t ideal.

First, head to the McHenry Museum to learn more about the city’s history through photos, artefacts and exhibits.

Downtown Modesto will give you a shopping and foodie fix, before heading out for an evening of entertainment.

Opt for either the Gallo Center for the Arts, home to the Mary Stuart Rogers Theatre, which always has a play or performance on, or should it be full, the historic State Theatre shows old-style independent movies and dance recitals.

For more California ideas, see:

• 40 Things To Do In Lake Tahoe
• 20 Things To Do In San Francisco At Night
• 21 Things To Do In Los Angeles At Night
• 23 Landmarks In Los Angeles
• 20 Landmarks In California
• 20 San Diego Landmarks
• 20 Songs About California
• Best Places To Visit in California
• 20 Things To Do In Santa Ana
• 20 Things To Do In Malibu
• Deserts In California Guide
• 20 Things To Do In Fremont
• 20 Things To Do In Berkeley
• 20 Things To Do In Monterey
• 20 Things To Do In Anaheim
• 20 Things To Do In Santa Rosa
• Best Time To Visit California
• Los Angeles To San Francisco Road Trip
• San Diego To San Francisco Road Trip
• 20 Things To Do In Ventura
• 20 Things To Do In San Luis Obispo
• 20 Things To Do In Palm Desert
• 20 Things To Do In Palm Springs
• 20 Things To Do In Pasadena
• Where To Stay In Los Angeles
• 20 Things To Do In Bishop CA
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Road Trip
• 20 Things To Do In Yosemite
• 20 Waterfalls In California
• 20 Things To Do In Big Bear
• 20 Things To Do In Laguna Beach
• 20 Things To Do In Solvang
• 20 Things To Do In San Ramon
• 20 Things To Do In Roseville
• 20 Things To Do In Carmel
• 15 Things San Francisco Is Famous For
• 20 Ghost Towns In California
• 20 Ways To Spend Christmas In California
• San Francisco Itinerary
• San Francisco Bike Tours
• San Francisco Go Cars
• Exploring Hearst Castle
• Yosemite National Park
• 9 California National Parks
• Lake Tahoe Snowshoe Adventure
• 20 Things To Do In Bakersfield
• 20 Things To Do In Redding California
• 20 Things To Do In Manhattan Beach
• 20 Things To Do In Fresno
• 20 Things To Do In Riverside
• 20 Things To Do In Long Beach
• 20 Places To Go Glamping In California
• 20 Things To Do In Eureka
• 20 Los Angeles Day Trips
• 20 San Francisco Day Trips
• 20 Things To Do In Santa Cruz
• 20 Things To Do In Beverly Hills
• 20 West Hollywood Bars
• 20 Things To Do In Half Moon Bay
• 20 Things To Do In Morro Bay
• 20 Beaches In San Francisco
• Grand Canyon National Park Photos
• 20 Things To Do In Stockton
• 20 Things To Do In Temecula
• 20 Things To Do In San Bernardino
• 20 California Cities
• 20 Things To Do In Irvine
• 20 Lake Tahoe Beaches
• 20 Things To Do In Yosemite in Winter
• 20 Things To Do In Lake Arrowhead
• 15 Things California Is Famous For

Yosemite National Park is an 84-mile (135 km) drive from Modesto or a 2-hour drive.

Although Yosemite National Park is a slight detour on your journey, it can’t be missed if you’re this close.

Visitors to the park spend anywhere from one to seven days here, but two or three is enough to see it fully.

Some of the most famous viewpoints, such as Tunnel View and Glacier Point, can be seen by car if you’re short on time.

With longer, try to stay in Yosemite Valley to admire El Capitan and Half Dome and do a hike, such as to Bridalveil Falls or the Mist Trail.

In the summer, you can follow the epic Tioga Pass via the Tuolumne Meadows and views from over 10,000 ft (3048 m) to exit the east side of the park, which will lead you to the next stop of Mammoth Lakes.

The pass is closed in winter, so you can head back west and continue onto Fresno.

• 5-Day Yosemite Backpacking – Yosemite Icons .
• Guided Yosemite Hiking Excursion .

Mammoth Lakes is about 100 miles (161 km) from Yosemite National Park or a 2.5-hour drive.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in summer and drive along the Tioga Pass and down the east side of Yosemite, you’ll quickly reach the town of Mammoth Lakes.

Mammoth Lakes is famous as a winter destination, thanks to its fantastic skiing on the unsurprisingly large mountains.

However, being filled with lakes, the region is also a haven for summer activities such as swimming, kayaking, fishing and hiking.

You may not be skiing down Mammoth Mountain, but you can still enjoy unhampered views from the top in the summer, head to the strangely shaped Devil’s Postpile or take a short hike to Rainbow Falls.

Mammoth Village is also well equipped for visitors, with a range of restaurants and shops for renting out gear, tour companies and information centres.

Top tour: Mammoth Mountain Premium Ski Rental Including Delivery .

Lone Pine is 99 miles (160 km) from Mammoth Lakes or a 2.5-hour drive.

Following the eastern route past Mammoth Lakes, you’ll quickly reach the stunning town of Lone Pine, famous for its jaw-dropping backdrop of the Sierra Nevada peaks and the Alabama Hills.

The town has long been popular for filming classic Western movies, so your first stop should be the Museum of Western Film History to see loads of cool posters, memorabilia and camera from over 400 films shot here.

Next, drive just out of town to the Alabama Hills, which are super popular with photographers due to the unique rock formations and, again, the many famous filming locations.

If you’re preparing to hike Mount Whitney and want to ease in, or aren’t and still want a scenic hike, the short trail to Lone Pine Lake offers stunning scenery over 2.5 miles (4 km) and a refreshing lake as a reward.

Mount Whitney is 12 miles (19 km) from Lone Pine or a 20-minute drive.

Mount Whitney is a stop on this road trip for those who prepare in advance.

Mount Whitney is the tallest mountain in the United States and is a strenuous hike, even for the experienced hiker, although the views from the top bring people back time and again.

Permits are generally required for hiking in and around Mount Whitney year-round, however, between November and April, there’s no limit on the number of people, and you can grab a pass once you arrive.

Most people spend a night on the mountain to break up the hike, which is 21.5 miles (35 km) in total, otherwise, it would take around 16 hours of straight hiking to complete.

Take your time and enjoy the views if you make it up here; this is one of America’s most renowned achievements.

Fresno is 60 miles (97 km) from Yosemite National Park or a 1-hour 40-minute drive.

Fresno is only around an hour and a half from Yosemite National Park and sits in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

Being in between some major cities and beautiful national parks, it has a diverse mix of things to do.

If you missed a big game in San Francisco or Santa Clara, you might be able to catch a game at Chukchansi Park during the season.

Alternatively, if you’re visiting in October, Fresno hosts a huge open-air fair for two weeks, with horse racing, rides, stalls and live music.

In the warmer months, Fresno, like much of California, is home to some pretty vineyards and wineries, such as Moravia Wines and Fresno State Winery.

Take a tour of the vineyards and sample some of the different wines in the sunshine, but spend the night instead of driving onward after this activity.

Top tour: Fresno Scavenger Hunt: Fresno Art & History .

Sierra National Forest is a 36-mile (58 km) drive from Fresno or a 50-minute drive.

About 45 minutes directly east of Fresno lies the stunning Sierra National Forest.

The forest comprises miles and miles of beautiful pine trees as far as the eye can see, and you can see them all if you take one of the many scenic hikes in the area.

No matter what activity you’re keen on, you’ll find it here, including camping, cycling and fishing, or on a tight timescale, take a drive and have a picnic against the breathtaking backdrop.

There’s also canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and kayaking for water babies and for even more excitement in winter, skiing, snowshoeing and sledging.

Bring a tent and take a day or two to enjoy the area to its fullest.

Kings Canyon National Park is a 66-mile (106 km) drive from Sierra National Forest or a 1.5-hour drive.

When faced with the choice between Yosemite, Sequoia and the many other national parks, many people skip out on King’s Canyon. But you may be surprised to learn it’s home to the deepest canyon in the United States (which most people assume is the Grand Canyon).

Unless you plan to camp or do a particularly long hike, you can see King’s Canyon in a full day.

Take a short hike to see General Grant, one of the biggest trees in the area, or for almost no walking at all, Junction Point has impressive views over the entire canyon.

If you spend less time here, it makes a perfect route to continue directly to Sequoia National Park, just a short distance away.

• Private Guided Hiking Tours – Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
• Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour.

Sequoia National Park is a 48-mile (77 km) drive from Kings Canyon NP or a 1.5-hour drive.

It’s just an hour and a half to the fascinating Sequoia National Park, an atmospheric forested area filled with some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world.

You can walk among the trees in awe, feeling small, and there are a few other things not to miss.

General Sherman is the most popular attraction. It’s the largest tree in the world, but it’s surrounded by trees equally impressive in stature.

There are also caves here, so pick up a ticket for the Crystal Cave in advance to visit the stunning underground cave filled with stalagmites and stalactites.

If you’re running out of time but still searching for a fantastic photo spot, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, which has loads of pull-ins with sweeping views over the forest and canyons.

Top tour: Stargazing in Sequoia National Park .

Red Rock Canyon Park is 172 miles (277 km) from Sequoia National Park or a 2h 50-minute drive.

Red Rock Canyon is one of the most beautiful and unusual landscapes of any national protected area, filled with reddish boulders, hills, gorges and cliffs.

If you’ve visited the Valley of Fire, you’ll find similarly unique sights here.

Firstly, familiarise yourself with the park via the scenic drive, which is also great if you’re passing through, as it encompasses many of the major lookout points, pull-ins with views and trailheads.

While at the visitor centre, ask about the ancient petroglyphs scattered throughout the park so that you can make a beeline to see these 800-year-old carvings.

