{"id":161044,"date":"2026-05-14T19:34:20","date_gmt":"2026-05-14T17:34:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=161044"},"modified":"2026-05-15T13:29:10","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T11:29:10","slug":"west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"West Coast USA Road Trip: 14\u201321 Day Itinerary (LA \u2192 San Francisco)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>I&#8217;ve done this west coast USA road trip three times now and I&#8217;d do it again in a heartbeat \u2014 the American West is that one place where reality actually looks better than those over-filtered Instagram photos. If you can, give yourself at least 3 weeks, especially if you&#8217;re flying from the UK. It&#8217;ll be the trip of a lifetime. Driving through Utah&#8217;s red canyons, nights under the stars in Death Valley, giant sequoias that make you feel like ants, and to cap it all off, fog rolling over the Golden Gate Bridge. <strong>Basically a road movie, except you&#8217;re the main character.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, you&#8217;ll find a complete day-by-day itinerary for a 14\u201321 day west coast USA road trip \u2014 with specific stops, restaurants, accommodation tips and prices. I&#8217;ll tell you when to go, what car to rent, how much the whole thing costs, and what to watch out for. Whether you have two weeks or three, you can tailor the route to suit you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu.jpg\" alt=\"Couple at the summit above the clouds\" class=\"wp-image-160682\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/haleakala-par-na-summitu-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_the_west_coast_USA\" >When to go and how to get to the west coast USA<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Best_time_for_a_road_trip\" >Best time for a road trip<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#How_to_get_to_Los_Angeles\" >How to get to Los Angeles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Car_and_rental\" >Car and rental<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost_where_to_stay\" >How much does a west coast USA road trip cost + where to stay<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Estimated_budget_for_21_days_for_two\" >Estimated budget for 21 days for two<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#America_the_Beautiful_Pass\" >America the Beautiful Pass<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_%E2%80%94_overview\" >Where to stay \u2014 overview<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_1%E2%80%932_Los_Angeles\" >Day 1\u20132. Los Angeles<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Los_Angeles\" >Where to stay in Los Angeles<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_3_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\" >Day 3. Joshua Tree National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_near_Joshua_Tree\" >Where to stay near Joshua Tree<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_4_Las_Vegas\" >Day 4. Las Vegas<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Las_Vegas\" >Where to stay in Las Vegas<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_5%E2%80%936_Zion_National_Park\" >Day 5\u20136. Zion National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_near_Zion_National_Park\" >Where to stay near Zion National Park<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_7_Bryce_Canyon_National_Park\" >Day 7. Bryce Canyon National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_near_Bryce_Canyon\" >Where to stay near Bryce Canyon<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_8_Page_%E2%80%94_Antelope_Canyon_and_Horseshoe_Bend\" >Day 8. Page \u2014 Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Page\" >Where to stay in Page<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_9%E2%80%9310_Grand_Canyon_National_Park\" >Day 9\u201310. Grand Canyon National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_near_the_Grand_Canyon\" >Where to stay near the Grand Canyon<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_11_Monument_Valley\" >Day 11. Monument Valley<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Monument_Valley\" >Where to stay in Monument Valley<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_12%E2%80%9313_Arches_and_Canyonlands_National_Park\" >Day 12\u201313. Arches and Canyonlands National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Moab\" >Where to stay in Moab<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_14%E2%80%9315_Transfer_and_Death_Valley_National_Park\" >Day 14\u201315. Transfer and Death Valley National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Death_Valley\" >Where to stay in Death Valley<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_16%E2%80%9317_Sequoia_and_Kings_Canyon_National_Park\" >Day 16\u201317. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_near_Sequoia\" >Where to stay near Sequoia<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_18%E2%80%9319_Yosemite_National_Park\" >Day 18\u201319. Yosemite National Park<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_Yosemite\" >Where to stay in Yosemite<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Day_20%E2%80%9321_San_Francisco\" >Day 20\u201321. San Francisco<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Where_to_stay_in_San_Francisco\" >Where to stay in San Francisco<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Practical_tips_to_wrap_up\" >Practical tips to wrap up<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#What_to_pack\" >What to pack<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Flights\" >Flights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Car_rental\" >Car rental<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Insurance\" >Insurance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Mobile_data\" >Mobile data<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Read_next_more_articles_about_the_west_coast_USA\" >Read next: more articles about the west coast USA<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\" >Frequently asked questions about a west coast USA road trip<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost\" >How much does a west coast USA road trip cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#How_many_days_do_you_need_for_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\" >How many days do you need for a west coast USA road trip?