To really experience everything in California’s National Parks, you need one thing and that’s time. Unfortunately, that’s one of the most precious things we have. It's not renewable and usually isn't free and available on our calendars. For those that fit this category, we give you a way to experience THREE of California’s National Parks via the Majestic Mountain Loop.
The concept is simple. Provide you a three-day itinerary to see some of the biggest attractions in Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Got a bit more time? We give you alternatives so you can fit in a few more of the nation’s treasures as well.
If you’re flying to see the sights, the closest and easiest airport is the Fresno-Yosemite Airport. From here, it’s a quick hop, skip, and a roll to the first attraction on the Majestic Mountain Loop.
From the airport or better yet Visalia as your basecamp, you’ll head up into Sequoia National Park. You’ll feast your eyes on things like the General Sherman Tree – the LARGEST living thing on the planet. Then take in the scenic vistas of the Great Western Divide from Moro Rock. Lastly, drive through the infamous Tunnel Log which was created when an elder statesman of the forest fell across the road in 1937.
Leaving once again from your basecamp of Visalia, you’ll now head north to Kings Canyon and to see what John Muir called a “rival to the Yosemite” valley. Highlights of this beautiful park include the second largest sequoia tree in the world – General Grant. The Boyden Cavern featuring gorgeous stalagmites and stalactites in caves called the Pancake Room and Upside-Down City. And you'll finish things off at the Road’s End. Just like it sounds, this is the jumping off point for many of the famous trails such as Bubbs Creek and Lewis Creek Trails.
Click here for the full day’s itinerary.
Last, but in no way least is Yosemite. From the pleasant town of Oakhurst, you’ll enter the southern gateway of Yosemite. This day’s adventures feature attractions like the largest stand of Giant Sequoias in the park and inspiration for starting the National Park system – the Mariposa Grove. Other highlights include Yosemite Falls (North America's tallest waterfall), Glacier Point which overlooks Yosemite Valley at nearly three thousand feet above it and Tunnel View. Tunnel View was made famous by none other than Ansel Adams.
Click here for the full day’s itinerary or better yet explore the hidden gems or deep dive into some of the classics in Yosemite.
Like a flight of beers or an appetizer platter, the Majestic Mountain Loop gives you a sample of what each of these parks has to offer. And just like that tidbit, you’ll want to return to get a full pour & main entrée of each park to truly appreciate what they have to offer.
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Alex founded localfreshies.com® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.