In the summer, the park can get typically hot, but if you do just one hike, make it the Calico Hills, which winds through many of the park’s gorges and offers views.

Top tour: Scooter Tours of Red Rock Canyon .

Death Valley is a 116-mile (187 km) drive from Red Rock Canyon State Park, or a 1h 50min drive.

Death Valley is just over an hour from Las Vegas and one of America’s most notorious national parks.

Aim to avoid visiting in July and August, when temperatures can be dangerously hot – unsurprisingly, since it is the hottest and lowest place in the United States.

You can drive between the most scenic points in the park and then head out on foot to explore.

Don’t miss Dante’s View, Zabriskie Point and Badwater Basin, the latter of which is the scientific lowest point.

Artists Palette, where the rock faces are multicoloured, is also pretty for photos or for something a bit strange, Devil’s Golf Course, filled with spiky, lumpy salt for miles and miles sees some stunning sunsets.

Top tour: Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour .

For more about Nevada, read:

• 21 Nevada Landmarks
• 20 Things To Do In Las Vegas At Night
• Nevada National Parks Guide
• Las Vegas Boxing
• 20 Day Trips From Las Vegas
• Las Vegas To Zion National Park
• 20 Las Vegas Museums
• 20 Cities in Nevada
• 20 State Parks in Nevada
• 16 Things Nevada Is Famous For

Mojave National Preserve is a 101-mile (162 km) drive from Death Valley or a 1-hour 50-minute drive.

After leaving Death Valley, the Mojave National Preserve is a bit further on past Las Vegas, but visiting the sights around Sin City is far easier than going in and out repeatedly.

The Preserve has a landscape similar to Death Valley, filled with dunes and is a haven for hiking, camping and off-road driving.

If you’re not heading further south and won’t visit Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll be pleased to know that the Preserve has the highest concentration of Joshua trees in the world.

For endless views over the flats and the hills beyond, try the 4-mile hike to Teutonia Peak or have fun climbing the massive Kelso dunes.

Charleston Peak is a 104-mile (167 km) drive from Mojave National Preserve or a 1-hour 40-minute drive.

Another one for passionate hikers and climbers, Charleston Peak, is the highest point in the Las Vegas surroundings, with a reasonably strenuous 17.5 miles (28 km) hike to the top.

The trail is recommended in the summertime, as it can get relatively slippery and dangerous in winter, and no permits are required for the journey.

There are also various places to camp along the way, although the trail takes up to nine hours, it’s recommended to space it out if you have time.

Even if you can’t summit the peak, the Mount Charleston area has over 100 miles (161 km) of hiking trails, which lead to lakes, waterfalls and blooming meadows.

Head to the visitor’s centre for information on where to go.

Seven Magic Mountains are a 67-mile (108 km) drive from Charleston Peak or a 1-hour drive.

It’s highly likely you’ve already seen photos of the Seven Magic Mountains, an art installation just outside Las Vegas which is extremely popular with tourists, Instagrammers and photographers.

Dotted around the desert landscape are seven huge, rainbow-coloured rock towers visited by thousands of people daily.

Each year, there are questions about whether the installation will finally be removed, but now it’s confirmed to be staying until at least 2026 so you’ll have plenty of time to visit.

The area is completely free to enter at all times of day, although you’ll need to drive, and it’s best to arrive earlier to avoid the crowds.

The Hoover Dam is 51 miles (82 km) from Seven Magic Mountains or a 55-minute drive.

The Hoover Dam is a little further south than the city of Las Vegas, but if you aren’t planning a trip to the Grand Canyon (which often includes a stop here), it’s worth making time for the 45-minute drive.

The dam is one of the most impressive feats of engineering on earth, which might not sound exciting, but the views over the water certainly are.

To really get stuck in, you can kayak the dam, or to stay on dry land, opt for a guided tour or a visit to the power plant.

Very close by are other attractions, such as Memorial Bridge and Lake Mead Recreational Area, which has a lake for boating or kayaking, and many scenic picnic areas.

Top tour: Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas With Lunch .

Las Vegas is 37 miles (59.5 km) from the Hoover Dam or a 40-minute drive.

At the end of the trip, Las Vegas is one of America’s most iconic cities.

You’ll most likely be staying in one of the major hotels in the city’s centre, ideally located on The Strip, as exploring the sights is convenient. 

The Strip is around 4 miles long, and once you add in stops to see everything, this can take up the best part of a day.

Don’t miss visiting some of Vegas’ famous restaurants; if you can afford it, eateries like Hell’s Kitchen and La Cirque are worth it for the experience.

Also, wander into some of the hotels, such as Caesar’s Palace and Venetian, both of which have jaw-dropping interiors.

At the far end of The Strip, not far from the Strat, you’ll find famous Fremont Street, full of more authentic Vegas shops, activities and attractions, including the nearby Golden Nugget Casino – poker, slots or roulette, casinos are a must-do when in Vegas.

Top tour: Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with Optional VIP Transportation .

Looking for a road trip? Here are some epic driving vacations.

• Canada Road Trip
• Driving The Icefields Parkway
• Andalucia Road Trip
• Queensland Road Trip
• Argentina Road Trip
• Tasmania Road Trip 
• Cambodia Road Trip
• Nashville to Memphis Drive
• Dallas to Austin Drive
• Houston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Washington DC Road Trip
• Boston to New York Road Trip
• Boston to San Francisco Road Trip
• Boston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Miami to Atlanta Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip
• San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip
• San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park Drive
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Drive
• Chicago to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Phoenix to San Francisco Road Trip
• Vancouver to Seattle Road Trip
• Houston to Denver Road Trip
• Montreal to New York Road Trip
• Houston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• New York to San Francisco Road Trip
• Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip
• Houston to New Orleans Road Trip
• Tucson to Phoenix Road Trip

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

Editor's Picks

44 landmarks in europe, 25 australian landmarks, 101 sunset captions and quotes, more about usa, 20 things to do in hawaii at night, 20 things to do in boston at night, glamping in georgia, 20 places to go glamping in texas, glamping in colorado.

Day 3: Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite (200 Miles/5 Hours)

Grab a coffee from Blue Bottle Café to wake up for the drive to Yosemite. Leave San Francisco at 8am to reach Yosemite by noon. The drive to the Big Oak Flat entrance takes at least four hours; however, traffic, especially in summer and on weekends, can make it much longer.

Days 4-5: Yosemite

Explore Yosemite Valley to see iconic attractions like Half Dome and El Capitan. Make reservations ahead of time to spend the night in the comfort of the Ahwahnee Hotel or in the mountain air at the park’s Tuolumne Meadows Campground, which is only open in the summer. On the second day, plan a hike to Tuolumne Meadows or head to the more remote, less-visited Hetch Hetchy region, where worthwhile hikes include the Wapama Falls Trail.

Moon Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon

by Ann Marie Brown

by Moon Travel Guides

• Flexible Itineraries: Unique and adventure-packed ideas for day hikers, winter visitors, families with kids, campers, and more
• The Best Hikes in Each Park: Detailed hike descriptions, individual trail maps, mileage and elevation gains, and backpacking options
• Experience the Outdoors: Ride the open-air tram through Yosemite Valley or hike downhill from Glacier Point past roaring waterfalls. Drive the legendary Generals Highway or take a scenic bike ride to pristine lakes (and yes, more waterfalls!). Go for a horse-drawn wagon ride on a history tour or take a rock-climbing lesson. Walk among the goliaths of Sequoia’s Giant Forest and stop at a historic lodge for dinner and a well-deserved drink
• How to Get There: Up-to-date information on traveling between the parks , gateway towns, park entrances, park fees, and tours
• Where to Stay: From campgrounds and rustic lodges to the majestic Ahwahnee, find the best spots to kick back, both inside and outside the parks
• Planning Tips: When to go, what to pack, safety information, and how to avoid the crowds, with full-color photos and easy-to-use maps throughout
• Expertise and Know-How from seasoned explorer and outdoor expert Ann Marie Brown
• ebook (Revised)

Also available from:

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million

Day 6: Driving from Yosemite to Las Vegas (415 Miles/8 Hours)

You have a long drive ahead of you, so fuel up with a stop at the Whoa Nellie Deli just east of the park’s Tioga Pass Entrance or at the Silver Lake Resort Café on the June Lake Loop.

For most of the year, the best route is via Tioga Pass (if you’re traveling in winter or spring, check to make sure that it’s open before heading out). The Nevada route is the most direct: the 415-mile drive to Las Vegas takes 7 hours, 45 minutes. Follow CA-120 East to US-6 in Benton. Take US-6 East to Coaldale, where it shares the road with US-95 South to Tonopah, which makes a good stopover. It’s then a 210-mile straight shot on US-95 South to Vegas.

The California route is more scenic. It’s only a few miles farther but 45 minutes longer, traversing Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, and Lone Pine. East of Lone Pine, CA-136 becomes CA-190, which winds through Death Valley. A right turn onto the Daylight Pass Road leads to the Nevada border and CA-374 just before Beatty, which makes a good place to stop. From Beatty, US-95 leads southeast to Las Vegas.

Day 7: Las Vegas

The glitz of the Las Vegas Strip makes it a surreal stopover between the natural wonders of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. Strip off the dust and sweat of the road with a decadent pool party at The Palms. Get some creative comfort food at Culinary Dropout or go upscale at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. Indulge yourself with a stay at the lux Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas.

Day 8: Driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon (280 Miles/5 Hours)

The 280-mile drive to the Grand Canyon takes about five hours. Head south on US-93, breezing over the new Hoover Dam Bypass, and stop over in Kingman, Arizona. Then take I-40 East to Williams (115 miles) and overnight at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

Day 9: The Grand Canyon

Enjoy a break from your car by taking the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to Grand Canyon National Park . Enjoy the views from the Rim Trail or descend into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail. Get an appetizer or a drink at the historic El Tovar Hotel before taking the train back to Williams. For dinner, indulge in a prime cut of meat from Rod’s Steak House.