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#What_car_should_you_rent\" >What car should you rent?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Do_I_need_an_ESTA_or_a_visa_for_the_USA\" >Do I need an ESTA or a visa for the USA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Is_the_west_coast_USA_safe\" >Is the west coast USA safe?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#When_should_I_book_accommodation_and_activities\" >When should I book accommodation and activities?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\/#Can_I_do_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_in_winter\" >Can I do a west coast USA road trip in winter?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TL_DR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Route:<\/strong> Los Angeles \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161105\">Joshua Tree<\/a> \u2192 Las Vegas \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/zion-national-park-utah-tips\/\">Zion<\/a> \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161097\">Bryce Canyon<\/a> \u2192 Page (Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend) \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/grand-canyon-things-to-do\/\">Grand Canyon<\/a> \u2192 Monument Valley \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/arches-national-park-utah-tips\/\">Arches<\/a> \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/canyonlands-utah-things-see-do\/\">Canyonlands<\/a> \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161091\">Death Valley<\/a> \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161095\">Sequoia<\/a> \u2192 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161122\">Yosemite<\/a> \u2192 San Francisco<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Total distance:<\/strong> approx. 2,800 miles (4,500 km) \u2014 allow 14\u201321 days, ideally 18+<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Best time to go:<\/strong> April\u2013May and September\u2013October (pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Budget for two:<\/strong> approx. \u20ac5,000\u20138,000 per person including flights, depending on travel style<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Car:<\/strong> SUV or crossover with high ground clearance (Monument Valley, Death Valley) \u2014 we use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rentalcars.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">RentalCars<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accommodation:<\/strong> mix of camping, motels and Airbnb \u2014 book national park accommodation 3\u20136 months ahead<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>National parks:<\/strong> get the America the Beautiful Pass for $80 (valid for one year, entry to all parks)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Must-see:<\/strong> Zion (Angels Landing or Observation Point), Grand Canyon at sunrise, Arches at sunset, Yosemite Valley<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trip surprise:<\/strong> Monument Valley and Bryce Canyon blew us away more than we expected<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_the_west_coast_USA\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_go_and_how_to_get_to_the_west_coast_USA\"><\/span>When to go and how to get to the west coast USA<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The American West is enormous and the weather varies dramatically depending on elevation and location. In summer, Death Valley can hit 50 \u00b0C (122 \u00b0F), while Yosemite sits at a pleasant 25 \u00b0C (77 \u00b0F). On the other hand, Sierra Nevada passes can be closed by snow in winter. So timing is everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_for_a_road_trip\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_time_for_a_road_trip\"><\/span>Best time for a road trip<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>April\u2013May<\/strong> and <strong>September\u2013October<\/strong> are hands down the best months. Desert temperatures are bearable (around 25\u201335 \u00b0C \/ 77\u201395 \u00b0F), the mountains are beautiful, and there are far fewer tourists than in summer. We went at the end of September into October and it was perfect \u2014 golden light, empty trails, and temperatures around 28 \u00b0C (82 \u00b0F) in Utah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Summer (June\u2013August)<\/strong> is the most popular season, but the desert is genuinely unbearable. In Death Valley, Joshua Tree and the Grand Canyon, you&#8217;ll feel like you&#8217;re standing inside an oven. On top of that, the national parks are so packed that some trails require advance reservations (Zion, Yosemite). If you have no other option, at least get up early \u2014 around 6 am is the best time for everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Winter (November\u2013March)<\/strong> is tricky because of snow in the mountains. Tioga Pass into Yosemite is usually closed from November to May, Bryce Canyon can be blanketed in snow (though it looks stunning!). On the flip side, Las Vegas and southern Arizona are perfectly pleasant in winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Los_Angeles\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_get_to_Los_Angeles\"><\/span>How to get to Los Angeles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>From the UK, there are plenty of direct flights to LA. British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow, and you can also find good deals with Virgin Atlantic and Norwegian. Budget-friendly connecting flights are available too \u2014 look for deals on comparison sites. One-way tickets from London to LA can start from around \u00a3300\u2013500, depending on the