Day 10: Driving from the Grand Canyon to Los Angeles (500 Miles/8 Hours)

After a good night’s sleep, head out for Los Angeles. The 494-mile drive to Los Angeles takes 7-8 hours. Take I-40 West to Barstow. From Barstow, take I-15 South, then take I-10 West into the heart of L.A. Be prepared to slow down when you hit the L.A. traffic, which may extend your driving time exponentially.

Days 11-12: Los Angeles

After appreciating the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon, it’s time to appreciate the achievements of civilization in Los Angeles. On your first day, see the Space Shuttle Endeavour at the California Science Center or view the artistic masterpieces at the Getty Center . For a night in the heart of downtown, stay at the Ace Hotel and enjoy dinner at its downstairs restaurant, L.A. Chapter.

On your second day, give your mind a rest and hit the beach. Choose the Santa Monica Pier for its beachside amusement park, Venice Beach for its lively boardwalk, or Malibu for its famous surf. For dinner, plan on fresh seafood at Neptune’s Net, then sleep by the sea at the Hotel Erwin in Venice Beach. Kids (and kids at heart) might prefer a full day and night at the Disneyland Resort. For more suggestions on how to spend your time in Los Angeles, see page 287 of Moon California Road Trip .

Days 13-14: Driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco (500 Miles/8 Hours)

This scenic route runs almost 500 miles and can easily take 8 hours to drive. While it’s possible to make the drive in one long day, this is one stretch that you won’t want to rush. Planning on two days allows you to take in some of the many fine attractions along the way. Alternate between US-101 North and CA-1 (which are sometimes the same road) depending upon where you want to stop and linger. For a quicker drive, take the inland route I-5, which is just around 380 miles and takes about six hours—but you’ll miss the most scenic sections of the California coast.

Pacific Coast Highway

The most difficult part of this journey along PCH is deciding which of its many fine attractions deserve a stop. On the first day, soak up surf culture in Ventura or experience fine living in Santa Barbara, with its regal Santa Barbara Mission. San Luis Obispo is around the midway point and makes a good place to spend the night. On the second day, choose between Hearst Castle in San Simeon, the scenic coastal drive through Big Sur , or Monterey, with its world-class aquarium , on your way back to San Francisco. If you allow 3-4 days for this drive, you can see them all. Stay longer depending upon where your interests lie.

Stuart Thornton

About the author.

Learn more about this author

Moon Northern California Road Trips

by Stuart Thornton

by Kayla Anderson

Moon Southern California Road Trips

by Ian Anderson

Contributions by Jenna Blough

Contributions by Jessica Dunham

Contributions by Tim Hull

Newsletter Signup

Pin it for later.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

SIXT rent a car Magazine

Travel Tips and News

San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip: Explore nature from the ocean to the desert

Whether you want to spend some time on the water, enjoy a hike or treat yourself to a cold craft beer, this San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip has an array of options.

Known for its eclectic architecture and numerous attractions, San Francisco is must-see. We have selected a variety of sights and towns for you to stop at on your drive to Las Vegas. These range from lush lakes to small and charming cities, so you will never be bored during your drive. The summer is a great time for kayaking, hiking and mountain biking, while winter provides an opportunity to enjoy the route’s scenery while visiting a museum or two. 

1. San Francisco 2. Mono Lake 3. Convict Lake 4. Bishop, CA 5. Beatty, NV 6. Las Vegas

Info at a glance

• Type of route: Nature
• 6 stops along the route
• 234 miles of driving
• Walk across the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. 
• Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Convict Lake. 
• Visit the charming historic city of Bishop. 
• Get lost in the cozy town of Beatty. 
• Experience the unforgettable nightlife of Las Vegas. 

Getting to the start

This road trip starts in San Francisco, and if you’re coming from a different part of the US, you can always fly into San Francisco International Airport and pick up a rental car. If you have your own vehicle for the San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip, you can drive into San Francisco on US-101, I-80 or California Highway 1, among others.  

CAR RENTAL IN SAN FRANCISCO

When to Visit

While a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip is fun no matter what time of year it is, this specific route is often best between the months of May and November, as you won’t have to worry about roads being closed due to rain or snow. Make sure to pack plenty of layers, as it can be chilly in San Francisco and quite warm in Las Vegas. You will also want to pack a bathing suit, towel and sunscreen for when you’re at the lake, as well as sturdy shoes and outdoor gear in case you would like to go hiking. 

Driving tips

You will be driving in California and Nevada, both of which have similar speed limits. Generally, you can drive 65 miles per hour on the interstate and 555 mph on highways. Parts of this San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip go through mountainous areas, so you will want to be cautious and plan to drive slower. While you may encounter toll roads or bridges in parts of California, toll roads do not exist in the state of Nevada.  

What to know about the route

This San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip spans approximately 590 miles, which is around 10.5 hours of driving time in total. Along this route, you will have the opportunity to pass through some of the West Coast’s most scenic areas and charming towns. You will start in San Francisco, before taking CA Highway 120 E through Yosemite and to Mono Lake. Next, you will hop on US Highway 395 S to go down to Convict Lake. After this stop, your next destination will be the city of Bishop, which can also be reached via US-395 S. From here, you will head to the town of Beatty by taking CA Highway168 E, NV Highway 266 E and US Highway 95 S before getting to Las Vegas. Whether you’re seeing a live show, going to a casino or enjoying a hike, this city has something for every type of traveler. Depending on what you have planned, the time of year and how many passengers you have, a spacious SUV or a comfortable compact car are both suitable for the journey. 

San Francisco

Famous for its cool summers, unique architecture, steep roads and diverse landmarks, San Francisco has something for every visitor. You’ll want to dedicate a few days to explore this vibrant town, as there is so much to see and do here. The city can become quite busy, so try to visit the attractions that you would like to see the earliest in the day. 

Points of interest

A trip to San Francisco  wouldn’t be complete without walking or biking across the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Many visitors also enjoy going to Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay, where you can tour the former prison. You can also spend some time exploring the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which is home to over 30,000 pieces.  

Where to eat, drink and sleep

San Francisco is popular for its seafood and sourdough bread, so make sure to try these during your stay. Both Fog Harbor Fish House and Swan Oyster Depot are good for sampling the local fare. The city has many chic cocktail bars as well, like the Alchemist Bar & Lounge and Casements Bar. For lodging, there are a variety of charming hotels that you can choose from, including The Marker.  

Sixt Insider Tip

Muir Woods National Monument is just a short drive north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge and is a great place to visit, as you can get up close and personal with giant redwood trees. 

Distance to next stop in miles: 235 miles (4.5 hours) 

  To reach your next stop of Mono Lake, you will get on CA-120 E, which will take you through Yosemite National Park. Make sure to stop here if you would like to see the area’s ancient sequoia trees and granite cliffs. You can also take a detour to the scenic June Lake, which is a short distance from Mono Lake and known as a good spot for fishing. 

Formed over 750,000 years ago, Mono Lake is a saline lake that is famous for having high levels of salt in its water. One of the oldest lakes in the United States, this body of water is great for kayaking, bird watching and hiking.  

To learn more about the lake’s unique ecosystems, spend some time at South Tufa, which is home to one of the largest tufa groves in the area. If you would like to do some kayaking or canoeing, you will want to go to Navy Beach, which is also a great area to swim. Avid hikers will want to spend some time at Panum Crater, which has two trails.

If you would like to have beautiful views of the lake itself, head to Old Marina, a vantage point that looks out onto Mono Lake’s islands. The best way to get here is either by hiking or biking.  

Distance to next stop in miles: 33 miles (35 minutes) 

To get to your next destination of Convict Lake, get on US-395 S. This highway will bring you through Inyo National Forest, a scenic area that is known for its recreational opportunities, such as biking, fishing, hiking and rafting. During the winter months, you can also go sledding, skiing and snowboarding. 

Convict Lake

Located in the Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Convict Lake is filled with clear water and a large trout population. It was originally carved out by glaciers and is now known for being one of the deepest lakes in the region. Like Mono Lake, it’s also a great place to do some hiking.  

If you want to spend some time on the water, you can always choose to rent a boat from the Convict Lake Resort Marina. At the marina, visitors can also rent stand-up paddle boards and kayaks. To do some fishing, you can always head to the bridge that is over Convict Creek. Just make sure you have the proper permit to do so. 

It’s possible to find dining options directly at the lake, with the Restaurant at Convict Lake and the Aspen Grill being two of the most popular eateries. There are a few different lodging choices as well, including the Convict Lake Campground, as well as the charming ​​Convict Lake Resort.  

Fall is known for being a particularly beautiful season at the lake, as this is when the area’s trees will change colors, allowing you to see a variety of red, orange and yellow leaves. 

Distance to next stop in miles: 37 miles (40 minutes)

To go to your next destination, the town of Bishop, you will continue on US-395 S. Things to see along the way include Red Mountain, as well as Wheeler Crest. If you want to do some hiking or just would like to have beautiful views of the area, these are great options. 

With interesting museums and local restaurants, Bishop is a good place to stop for a day or two. The town offers recreational activities, including fishing and hiking, as well as a rich Native American heritage and large mule population.

Bishop City Park is a great place to stop for a picnic, go on a walk, or just spend some time outdoors with the family. To learn more about the town’s unique history, you can always go to the Laws Railroad Museum & Historical Site, which has a museum that gives visitors a glimpse of life back in the early 20th century.  

Bishop has restaurants offering many types of cuisines, including classic American food and Mexican restaurants. Both the Bishop Creek Lodge and Astorga’s Mexican Grill can be found near the city center. The city also has several charming lodging options, with the Bishop Inn being a cozy choice.  

Bishop has quite a few annual events and festivals for visitors to enjoy, such as the Mule Days Celebration that takes place every year in May. 

Distance to next stop in miles: 150 miles (2.5 hours) 

The next stop on this road trip is Beatty, Nevada, which can be reached by taking CA-168 E, NV-266 E and US-95 S. If you would like to stop somewhere to grab a bite to eat or stretch your legs, you can always do so in Lida, a charming town that is about halfway between Bishop and Beatty. 

A rural town surrounded by the Mojave Desert, Beatty is the perfect place to stop before finishing the road trip in Las Vegas. Just a short driving distance from Death Valley National Park and Rhyolite ghost town, you will have no shortage of interesting things to see and explore.  

If you enjoy art, make sure to go to the Goldwell Open Air Museum that is home to a quirky collection of outdoor sculptures. There is also the Beatty Museum & Historical Society, where you can learn more about the town’s rich history. If you’re interested in the Gold Rush, make sure that you stop in Rhyolite, a ghost town that has also been a popular movie set.  

Stop in Beatty for traditional American cuisine at Death Valley Coffee Time, Gema’s Café or Mel’s Diner.There are also a few charming lodging options, such as the Atomic Inn and the Death Valley Getaway Cabins.  

Geocaching has become a popular pastime in Beatty, with there now being more than 130 geocache points within 30 miles of the city. For a unique way to discover the area, consider participating in some treasure hunting.  

Distance to next stop in miles: 118 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

To head to Las Vegas, you will take US-95 S. Along the way, you will pass by Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is a great area for hiking, mountain climbing or just taking a scenic drive. During the winter months, you can always stop at Charleston Peak for skiing.

Known for its casinos and world-class entertainment, Las Vegas is filled with a variety of attractions for you to see and visit. Whether you’re spending a night on the Las Vegas Strip, enjoying a gondola ride through the Venetian, or seeing the ​​Fountains of Bellagio, you’re sure to have a great time.  

To get great views of the surrounding region, head to the STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod, which has an observation tower that overlooks the city. For a unique experience, you can always go to the Neon Museum, which is home to a variety of vintage signs from old casinos and other businesses in the area.  

There are numerous types of food available in Las Vegas, including traditional American cuisine, Chinese and seafood. Some of the most popular restaurants in the city include Alder and Birch and 8 East. The town is also known for its cocktail bars, including Alexxa’s Bar and Beauty and Essex. There are numerous hotels to choose from, with the Flamingo and the Wynn being quite popular.  

Make sure to check what shows are going on at each hotel and casino, as Las Vegas is known for its concerts, dance performances, stand-up comedians and some of the finest outdoor attractions .

Book Las Vegas Car Rental

Sixt in the USA

• Dallas Airport
• Atlanta Airport
• Chicago Airport
• Denver Airport
• Houston Airport
• Minneapolis Airport
• SeaTac Airport
• Las Vegas Airport
• All Sixt US Locations
• Long-term car rental
• Luxury car rental

SIXT WORLDWIDE

All SIXT Services

Follow us on.

Drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas: 4 Road Trip Itineraries 2023

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• There are two route options for the drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas: the scenic route (10 hours, 561 miles via Yosemite) or the direct route (8.5 hours, 570 miles via I-5 and I-15).
• The notable stops on the scenic route are Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, and Death Valley National Park, while the direct route has fewer interesting stops.
• The scenic route is not an option in the winter due to the Tioga Pass closure, but Highway 99 is open year-round.

Do you need to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas? Then this post is written for you.

Planning the itinerary for your San Francisco to Las Vegas drive can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. 

We decided to make this in-depth guide for your road trip to Las Vegas from San Francisco to help make things easier for you. 

In this post, you will find everything you need to plan your drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas:

• Direct  and  Scenic  drive options for your road trip
• Best stops for each route
• Best places to eat and drink along the way
• Planning tips and essential packing list

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links meaning if you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. For more info  see our Disclosure Policy

Distance from San Francisco to Las Vegas by car

San Francisco is  570 miles away from Las Vegas via I-5 and I-15, and it would take 8 hours and 45 minutes of driving time to get there. 

You can take other routes, but this direct route is the fastest and most straightforward way of getting there.

San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

• Direct Route : 8.5 hours, 570 miles (via I-5 and I-15)
• Scenic Route : 10 hours, 561 miles (via Yosemite)

There are two routes that we recommend for your San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip. 

The first one is a scenic route filled with amazing views of the mountains, valleys, and lakes around the area. 

The scenic route is 1.5 hours longer than the direct one, but this is the itinerary to do if you want to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas via Yosemite . 

You’ll be able to stop by lots of pullouts and vista points with breathtaking views, beautiful pristine lakes, and famous national parks and other historical sites.

The second route is the fastest way to get from San Francisco to Las Vegas and is perfect for those who want the least amount of drive time even though it’s not the most scenic.

The direct route is only an 8.5-hour drive to Las Vegas. 

And while it’s not as scenic as the first route, we recommend this for those short on time or traveling during the wintertime , as Tioga Pass closes from November until May. 

We also included other alternative routes for you to consider, with lots of notable stops, including national parks, famous photo spots, museums, and historical sites that anyone of any age will surely enjoy.

Driving from San Francisco to Las Vegas Quick Snapshot

Drive from san francisco to las vegas – scenic route.

• Drive Time & Distance : 10 hours, 561 miles

If you’re looking for a scenic drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas , this route is about 561 miles long and would take about ten hours of drive time. 

We’ve included 11 of the best stops along this route and the best places to stop for gas, food, and coffee .

In this jam-packed itinerary, you’ll be able to stop by historical sites and the best natural wonders between San Francisco and Las Vegas. 

From iconic national parks and scenic lakes to ghost towns and unique trails, this incredibly scenic route will keep you entertained throughout your trip. 

You’ll be driving through Tioga Pass on this route, where you’ll find many pullouts with fantastic views. 

If you want to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas via Death Valley , then this is the route to take.

Tioga Pass is closed during winter , and the road conditions can be tough on some parts of Highway 395, so make sure to take the direct route instead.

Best Places to Stop Between San Francisco and Las Vegas – Scenic Route

• Stops for Gas : Oakdale, Groveland, Lee Vining, Bishop, Lone Pine
• Stops for Food and Coffee : Groveland, Lee Vining, Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, Lone Pine, Death Valley

Yosemite National Park 

The first stop on your road trip is Yosemite National Park , one of the best places to visit on your way to Las Vegas. 

Yosemite Valley is a destination in itself where you can spend multiple days exploring the area.

However, unless you’re visiting Yosemite in the shoulder season , we don’t recommend exploring the valley floor unless you have the time to spare.

The park will be extremely busy, and it will be tricky to get in and out of the valley.

Instead, we suggest stopping by Olmsted Point to see amazing views of Half Dome, Tenaya Lake, and Clouds Rest.

You can also stop by Tuolomne Grove to see the giant redwoods , which are very impressive. 

Tuolumne Meadows is perfect for a short scenic hike, while Tenaya Lake is a beautiful lake to check out. 

These stops can be visited quickly since they’re off the highway. 

Local Tip : Unless you have a National Park Pass , you will still need to pay the entrance fee, so save some time and get your pass online . 

Mono Lake is a beautiful saline soda lake just a 32-minute drive from Tuolumne Meadows. 

This is one of the oldest lakes in the western hemisphere and is home to trillions of brine shrimp and millions of birds. 

You’ll also find the world-famous tufa towers here, the beautiful and unusual rock formations that serve as habitats to Osprey, owls, and alkali flies.

This is a quick free stop that is cool to check out, go for a short walk and take some pictures.

Local Tip: You can stop by the Mono Lake Visitor Center to read more about the tufas, plus there are also restrooms you can use. 

Lee Vining 

Located on the southwest shore of Mono Lake is the small town of Lee Vining . It’s about a three-minute drive and 1.8 miles away from the lake. 

While there’s not much to see here, it’s the perfect place to stop for gas and provisions before continuing your trip.

June Lake Loop

Surrounded by a majestic mountainous backdrop, the June Lake Loop consists of a chain of four beautiful mountain lakes along a horseshoe-shaped canyon. 

These four lakes are June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake. 

You can stop by June Lake Beach for a quick picnic and dip your toes in the sand.

The view from the end of June Lake at Oh Ridge is one of the most photogenic areas in this loop. 

You can also swing by June Lake Brewing to grab some beers to load up in your ice chest.

Mammoth Lakes

Just 20 miles south of June Lake Loop is the town of Mammoth Lakes, one of the most scenic places in the Eastern Sierras. 

Known for its crystal clear mountain lakes and famous ski resort, this is one of the best places to visit on your road trip to Las Vegas from San Francisco. 

We also recommend stopping by the Devil’s Postpile , one of the best examples of columnar basalt worldwide, which is around 30 minutes away from Mammoth Lakes.

If you decide to break up your road trip and stay at Mammoth , make sure to check out the hot springs in the area , where you can even camp on-site .

Convict Lake

About 40 minutes from Mammoth Lakes is Convict Lake , which got its name after a group of convicts who escaped from prison came here to take refuge in 1971, resulting in a shootout with a posse who went after them.

It’s a beautiful lake known for its shimmering translucent waters and the large mountains surrounding it, making it a beautiful place to stop and enjoy the scenery. 

It’s one of the deepest lakes in the region and a popular trout fishing and hiking spot. There’s also a 2.5-mile-long trail around the lake with beautiful mountain views.

Lake Crowley

Lake Crowley is a reservoir created in 1941 when the City of Los Angeles built the Long Valley Dam. 

It’s about 10.3 miles from Convict Lake and has 45 miles of shoreline, making it a popular spot for fishing, boating, and seasonal watersports. 

The best thing to see at this spot is the Lake Crowley Stone Columns. You can drive there with a high clearance vehicle or hike about 4 miles round trip to get close to the columns.