season and how far in advance you book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> If you fly one-way into LA and back from San Francisco (or vice versa), it&#8217;s often cheaper than a return ticket to the same city. Compare both options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For mobile data in the USA, we recommend an eSIM from <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Holafly\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/holafly\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Holafly<\/a> \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/holafly-esim-review-travel\/\">read our review<\/a>. Signal in national parks is often weak or non-existent, but it works great in cities and on main highways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall.jpg\" alt=\"Vernal Fall with a rainbow on the famous Mist Trail\" class=\"wp-image-159391\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-mist-trail-vernal-fall-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">DCIM\\100GOPRO\\GOPR2214.JPG<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_and_rental\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_and_rental\"><\/span>Car and rental<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You simply can&#8217;t do the west coast USA without a car. And not just any car \u2014 we recommend an <strong>SUV or crossover<\/strong> with high ground clearance. Monument Valley has unpaved roads, there are places in Death Valley you can&#8217;t reach with a saloon car, and overall you&#8217;ll feel much more comfortable on those long distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luk\u00e1\u0161 and I have had consistently good experiences with <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a>, which we use all over the world. For this route, expect to pay <strong>$40\u201380\/day<\/strong> (roughly \u20ac37\u201375) for an SUV, depending on the season. A 21-day rental works out to around <strong>$1,000\u20131,500<\/strong> (\u20ac930\u20131,400).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you book insurance through <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a>, you won&#8217;t need to buy the expensive cover at the counter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fill up whenever you see a petrol station \u2014 in the desert there can be dozens of miles between them<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Petrol currently costs around <strong>$4\u20135.50\/gallon<\/strong> (approx. \u20ac0.90\u20131.20\/litre), with California being the most expensive<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you&#8217;re dropping the car off at a different location (one-way rental), expect a surcharge of $100\u2013300<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost_where_to_stay\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost_and_where_to_stay\"><\/span>How much does a west coast USA road trip cost + where to stay<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your budget mainly depends on whether you camp or sleep in hotels, and how often you eat out. The west coast USA isn&#8217;t cheap, but you can absolutely travel smart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Estimated_budget_for_21_days_for_two\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Estimated_budget_for_21_days_for_two\"><\/span>Estimated budget for 21 days for two<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Item<\/td><td>Budget option<\/td><td>Mid-range option<\/td><td>Comfort option<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Flights<\/strong> (return\/pp)<\/td><td>\u20ac550<\/td><td>\u20ac700<\/td><td>\u20ac1,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Car<\/strong> (21 days)<\/td><td>\u20ac930<\/td><td>\u20ac1,170<\/td><td>\u20ac1,560<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Petrol<\/strong><\/td><td>\u20ac470<\/td><td>\u20ac470<\/td><td>\u20ac580<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Accommodation<\/strong> (21 nights, for both)<\/td><td>\u20ac970<\/td><td>\u20ac2,150<\/td><td>\u20ac3,900<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Food<\/strong> (for both)<\/td><td>\u20ac780<\/td><td>\u20ac1,370<\/td><td>\u20ac2,150<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Parks + activities<\/strong><\/td><td>\u20ac195<\/td><td>\u20ac390<\/td><td>\u20ac780<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>TOTAL for both<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac3,900<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac6,250<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac10,000<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Per person<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac1,950<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac3,125<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>\u20ac5,000<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We fell somewhere between mid-range and comfort \u2014 alternating between campsites, motels and Airbnb, treating ourselves to meals out but occasionally cooking at camp. It came to roughly <strong>\u20ac3,700 per person<\/strong> including flights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"America_the_Beautiful_Pass\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"America_the_Beautiful_Pass\"><\/span>America the Beautiful Pass<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is an absolute must-have. For <strong>$80<\/strong> (around \u20ac75) you get a full year&#8217;s entry to <strong>all US national parks<\/strong>. On our route that covers: Joshua Tree, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Death Valley, Sequoia, Yosemite \u2014 entry to each park is $30\u201335, so the pass pays for itself by the third park. Buy it online in advance or at the first national park you visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_%E2%80%94_overview\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_overview\"><\/span>Where to stay \u2014 overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the national parks you have three options: 1. <strong>Park