The hike is a bit steep, sandy, and exposed so make sure to bring a bottle of water and lather on some sunscreen.

Although the mysterious columns are not always accessible due to the water levels, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Bishop 

Bishop is a small city located 42 minutes away from Lake Crowley. 

There’s not much to see here, but this is a great place to stop for gas and provisions before heading to your next destination.

The next stop on this itinerary is Lone Pine , which is 55 minutes away from Bishop. 

Located between the eastern peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the Inyo Mountains, this is where you’ll find the famous Alabama Hills , a beautiful landscape with different rock formations and eroded hills. 

The picturesque mountains surrounding it make for a breathtaking background, and you’ll find a lot of natural arches here that are perfect for quick photo ops. 

One of the most famous photo spots here is the Mobius Arch Loop Trail , which attracts photographers from all over the country. 

Death Valley National Park 

With captivating peaks and stunning dunes and canyons, Death Valley National Park is one of California’s most picturesque places. 

Even though this is the driest and hottest national park in America, this desert valley has a lot of hiking trails that have incredible views of the park’s landscape.

Make sure to visit the famous Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes , where you’ll find three types of dunes and Mesquite trees. 

Stop by the iconic Zabriskie Point , an elevated vista with spectacular views that make it the perfect place for sunrise and sunset views.

If you have more time, check out other famous spots like the Mosaic Canyon, Badwater Basin, and Artist’s Palette. The park’s entrance fee is $30 per vehicle.

Rhyolite Ghost Town

Rhyolite is a ghost town just one hour away from Death Valley National Park. 

It was once a booming town after high-grade and valuable gold ore was discovered here in 1905, but the financial panic of 1907, unfortunately, caused its downfall. 

Presently, you can still find remnants of the town’s glory days and the one-of-a-kind Goldwell Open air museum with seven sculptures created by a group of well-known Belgian artists. 

Aside from the sculpture park, Rhyolite Labyrinth is also a must-visit and a popular photo spot. 

San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive – Direct Route

• Drive Time & Distance : 8:22 hours, 570 miles ( via I-5 ), 8:45 hours, 580 miles ( via 99 S )

If you want the fastest route for your drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas, the direct route via I-5 and 99 S will get you there in less than nine hours . 

For this itinerary, we recommend driving via 99 South instead of I-5 .

Even though taking the I-5 is the most direct route and will be 15 minutes faster, there is nothing to see in between. 

While taking the 99 S route is not that scenic, there are still many stops worth checking out.

In this itinerary, you’ll be stopping by many interesting, historical, and unique places you and your family will enjoy. 

From aviation and fossil museums to underground gardens and art installations, this route has plenty to offer.

Best Places to Visit Between San Francisco and Las Vegas – Direct Route 

• Stops for Gas: Fresno, Bakersfield, Barstow
• Stops for Food and Coffee: Fresno, Bakersfield, Barstow

Castle Air Museum (Merced)

Castle Air Museum is one of the largest aerospace museums in the western United States that displays vintage aircraft. 

If you’re a military aircraft enthusiast, you will definitely enjoy your visit here. 

This museum has more than 50 aircraft, including an Air Force 1 that Reagan and Clinton used. 

There’s an entrance fee to the museum that includes a guided tour. 

Because this museum is outdoors , make sure to come on a cool and clear day to enjoy and explore this museum fully.

Fossil Discovery Center of Madera (Madera)

Just 40 minutes away from Castle Air Museum is the Fossil Discovery Center of Madera , which kids will enjoy. 

This is the site of one of the largest middle-Pleistocene fossil excavations in North America. 

From the center, you’ll see views of the current landfill operations and the paleontology dig that’s right beside it.

There are plenty of exhibits inside, including fossils, local rocks and minerals, and artifacts from the Yokuts, a local Native American tribe. 

There’s also the Mock Dig area where kids can excavate 22 replicas of some of the fossils found in this area.

Forestiere Underground Gardens (Fresno)

The Forestiere Underground Gardens is a great stop that both history buffs and nature enthusiasts would love. 

Not only will you see trees and vines growing in this underground garden, but you’ll also be walking through hand-built underground rooms and passageways with stone-built walls and arches. 

You’ll also see the underground home of Baldassare Forestiere, a Sicilian self-taught artist who created this historical landmark.

There’s no entrance fee here, but a guided tour is required because the rooms, passageways, and underground courtyards can confuse newcomers.  

You can book their tours online , and the prices range from $11 to $21.

Sun-Maid Raisins Store (Kingsburg) 

The Sun-Maid Raisins Store is a short and unique stop you can make in Kingsburg before heading to your next destination. 

Contrary to its name, this is a great place to stop for snacks and not just raisins. You’ll also find the world’s largest raisin box in this store.

Bakersfield 

From Kingsburg, the drive to the small town of Bakersfield will take about 1:40 minutes, and this is a great place to stop for gas and provisions . 

If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to stop by the California Living Museum .

Kids can ride the scenic Central California Children’s Railroad around the museum grounds, visit the ten-foot aquatic touch tank, or mingle with reptiles and domestic and farm animals. 

Barstow (Route 66)

After leaving Bakersfield, you’ll reach Barstow after about 2:40 hours of driving. This historic town was used as a mining center in the late 1800s. 

It is also a fascinating place to visit because the historic Route 66 runs right through its main street. 

This town has several historic local hotels and restaurants like the first Del Taco restaurant and Rosita’s Restaurant.

After exploring the main street, make sure also to check out the Route 66 Mother Road Museum , which contains a collection of historic photographs and artifacts. 

A short 20-minute drive from the museum is the Calico Ghost Town , which is another fun stop to make while you’re in the area.

Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve , just 55 minutes from Barstow, is one of the country’s most beautiful and diverse national parks . 

You’ll find dunes, canyons, mountains, volcanic cinder cones, former military mines and outposts, forests, and wildflowers inside this park.

One of the most popular and must-visit spots inside this park is the Mojave Desert Lava Tube . 

This is one of the few lava tubes to check out in California and is an excellent place for a quick hike. 

You can also check out Kelso Dunes and Mitchell Caverns if you have more time. Just make sure to plan ahead, as the cavern can only be visited through a guided tour.

Bonnie & Clyde’s Death Car 

You’ll be able to see Bonnie and Clyde’s iconic car up close inside the Primm Valley Resort and Casino . 

You’ll also find Clyde’s blood-spattered and torn shirt and other memorabilia surrounding the car. This is a short and fun stop for fans of the infamous duo.

Seven Magic Mountains

The final stop of this road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco is the famous Seven Magic Mountains , just ten miles south of Las Vegas. 

This is an art installation by the internationally renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone which consists of seven colorful stacked boulders that are more than 30 feet tall. 

This is an excellent place to stop for a quick photo op to check out these colorful towers. 

There is no entrance free, and no reservations are required, but it can sometimes get pretty crowded.

San Francisco and Las Vegas Road Trip: Best Places to Eat and Drink

Depending on road conditions, the drive from SF to Vegas takes anywhere between eight to eleven hours, so we compiled our top picks of the best places to eat and drink on the way there . 

You can choose between all of these restaurants based on your preferences. 

Most of them are quick detours , so you will be able to find them quickly, and you’ll be back on the road in no time.

Scenic Route: San Francisco to Las Vegas via Yosemite and Death Valley

About 2.5 hours from SF, this town just outside of Yosemite is a good stop to get some food.

• Iron Door Saloon – This historic restaurant is one of the oldest saloons in America and is known for its savory dishes like buffalo and bison burgers.
• Mountain Sage – The perfect stop for a pick-me-up before hitting the road, this coffee shop serves high-quality coffee and delicious baked goods. 
• Mono Cone – This burger joint is one of the best in the area and is famous for its mouthwatering burgers, milkshakes, and ice cream.
• Tom’s Place – This adorable cafe near the Mammoth Lakes serves savory food and great coffee. This prime rib steak is a must-try!
• Eric Schat’s Bakery – This famous bakery is known for its delicious sandwiches, like turkey and mule kick sandwiches, pot pies, and pull-apart bread.
• Looney Bean – One of the best coffee shops in the area, it has tons of delicious drinks like the Dirty Hippie, spiced chai latte, and vanilla latte. 
• Black Sheep Coffee Roasters – If you’re craving espresso and espresso drinks or looking to buy coffee beans, this place is highly recommended and raved about.
• Tacos Los Hermanos Food Truck – If you’re looking for a quick stop for lunch, this food truck is famous for its delicious meaty, juicy tacos. 
• Alabama Hills and Bakery – This cafe and bakery are known for their delicious pastries, and their breakfast burrito and chicken fried steak are crowd favorites.

Death Valley

• Stovepipe Wells General Store – One of the very few stores in this area, it has an excellent selection of drinks and snacks for your road trip.

Direct Route via 99 S: Road Trip to Las Vegas from San Francisco 

• Triangle Drive-in (W Belmont Ave) – This small fast food joint serves delicious and juicy burgers, chili dogs, and sandwiches at an affordable price.
• Valparaiso Cafe & Roastery – Perfect for a quick energy boost, this cafe and roastery have excellent pour-over coffee and interesting drinks that you can choose from.

Bakersfield

• Porkchop & Bubba’s BBQ – Famous for their award-winning BBQ, this restaurant also serves delicious sandwiches and savory BBQ sauces, like the raspberry chipotle sauce, that you can also purchase.
• Rosemary’s Family Creamery – This place has a fantastic selection of delicious ice cream and sundaes. Make sure to try their famous caramel sauce.
• In-N-Out – If you want something easy and delicious, then this stop is for you.
• Jenny’s Mexican Grill Steak & Mariscos – This restaurant serves hearty Mexican food at an affordable price. Make sure to try their huevos rancheros, Asada burritos, and Menudo.
• Roy’s Cafe – Head to this small family-owned diner for filling meals and hot coffee. Their french toast, sandwiches, burritos, and street tacos are amazing.

Other Routes for a San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive

San Francisco to Las Vegas via Death Valley

• Drive Time & Distance : 10:45, 663 miles

If you’re going on your road trip during wintertime and Tioga Pass is closed, this is an excellent alternative itinerary. 

This route starts from SF and passes through the I-5 south to Highway 14 to 190 east (Death Valley) and Red Rock Canyon . 

The entire drive would take about 10:45 hours and a driving distance of 663 miles .

While this route is not as scenic as driving through Tioga Pass, there are still lots of fun and breathtaking stops that you can take along the way.  

If you’re planning on exploring Death Valley and Red Rock Canyon , the wintertime is a great time to explore those two desert parks. 

From San Francisco, you can also stop by Kettleman, Bakersfield, Tehachapi, Ridgecrest, Ballarat Ghost Town, Stovepipe Wells, Furnace Creek, and Pahrump before heading to Las Vegas. 

Kettleman and Bakersfield are great places to stop for gas and provisions and stretch your legs. 

SF to Las Vegas via Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park

• Drive Time & Distance : 12.5 hours, 700 miles

If you’re planning on visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and don’t mind the long drive, this route is the best choice for you. 

This is the longest route on this list, taking 12.5 hours and 700 miles to get from San Francisco to Las Vegas.

From San Francisco, you’ll pass by Merced, Madera, Fresno, and Kingsburg before reaching Kings Canyon. 

The drive on General’s Highway to Sequoia National Park has steep, narrow, and winding roads . 

If you want to avoid this section, you can skip Sequoia National Park and just drive on King’s Canyon scenic byway from Fresno to the end of the road at King’s Canyon instead.

After leaving Kings Canyon, you can also stop by Bakersfield, Tehachapi, and Barstow before reaching Las Vegas. 

You can also stop by the places we recommended on the direct route via 99 South.

Local Tip: Avoid paying the entrance fee at Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park and get yourself an annual National Park Pass for under $80.

Best time to do a Road Trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas

The best time to do a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip depends on your preferred route. 

If you want to do a scenic drive via Yosemite, avoid the wintertime because Tioga Pass is closed. 

If you’re planning to see Death Valley and Red Rock Canyon , avoid the summertime , as it gets scorching in the desert. The direct route via 99 South is open all year round.

Las Vegas to San Francisco Drive

If you’re driving from Las Vegas to San Francisco, you can simply reverse the itineraries on this list. 

Just be mindful of the weather and possible road closures along the way. 

As we mentioned earlier, Tioga Pass is closed in winter , so it’s best to avoid that route and take 99 South instead if you’re driving during those months.

San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Essentials 

• Roadside Emergency kit
• First Aid Kit
• Car charger 
• Power Inverter
• Portabl e Car Jump Starter
• Plug-in Ice Chest

Other Road Trips from San Francisco

After spending some time exploring the City by the Bay and staying at amazing suites with skyline views, it’s time to explore other parts of the coast.

There a plenty of other fun road trips from San Francisco to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for.

If you want to stay on the coast, you can drive to the town of Monterey and go whale watching.

Further down south along the Pacific Coast Highway , you can also drive to Big Sur for more epic views of the ocean.

Another option is to do a road trip to Lake Tahoe for a relaxing weekend getaway by staying at a lakeside resort .

FAQs: Drive San Francisco to Las Vegas

How far is san francisco to las vegas.

The distance between San Francisco and Las Vegas is 570 miles, and takes 8 hours and 45 minutes of drive time.

Is it safe to drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas?

Yes, it is definitely safe to drive to Las Vegas from San Francisco. The roads are clear and well-paved with plenty of beautiful places to stop in between. 

Is driving to Vegas cheaper than flying?

Driving to Vegas is definitely cheaper than flying, but the travel time is twice as long, and you’d be driving for more than eight hours. 

However, you have to factor in how much it will cost you for gas, especially if you’re also renting a car . 

If you plan ahead of time, you can score some good flight deals to Vegas from SFO for less than $120 round trip. 

What is halfway between San Francisco and Las Vegas?

Bakersfield is the town that is halfway between San Francisco and Las Vegas. It’s a good place to stop for gas and provisions or take a short break to stretch your legs. 

You will find local cafes and restaurants, but other than that, there isn’t much else to do in the area.  

Wrap-Up: San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive

Your itinerary for your drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas can make or break your trip, depending on how well you plan and prepare for it. 

Road trips are fun, so make sure to use our guide and check out all the fantastic stops and restaurants we’ve included so you can have a hassle-free road trip that you’ll remember for years to come.

Gabriel is the head writer for Chef Travel Guide and has been featured in the Huffington Post, Martha Stewart, Eat This, Not That, Real Simple, Muscle and Health, and many more. He was born and raised in California and has worked as a professional restaurant chef for over 20 years. After escaping the “kitchen life”, he is now focused on his passion for the outdoors and world travel. Gabriel’s passions include trail running and hiking on California's incredible trails, camping in the redwoods, and exploring the golden state from the Eastern Sierras to the rugged North Coast.

Similar Posts

San Francisco to Big Sur Road Trip [Scenic Drive + Best Places to Stop]

This San Francisco to Big Sur Road trip itinerary lists the best stops to see along the Pacific Coast Highway. This scenic drive is a must!

Carmel to Big Sur: 19 Best Stops You Don’t Want to Miss

Driving from Carmel to Big Sur? This day trip itinerary features the best stops in Big Sur for an epic California road trip on the coast.

Lake Tahoe to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary [The Best Stops]

This Lake Tahoe to Yosemite road trip itinerary features the best stops and lots of helpful planning tips for your drive to Yosemite National Park.

San Francisco to Lake Tahoe Road Trip [Best Stops]

A San Francisco to Lake Tahoe Road trip itinerary featuring the best places to stop between SF and Lake Tahoe.

Renting a Car Under 25 in California [w/ Rental Car Companies]

If you need a guide in renting a car under 25 in California, this post will answer all your questions and help you find the best rental car companies for your road trip.

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip [Scenic Drive + Best Places to Stop]

The best itinerary for a San Francisco to Yosemite Road trip featuring two routes with the best places to stop.

San Francisco to Las Vegas

With an iconic starting and ending point and some spectacular places in between, a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip is one of the best road trips in the U.S. And doing the trip in your RV or campervan just makes it that much more exciting.

On this journey you will leave San Francisco and head north to Napa Valley, then drive across California to Yosemite National Park. After spending some time in Yosemite, you will drive south to Sequoia National Park, and from there you will head down to Death Valley. Your second to last stop will be Hoover Dam, which is about 45 minutes away from your final stop, Las Vegas.

1014 Miles / 1631 KM trip distance

5 day roadtrip

Camper Van recommended

Napa Valley

One of the most renowned wine destinations in the world, Napa Valley attracts wine lovers, foodies, and people who appreciate beautiful scenery. The region is home to around 400 wineries, charming towns, fantastic restaurants, and gorgeous landscapes. There are numerous campgrounds in Napa Valley, including several that accommodate RVs and campervans.

A road trip through northern California would not be complete without a visit to one of the most beautiful places in the U.S., Yosemite National Park. The park stuns with jaw-dropping cliffs, rock formations, sequoia trees, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore the scenery a number of ways—from hiking to horseback riding to rafting. Yosemite has 10 campgrounds that can accommodate RVs and trailers of various lengths. Note that electrical, water, and sewer hookup are not available in Yosemite, but there are dump stations with fresh water at several campgrounds.

Sequoia National Park

Next up is Sequoia National Park, known for its towering sequoia trees, which are among the oldest living things on the planet. The park is home to General Sherman, the world’s largest tree and the oldest living thing on earth. However, the sequoias are not the park’s only draw; visitors can also explore stunning mountains, canyons, and caverns.  

Death Valley

At 3.4 million acres, Death Valley is the largest national park in the U.S. outside of Alaska. It is also the “hottest, driest, and lowest national park,” according to the National Park System , and one of the hottest places in the world. Must-see places in Death Valley include Badwater Basin, a salt flat and the lowest point in the U.S.; Artists Drive, a nine-mile drive through beautiful, colorful hills; and Devils Golf Course, a huge flat area of jagged rocks. Lastly, don’t miss Zabriskie Point, the park’s most famous viewpoint.

Located on the Colorado River, the Hoover Dam helps power three states: California, Arizona, and Nevada. Built between 1931 and 1936, during the Great Depression, the dam was an engineering feat. Hoover Dam remains the tallest concrete dam and the second tallest dam overall in the U.S. It is open every day of the year except Christmas and Thanksgiving, and there are tours for visitors.

Las Vegas is more than just Sin City, although there are plenty of ways to sin there. In addition to the city’s 150,000 hotel rooms and over 100 casinos, Las Vegas offers incredible restaurants and bars, unique museums, a wide array of excellent shows, and thrilling attractions like rollercoasters and ziplines. There are also several RV parks in and around Las Vegas.

Drive safely and have a fantastic trip!

Check out more San Francisco road trip itineraries for more ideas on your epic campervan journey!

Our Travel Guides

Guide to the best campgrounds usa, beginner's guide to travelling around usa, guide to free camping in the usa, find your nearest travellers autobarn location, road trips & travel tips.

Las Vegas Campervan Trip: Experience the Best of the Southwest

Las Vegas to Death Valley

Miami to Key West

Our campervans.

Tent Optional

Chairs Optional

Ice Box Optional

Ext. Table Opt.

Gas Cooker Opt.

Kuga Campervan

Seats 2-3 • sleeps 2-3.

Solar panel

Hi5 Campervan

Seats 4-5 • sleeps 4-5.