campgrounds<\/strong> \u2014 the cheapest ($15\u201335\/night), but you need to book months ahead on recreation.gov 2. <strong>Park lodges<\/strong> \u2014 beautiful but expensive ($150\u2013400\/night) and booked up a year in advance 3. <strong>Motels\/hotels in nearby towns<\/strong> \u2014 the most flexible option, $60\u2013150\/night<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> Some campgrounds operate on a first-come-first-served basis. If you arrive early in the morning (before 10 am), you&#8217;ve got a good chance of grabbing a spot without a reservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before we dive into the day-by-day breakdown, here&#8217;s an <strong>overview of the entire route<\/strong> \u2014 where you&#8217;re driving and where to sleep each night:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Day<\/th><th>Route and transfer<\/th><th>Where to sleep<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1\u20132<\/td><td>Arrive in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Griffith Observatory<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/freehand-los-angeles.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Los Angeles<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td>Los Angeles \u2192 Joshua Tree NP (~2.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Joshua%20Tree%20National%20Park&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Joshua Tree<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4<\/td><td>Joshua Tree \u2192 Las Vegas (~3 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-linq-and-casino.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Las Vegas<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5\u20136<\/td><td>Las Vegas \u2192 Zion NP (~2.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/cable-mountain-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Springdale near Zion<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7<\/td><td>Zion \u2192 Bryce Canyon NP (~1.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/best-western-bryce-canyon-grand.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Bryce Canyon<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8<\/td><td>Bryce Canyon \u2192 Page \u2014 Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend (~2.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/hyatt-place-page-lake-powell.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Page<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9\u201310<\/td><td>Page \u2192 Grand Canyon NP (~2.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/best-western-grand-canyon-squire-resort.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Grand Canyon (Tusayan)<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>11<\/td><td>Grand Canyon \u2192 Monument Valley (~3 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/goulding-s-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Monument Valley<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>12\u201313<\/td><td>Monument Valley \u2192 Arches &#038; Canyonlands NP (~2.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/hoodoo-moab-curio-collection-by-hilton.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Moab<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>14\u201315<\/td><td>Moab \u2192 Death Valley NP (~9 hrs, with overnight stop en route)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=The%20Ranch%20at%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Death Valley<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>16\u201317<\/td><td>Death Valley \u2192 Sequoia &#038; Kings Canyon NP (~5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/wuksachi-village-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Sequoia NP<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>18\u201319<\/td><td>Sequoia \u2192 Yosemite NP (~3.5 hrs)<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/yosemite-valley-lodge-yosemite-national-park.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Yosemite<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>20\u201321<\/td><td>Yosemite \u2192 San Francisco (~3.5 hrs), fly home<\/td><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/boheme.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">San Francisco<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The total route is roughly 2,800 miles (4,500 km). Transfer times are approximate, without stops along the way.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1%E2%80%932_Los_Angeles\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1-2_Los_Angeles\"><\/span>Day 1\u20132. Los Angeles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1066\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles.jpg\" alt=\"Downtown Los Angeles panorama\" class=\"wp-image-160782\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-700x466.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-los-angeles-1392x927.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: dconvertini, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We landed in LA late afternoon, completely jetlagged, and the first thing that hit us was the sunshine. Sharp, Californian, relentless. LA is a city you either love or hate \u2014 we hated it for roughly the first six hours, until we found parking. \ud83d\ude05 But then it won us over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 1<\/strong> \u2014 dedicate it to acclimatising and resting. Drive down to <strong>Santa Monica<\/strong>, stroll along the pier (yes, it&#8217;s touristy, but that sunset!), then head to <strong>Venice Beach<\/strong> for an evening walk along the boardwalk. It&#8217;s weird, colourful, noisy \u2014 and absolutely brilliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 2<\/strong> \u2014 head to <strong>Griffith Observatory<\/strong> \u2014 the best view over all of LA and the Hollywood sign. It&#8217;s free and barely anyone&#8217;s there in the morning. From there you can walk down through Griffith Park. In the afternoon, check out <strong>Hollywood Boulevard<\/strong> (half an hour is plenty, it&#8217;s mostly a laugh), and if you have time, swing by the <strong>Getty Center<\/strong> \u2014 a fantastic gallery with stunning architecture, free entry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Grand Central Market in DTLA is a foodie paradise \u2014 Mexican tacos at Tacos Tumbras a Tumbar, Thai noodles at Sticky Rice, and if you love breakfast, Eggslut does legendary egg sandwiches (the queue is worth it). For dinner, try In-N-Out Burger \u2014 a classic Californian fast food chain that genuinely surprised us with its quality. Order the &#8220;Animal Style&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><!