Hi-Top Campervan

Sign up for special deals and awesome road trip itineraries, data collection policy.

Destination:

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

3 weeks with my GF - San Francisco to Las Vegas in September - Road Trips Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Road Trips Forums

3 weeks with my GF - San Francisco to Las Vegas in September

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Road Trips forum

Me and my GF are going to the US in September for 22 days. We are currently drawing up an itinerary and would love some input from you knowledgeable folks! Nothing is set in stone, except that we land in San Francisco and fly home from Las Vegas 22 days later.

Below are two iterations of the itinerary, one which favors an extra day at both Yosemite and SEKI. Whereas the other sacrifices those two days to experience more of the west coast and coastal redwoods. I have also attached Furkot links for each itinerary!

Looking forward to hear any input from you folks!

https://trips.furkot.com/ts/lCYj1u

Land in SF at noon

Drive up to Miur Woods for a couple of hours

Drive down to Modesto and spend the night and buy supplies for the road

Drive down to Sequioa NP

Hike in SEKI

Drive to Yosemite NP

Hike in Yosemite

Drive to Mono Lake through Tioga Pass towards Bishop

Drive to Stovepipe Wells

Spend the morning in Death Valley NP

Drive to Las Vegas

Shoot some guns

Getting married

Drive towards Zion NP

Hike in Zion NP

Drive to Page

Drive to Monument Valley

Swim in Lake Powell

Stay the night in Page

Drive to Grand Canyon NP

Drive to Sedona

Drive to Las Vegas and see Hoover Dam

Spend the day in Vegas

Fly home at 16pm

https://trips.furkot.com/ts/VYiZdV

Drive north to Fort Bragg

Drive north to Humboldt SP through Avenue of Giants

Hike the Bull Creek Flats for a couple of hours

Stay the night in Arcata

13 replies to this topic

You need parking reservations for Muir (not Miur) Woods and entry reservations for Yosemite on weekends. It might be more convenient to visit Henry Cowell Redwoods and then to drive toward Sequoia NP.

Do you have a friend in Modesto to visit? It is usually not on anyone's itinerary.

You need lodging reservations for pretty much all these destinations. September is still quite popular for travel. And it's still quite warm.

suggest staying in June Lake Loop or Mammoth Lakes instead of Bishop.

https://junelakeloop.com/

https://www.visitmammoth.com/

for gun ranges in Las Vegas

https://stripgunclub.com/our-facility/

You can drive from Las Vegas to Zion easily in one day. Try to stay in the park,

You could see Valley of Fire on the drive there.

https://travelnevada.com/parks-recreational-areas/valley-of-fire-state-park/

for Grand Canyon stay in the park or if no room nearby town of Tusayan

for the drive back to Las Vegas you could also see Bearizonia and Oatman

https://bearizona.com/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g31295-d10801088-Reviews-Oatman_Ghost_Town-Oatman_Arizona.html

just some suggestions - enjoy your trip

A few comments and suggestions on Option 1.

You want to actually end up in Springdale, Utah/Zion on Day 14. It's a three hour drive, no stops, from Vegas. You'll lose an hour on the clock entering Utah.

You shouldn't skip Bryce Canyon NP. It's a more important destination than anything you are doing in Page. You would go to Bryce after Zion and before you drive to Page.

Without getting in a boat and exploring Lake Powell, the only access you will have for swimming is from Lone Rock Beach. You'll pass Lone Rock Beach on the way to Page.

For the best experience at Monument Valley, you should really stay over night there.

Sedona should have a minimum of two nights. Folks on the Arizona forum will tell you that three nights is better. Perhaps you should skip going there.

You can see the red rocks area of Sedona in a day - of course many stay a week.

Sedona is nice and we've stayed as short as a day.

do try to do a pink jeeps tour while there.

Day 2: Good Lord. Why Modesto? It’s not a bad city but the hotel situation is GRIM. Rent a car , spend the morning at Muir Woods, and just drive to Kings Canyon. If you absolutely don’t want to stay that far, spend the night in Clovis or Northeast Fresno, which are about 3.5 hours’ drive from Muir Woods across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (toll-free headed eastbound as you will be). Grant Grove Village in Kings Canyon National Park is about another hour and a quarter east of Clovis.

Day 3: You don’t need a whole day to go from Modesto (again, though, WHYYYYY) to SEKI.

Day 6: From Sequoia to Yosemite is going to take you longer than Google Maps tells you. Count on five hours and be happy if it takes less than six. Flatlanders tend to drive very slowly in the mountains, and flatlander tourists doubly so.

Day 9: Someone else has already given you the correct advice: June Lake Loop or Mammoth Lakes, or just suck it up and go to Bishop. Don’t miss Bodie, though.

Day 14: Leave after breakfast, park at your hotel (you should stay in Springdale, Utah), and spend the afternoon seeing some of the easier-accessed sights in Zion.

Day 16: Go to Bryce Canyon for a night first. Stay either at the lodge inside the park or at one of the two Best Western hotels outside the gate. Do not stay in Panguitch unless you have no choice (it’s far and it’s a bad idea to drive at night due to open-range livestock and wildlife in the road, there are literally millions of deer).

Day 17: You need an overnight at either Goulding’s Lodge or The View in Monument Valley. Swimming in Lake Powell… in September, the water level is likely to be low, so check about conditions before you go in. You don’t seem to be doing anything else in Page, so I’m gonna say don’t stay the night there.

Day 19: You’ll want two or even three days in Sedona. On the way south from Flagstaff, stop at the scenic area at the top of the canyon (you’ll see signs) and you can buy Indigenous-made crafts. The state is pretty good about making sure the vendors are Indigenous people selling their own crafts, not made-in-China knockoffs.

Day 20: Hoover Dam is a 30-minute stop-off. The tour is a dam bore.

Fixing your shiz:

Land in SF, customs and immigration, take BART into the city.

Hike in SEKI (try to stay in the park)

Drive to Yosemite NP (make hotel reservations NOW)

Drive to Bishop via Tioga Pass, stopping at Bodie and June Lake

Drive to Death Valley, stay in Stovepipe Wells (it will be hot - could be 50ºC)

Morning in DVNP, drive to Las Vegas

Shoot guns, knock around Vegas

Get married

Drive to Springdale, short hike in Zion NP

Hike in Zion NP, drive to Bryce Canyon NP

Morning at BCNP, drive to Monument Valley

Morning at MV, drive across the Navajo Nation to Desert View Drive to GCNP (stay inside the park or else in Tusayan, and nowhere else)

Sunrise at GCNP, drive to Sedona

Drive to Las Vegas, stopping at Hoover Dam

A couple of things:

1. As I mentioned in #5, do not drive between dusk and dawn except for very short distances, and slowly. You will not see a Black Angus heifer lying on the pavement in the dark around a curve until it is too late to stop.

2. It will be miserably hot in many of the places you are going. I do not know where you are coming from, but if it's from Europe, you are in for some unpleasant shocks. The temperature will be well above 30º everywhere you go except San Francisco, will be above 40º in much of your drive, and could be as much as 50º in Death Valley.

4. Make absolutely sure you have plenty of water with you, both in the car and most especially when hiking. Heat deaths happen every year. Don't let this be you. If you don't want to spend the money on bottled water, every national park lodge and visitor center has filtered tap water and a bottle filler. Restaurants will give you as much ice water as you want.

5. Mind your speed in small towns along the way. Speeding tickets are very expensive.

The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (SEKI) is worth visiting for a day.

Roaring River Falls, Kings Canyon National Park

Grizzly Falls

Thank you all for your feedback! I have tried to reply to you all directly but it seems as I have been limited regarding posting so I will reply to you all in one post instead (sorry!). Here's hoping I'm allowed to post this time...

First off all I want to reiterate that the itinerary is just a rough draft, resulting in a quite rudimentary plan which I hope will encourage feedback on interesting places along the way - which seems to have been successful based on your responses!

Regarding Modesto, it was just a place with a Walmart in an arbitrary distance between SF and SEKI. While I am an experienced driver and have done a couple of one-day 62 mile drives back home in Sweden, I am trying to not be overconfident in my driving abilities in a foreign country.

We are aiming to make reservations for lodging as soon as possible, we really just need to flesh out the itinerary so we get the dates right. I have also made calendar events roughly 90 days prior to when we will arrive at the parks requiring reservation to be sure we won't miss that.

Appreciate the tips in #7, perhaps it might be better to drive through Death Valley and just make a short stop to feel the heat. #8 Highway 180 in Cedar Grove is closed and expected to open in June, if that would be open for sure during our stay that could warrant another night in SEKI. How has it looked in the past, have they usually managed to stick to the expected opening date?

We have updated our Itinerary somewhat, trying to add in more places we have found interesting but had not added in Furkot. Also bringing in your feedback and making some changes related to that. We've put 3 nights in Sedona just because that's what we were left with after editing our stops, might be nice to wind down after the long journey and stay in one place for a few nights. What do you think? Otherwise those nights could be placed elsewhere, for example one extra night in the Eastern Sierras, and an extra night or two in any of the NPs. Perhaps there's some hidden gems along the way which are worth a night or two, or if there's an alternative to Sedona?

Thanks again for all your invaluable feedback!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://trips.furkot.com/ts/kaEHzb

Visit some stores and buy supplies and necessities for the road

Drive north to Fort Bragg and stay the night

Drive down to Fresno/Clovis and spend the night

Drive to SEKI

Hike in Yosemite NP

Drive through Tioga Pass towards June Lake/Mammoth Lake

Stop at Tuolumne Meadows

Stop at Bodie

Spend the night in June Lake/Mammoth Lake

Hike to Devils Postpile

Drive to Lone Pine

Stop at Manzanar

Stop at Alabama Hills

Spend the night in Lone Pine

Drive through Death Valley

Stop a short while in Death Valley NP

Drive to Valley of Fire SP and do a short hike

Drive to Zion NP

Morning hike in Zion NP

Drive to Bruce Canyon NP

Short morning hike in Bruce Canyon NP

Drive towards Page

Stop at Horseshoe Bend

Spend the morning in Monument Valley

Morning hike in Grand Canyon NP

Visit Slide Rock State Park

Hike in Red Rock State Park

Visit Bearizona

Drive to Las Vegas through Hoover Dam

Spend the night in Vegas

Looks good.

Arcata is fine to stay at - there is also Trinidad near by (Prarie creek state park and the elk are worth visiting)'

https://www.exploretrinidadca.com/

• Cheap tickets Poland - Denmark 5:17 am
• Best route 2:42 am
• Washington DC to Atlanta 2:41 am
• FL to MN in August 2024 recommendations 2:17 am
• I-80W for an older Rav-4? 12:40 am
• 21 Day Road Trip from MN to Grand Canyon & Yosemite 12:36 am
• Texas (Flight to Houston) - New Orleans - Nashville 10:28 pm
• Help me choose a road trip itinarary please! yesterday
• Did you know discovercars.com is a scam? yesterday
• Salt Lake City to Denver yesterday
• 8 seater can rentals yesterday
• 16 days Roadtrip - Southwest USA Apr 24, 2024
• Road Trip To India - Emmanuel Katto Apr 24, 2024
• Best way to get from myrtle beach from toronto Apr 23, 2024
• Planning a road trip
• Tips for driving in the USA
• Tips for foreigners: Renting or buying a vehicle in the USA?
• Suggestions for a South West USA road trip
• Suggestions for an East Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a West Coast USA Road Trip
• Suggestions for a 'Deep South' road trip
• What are safety concerns and precautions when experiencing nature in North America?
• What should I pack for a road trip in the USA.?
• Do I need to book hotels ahead or can I book hotels as I travel?
• Should I rent an RV to save money on a road trip?
• Route 66 - how long do I need and where should I stop?
• Planning a road trip- lodging in the national parks
• Thinking of a long, family road trip in the west? Read this trip report for ideas
• Road trip ideas from Memphis down thru MS to New Orleans
• ***Visiting Canada From the USA***
• Cannabis - Entering Canada
• Campervan Tips for a Road Trip

9 of the best road trips in the USA

US road trips remain ever-present on travel bucket lists the world over.

A true pillar of American folklore, their routes are steeped in history and paint a picture of the USA through the ages, from the Gold Rush to the Cold War.

In the modern day, these routes remain on the travel lists of Americans and tourists alike, all longing to head out on the open road to discover vibrant cities, desert plains, attractive coastlines and enormous mountain ranges.

In a nation that stretches over 3,000 miles from east to west, there are hundreds of routes to take you across the country, whether you want to follow the coast north from California or take a more remote route in Alaska.

Lesser known odysseys such as Route 101 or the Lincoln Highway quickly capture the imagination, while famed highways such as Route 66 dominate the dreams of would-be road trippers. To help you decide which route suits you, we’ve rounded up a list of the best trips across the country.

Chicago to Santa Monica

The USA’s most famous route has been immortalised via a combination of pop culture and nostalgia, despite no longer officially being classified as highway. Today, it remains the holy grail of US road trips.

Stretching for around 2,500 miles from Chicago to the beachfront of Santa Monica (just next to Los Angeles), it provides a taste of times gone by in the US, from kitsch gas stations to the Wild West-like emptiness of the Arizona and New Mexico desert.

This retro feeling is lost at either end of the ‘Mother Road’, especially when arriving into LA, but the marked contrast means that those travelling the route get to experience a quintessential slice of the States, including beautiful desert landscapes, the vintage Americana of Texas and two of the country’s foremost modern cities.

Read more on North America travel :

• The best time to visit Hawaii for a holiday – and how to avoid the rain
• Affordable New York: How to do the notoriously expensive city on a budget
• Canada travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

The Great River Road

Minnesota to louisiana.

This winding route follows the equally serpentine Mississippi River for a total of over 2,300 miles through 10 states. It starts (or ends) in Louisiana, near the Gulf of Mexico, before coursing through Mississippi, Tennessee and ending up in Minnesota, near the Canadian border.

At its start, the route takes travellers across two of of the US’s most famous cities. It begins in New Orleans , the centre of Cajun and Creole culture, and shortly after passes through the capital of blues, soul and rock’n’roll: Memphis , Tennessee.

The rest of the route is renowned for showcasing an abundance of different natural landscapes that only a country as geographically diverse as the US could provide. The wetlands and bayous of Mississipi and Louisiana, including the Atchafalaya Basin, will be the most alien environment to many visitors, with a distinctly eerie, almost rainforest-like feel.

Following along the Mississippi, drivers will see flat plains, mountains and extensive woodland as the route crosses Arkansas, Kentucky, Iowa and Wisconsin, before finishing in Minnesota, “the Land of 10,000 Lakes”.

Lincoln Highway

New york to san francisco.

Though no longer in existence as a single route, a little research will help you take on a section – or all – of the 3,389-mile long transcontinental route that was originally conceived in the 1910s. The route started in New York City and extended all the way to Lincoln Park in San Francisco , taking in 14 states including Ohio, Illinois, Nebraska, Utah and Nevada. Today, much of the road is now Route 30, from Pennsylvania to Wyoming – avoid the freeways of the I-80 for a trip with less motorway and more character.

Today, driving the route is easier in some states than others due to different standards in maintaining the route’s heritage, but this highway will take you across roughly 700 cities and towns, from small-time American settlements to big-hitters like Chicago and Pittsburgh. Along the way, you can learn about the history of both the highway and early America, visit 19th-century mining towns and see some delightful nature, including parts of Lake Tahoe and the Utah desert.

Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington

Route 101 traces the US’s Pacific Coast from California up into Washington, offering some of the best coastal views in the country. Though it technically starts in Los Angeles , you can begin the route from near the Mexican border, close to San Diego, all the way up to the border with Canada.

The route is split into different sections of road in each state. The first section is California State Route 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, which offers the first uninterrupted sightings of the turquoise waters of the Pacific. It carries on through San Francisco and across the Golden Gate Bridge, passing through the famous wine regions of the Napa Valley and Sonoma County, before picking up the Oregon 101.

Oregon’s coast is home to raw natural beauty, captured in the rugged, unspoilt coastline of areas like Cannon Beach and the valleys of the Columbia River. You continue along the river as you enter Washington, eventually circling the Olympic Peninsula and its mountains before finishing near Olympia’s State Capitol Building.

Richardson Highway

Valdez to fairbanks.

Shorter than many US trips, but certainly no less scenic, the Richardson Highway extends for “just” 364 miles between the cities of Valdez and Fairbank. Alaska offers some of the wildest natural landscapes in America, perhaps best compared to parts of Iceland when viewing its large glaciers, towering peaks, dramatic gorges, steep waterfalls and the Valdez glacier lake.

Various locations offer a host of activities such as white water rafting, hiking, fishing and even ice climbing (as well as views of the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline). Both Valdez and Fairbanks have a range of things to keep you busy too, from lake cruises and whale watching to skiing and Northern Lights spotting.

The Atlantic Coast

New york to florida keys.

Another road trip that gets to roughly 2,000 miles but can easily be split up into manageable sections, a trip down the Atlantic Coast is a worthy alternative to its Pacific counterpart. There is no defined route, with some beginning as far north as Bar Harbor in Maine, and others starting in NYC . If you do start in Maine, you’ll have the option to explore Boston, Rhode Island and the Hamptons, as well as the Big Apple.

Continuing south towards Miami , you can travel through Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and Atlantic City, the East’s answer to Las Vegas. If you stick to the coast rather than heading to the capital, you’ll go through Delaware before crossing a tiny section of the Atlantic over into Virginia Beach.

Carrying on through North and South Carolina, you’ll eventually reach Florida , first via Jacksonville and then Orlando if you fancy a small detour. From Miami you’re on the home stretch, but not before you cross arguably the highlight of the entire trip – the 113-mile Overseas Highway, which extends over the Atlantic between Miami and Key West, the final stop.

Road to Hana

Hana to kahului.

Hawaii may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of road trips, with the Polynesian-influenced State home to a fascinating local culture, laid-back towns and coastline so picturesque it’s scarcely believable. But one small route stands out on Maui that’s as beautiful as those famed beaches – the Hana Highway, which links the towns of Hana and Kahului.

Running for just 64 miles, this coastal route usually takes around three hours to drive due to speed limitations and around 600 bends, winding through dense jungle and passing over imposing cliffs while tantalisingly close to the emerald waters of the Pacific.

Western Highlights

San francisco to las vegas.

This trip takes in some of the US’s most famous landmarks and cities, passing through California , Nevada and Arizona.

Begin in charming San Francisco, where innovation, forward-thinking and counterculture have combined to form a bohemian city backed by national landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. The first stop on your route will be Yosemite National Park, a land of surreal landscapes including giant sequoias, the 914-metre vertical rock face of El Capitan and North America’s tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls.

Continue on a slightly longer drive southeast towards Los Angeles, where you’ll need a few days to take in the sights of Hollywood, Santa Monica, Malibu and the rest, before continuing on to the Grand Canyon via the I-10 or I-40 freeways.

Red rock hills and desert plains will quickly come into sight before you reach what is undeniably one of America’s most famous, and impressive, natural sites. Explore, hike and marvel at the vast sandstone cliffs and winding waterways, before spending the night in a rustic mountain cabin. This grandiose trip finishes in equally extravagant Las Vegas , the US’s undisputed home of hedonism.

Read our reviews of the best USA hotels

From news to politics, travel to sport, culture to climate – The Independent has a host of free newsletters to suit your interests. To find the stories you want to read, and more, in your inbox, click here .