-- GYG:LOS ANGELES (no mapping) --><\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Los_Angeles\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Los_Angeles\"><\/span>Where to stay in Los Angeles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In LA, stay in the <strong>Santa Monica<\/strong> or <strong>Venice Beach<\/strong> area \u2014 you&#8217;re close to the sea and well positioned for the onward journey. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/freehand-los-angeles.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Freehand Los Angeles<\/a> in downtown is a great pick if you want to be in the heart of the city at a reasonable price ($80\u2013130\/night).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_3_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_3_Joshua_Tree_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 3. Joshua Tree National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice.jpg\" alt=\"Joshua trees along the road in the national park\" class=\"wp-image-159402\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/joshua-tree-strom-u-silnice-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 2.5 hours from LA to Joshua Tree and you step into a completely different world. Bizarre little trees (they&#8217;re actually yuccas, not trees, but nobody cares \ud83d\ude01), massive granite boulders, and a silence you wouldn&#8217;t expect in California.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arrive ideally in the morning and hit the <strong>Arch Rock Trail<\/strong> (short, easy, photogenic), then <strong>Skull Rock<\/strong> (exactly what you think \u2014 a rock shaped like a skull) and <strong>Keys View<\/strong> with panoramas over Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault. If you&#8217;ve got the energy, <strong>Ryan Mountain Trail<\/strong> (3 miles return) offers the best 360\u00b0 views in the entire park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunset in Joshua Tree is unforgettable \u2014 those strange tree silhouettes against the orange sky look like something from another planet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> The little town of Joshua Tree Village (right by the park) has a surprisingly good food scene. Crossroads Caf\u00e9 does excellent breakfasts and coffee, and Joshua Tree Saloon is a classic American saloon with great burgers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> Bring plenty of water \u2014 there&#8217;s no source of drinking water in Joshua Tree. Count on at least 3 litres per person per day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Joshua_Tree\"><\/span>Where to stay near Joshua Tree<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In Joshua Tree Village you&#8217;ll find a range of unique Airbnbs \u2014 from retro Airstream caravans to dome houses. If you want to camp, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Jumbo%20Rocks%20Campground%20Joshua%20Tree&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Jumbo Rocks Campground<\/a><\/strong> is the most atmospheric site right inside the park ($15\/night, first-come-first-served, arrive early).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_Las_Vegas\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_Las_Vegas\"><\/span>Day 4. Las Vegas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1101\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas.jpg\" alt=\"The Strip boulevard in Las Vegas\" class=\"wp-image-160783\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-700x482.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-768x528.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-1536x1057.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-696x479.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-las-vegas-1392x958.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Dietmar Rabich, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 3 hours from Joshua Tree to Vegas. And then \u2014 out of absolutely nowhere \u2014 a blinking city appears on the horizon. It&#8217;s surreal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vegas is either your dream or your nightmare. We treated it as a fun one-night stop \u2014 and that&#8217;s exactly what we&#8217;d recommend. Walk along the <strong>Strip<\/strong> in the evening (the Bellagio Fountains are free and genuinely stunning), peek inside the casinos (even if you don&#8217;t gamble, the interiors are wild), and if you want a view, the <strong>High Roller<\/strong> (the giant observation wheel, $25\u201337) is a better bet than the overpriced Stratosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Vegas has some of the best restaurants in the USA, but also some of the priciest. For a reasonable budget: <strong>Tacos El Gordo<\/strong> on the Strip (authentic Mexican tacos for $3\u20135), <strong>In-N-Out Burger<\/strong> (if you haven&#8217;t tried it yet), or <strong>Bacchanal Buffet<\/strong> at Caesars Palace if you fancy treating yourself to all-you-can-eat for $75 per person \u2014 honestly, it&#8217;s worth every penny.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> Resort fees in Las Vegas are notorious \u2014 $30\u201350\/night on top of the room price. Always factor in this hidden surcharge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Las_Vegas\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Las_Vegas\"><\/span>Where to stay in Las Vegas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Paradoxically, accommodation on the Strip can be surprisingly cheap \u2014 big hotels offer rooms from <strong>$40\u201380\/night<\/strong> (but watch out for resort fees!). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-linq-and-casino.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The LINQ Hotel &amp; Experience<\/a> is a good balance of price and location, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-venetian-resort-casino.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Venetian<\/a> is a more luxurious choice with gorgeous suites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_5%E2%80%936_Zion_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_5-6_Zion_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 5\u20136. Zion National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2.jpg\" alt=\"View from Angels Landing in Zion National Park\" class=\"wp-image-129701\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2-700x368.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/angels-landing-zion-2-696x365.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s just 2.5 hours from Vegas to Zion and it&#8217;s one of the most beautiful transitions you&#8217;ll experience on the whole road trip \u2014 from desert, you suddenly drive into red canyons and green valleys. Zion absolutely blew us away. It&#8217;s probably our favourite park in the entire USA. \u263a\ufe0f<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 5:<\/strong> Arrive early in the morning and tackle <strong>Angels Landing<\/strong> \u2014 one of the most iconic trails in America. It&#8217;s 5.4 miles return with 450 m (1,500 ft) of elevation gain, and the final section follows a narrow ridge with chains above the canyon. It&#8217;s not for anyone with a fear of heights, but if you manage it, the view from the top is out of this world. <strong>Since 2022 you need a permit for Angels Landing<\/strong> \u2014 it&#8217;s a lottery on recreation.gov, so apply months in advance!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don&#8217;t have a permit (or don&#8217;t fancy the heights), <strong>Observation Point<\/strong> via the East Mesa Trail is equally beautiful and far less nerve-wracking \u2014 it&#8217;s 6.5 miles, but without any exposed sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 6:<\/strong> <strong>The Narrows<\/strong> \u2014 a hike through the riverbed of the Virgin River. You wade through the water between towering rock walls hundreds of metres high. It&#8217;s magical. Hire neoprene socks and walking poles from one of the shops in Springdale ($25\u201330) \u2014 you&#8217;ll need them. In the afternoon, walk the <strong>Canyon Overlook Trail<\/strong> (1 mile, easy, fantastic views) and drive through the tunnel along the <strong>Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Springdale (the little town at the park entrance) has surprisingly good restaurants. <strong>Oscar&#8217;s Caf\u00e9<\/strong> \u2014 huge portions, Mexican food, brilliant breakfasts. <strong>Bit &amp; Spur<\/strong> \u2014 creative southwestern cuisine, great for an evening meal with a beer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Zion_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Zion_National_Park\"><\/span>Where to stay near Zion National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Stay in <strong>Springdale<\/strong> \u2014 it&#8217;s right at the park entrance and you take the shuttle bus from here (you can&#8217;t drive into the canyon). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/cable-mountain-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Cable Mountain Lodge<\/a> has lovely views and a pool, or try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/la-quinta-zion-park-springdale.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">La Quinta Inn<\/a>. For camping in the park: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Watchman%20Campground%20Zion&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Watchman Campground<\/a><\/strong> ($20\/night, reservation required).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_7_Bryce_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_7_Bryce_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 7. Bryce Canyon National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr.jpg\" alt=\"Amphitheatre of rock towers in Bryce Canyon\" class=\"wp-image-160346\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/bryce-canyon-amfiteatr-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 1.5 hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon and honestly \u2014 Bryce surprised us more than anything else on the trip. Those thousands of orange hoodoos (rock pillars) look like a frozen army of sentinels. At sunrise, when the entire amphitheatre lights up in shades of orange and pink, we both stood there absolutely gobsmacked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arrive at <strong>Sunrise Point<\/strong> while it&#8217;s still dark (yes, that means a 5 am wake-up, but it&#8217;s SO worth it). Then walk down the <strong>Navajo Loop + Queen&#8217;s Garden Trail<\/strong> (2.9 miles, moderately challenging, but doable for anyone). You walk right among the hoodoos and it&#8217;s a completely different experience than looking from above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the afternoon, drive the <strong>Scenic Drive<\/strong> with stops at the viewpoints \u2014 <strong>Inspiration Point<\/strong>, <strong>Bryce Point<\/strong> and <strong>Natural Bridge<\/strong> are must-sees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Options in Bryce Canyon are limited. <strong>Bryce Canyon Pines<\/strong> (on the road from Tropic) has surprisingly good homemade pies, otherwise you&#8217;re better off packing a picnic \u2014 the park has beautiful spots to sit and eat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> Bryce Canyon sits at 2,400 m (8,000 ft) elevation \u2014 even in summer, mornings can be around 5 \u00b0C (41 \u00b0F). Bring a warm layer! For help choosing the right hiking boots, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/how-choose-hiking-boots\/\">our guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Bryce_Canyon\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Bryce_Canyon\"><\/span>Where to stay near Bryce Canyon<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The little town of <strong>Tropic<\/strong> (15 min from the park) is more affordable than staying right at the park entrance. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/best-western-bryce-canyon-grand.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel<\/a> is a solid choice. If you want to camp, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=North%20Campground%20Bryce%20Canyon&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">North Campground<\/a><\/strong> right inside the park is fantastic ($20\/night).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_8_Page_%E2%80%94_Antelope_Canyon_and_Horseshoe_Bend\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_8_Page_Antelope_Canyon_and_Horseshoe_Bend\"><\/span>Day 8. Page \u2014 Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"899\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend.jpg\" alt=\"Horseshoe Bend meander near the town of Page\" class=\"wp-image-160784\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-700x393.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-1536x863.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-696x391.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-horseshoe-bend-1392x782.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Charles Wang, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 2.5 hours from Bryce to Page through gorgeous scenery. Page is a small town, but the concentration of jaw-dropping views per square mile here is unbeatable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the morning, head to <strong>Upper Antelope Canyon<\/strong> \u2014 that famous slot canyon where shafts of light stream down from above and paint the sandstone walls in surreal colours. Entry is by guided tour only and you MUST book in advance (tours cost $50\u201390\/person). Alternatively, <strong>Lower Antelope Canyon<\/strong> is less crowded and in our opinion just as beautiful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the afternoon (ideally an hour before sunset), make your way to <strong>Horseshoe Bend<\/strong> \u2014 the iconic horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River, 300 metres (1,000 ft) below you. It&#8217;s a 0.75-mile walk from the car park. Entry $10.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have time, drive out to <strong>Lake Powell<\/strong> \u2014 a huge turquoise lake in the middle of the desert. You can hire a kayak or simply go for a swim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> <strong>El Tapatio<\/strong> \u2014 surprisingly authentic Mexican restaurant. <strong>Big John&#8217;s Texas BBQ<\/strong> \u2014 if you love American BBQ, this is the place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Page\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Page\"><\/span>Where to stay in Page<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Page has a range of motels and hotels in the <strong>$70\u2013150\/night<\/strong> bracket. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/hyatt-place-page-lake-powell.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hyatt Place Page\/Lake Powell<\/a> is newer and comfortable. For a budget option, try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/rodeway-inn-page-near-lake-powell.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Rodeway Inn<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_9%E2%80%9310_Grand_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_9-10_Grand_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 9\u201310. Grand Canyon National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"630\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3.jpg\" alt=\"Grand Canyon panorama\" class=\"wp-image-129634\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3-700x368.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3-696x365.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 2.5 hours from Page to the Grand Canyon (South Rim) and this is the stop that drives so many people to do a west coast USA road trip in the first place. And I get it. The Grand Canyon is simply\u2026 grand. \ud83d\ude05 No photo, no video can prepare you for how it feels to stand on the edge and stare into a chasm 1.6 km (a mile) deep, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 9:<\/strong> Arrive at the <strong>South Rim<\/strong> ideally for sunrise \u2014 <strong>Mather Point<\/strong> or <strong>Yavapai Point<\/strong> are the best viewpoints. In the morning, walk the <strong>Rim Trail<\/strong> (flat, along the edge, walk as much or as little as you like). In the afternoon, head down the <strong>Bright Angel Trail<\/strong> \u2014 you don&#8217;t have to go all the way to the river (that&#8217;s a full day effort), but even 2\u20133 miles down and back gives you a sense of the canyon&#8217;s scale. Be warned \u2014 going down is easy, coming back up is another story!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 10:<\/strong> <strong>Desert View Drive<\/strong> \u2014 a 25-mile drive along the canyon rim with plenty of viewpoints. Stop at <strong>Grandview Point<\/strong>, <strong>Moran Point<\/strong> and <strong>Desert View Watchtower<\/strong> (a historic stone tower with 360\u00b0 views). In the afternoon, you have time to set off towards Monument Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Options in the park are limited. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=El%20Tovar%20Hotel%20Grand%20Canyon&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">El Tovar<\/a> Dining Room<\/strong> in the historic El Tovar Hotel is the best restaurant in the park \u2014 book ahead! For a budget option, try <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Bright%20Angel%20Lodge%20Grand%20Canyon&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Bright Angel Lodge<\/a><\/strong> or pack a picnic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> For more on the Grand Canyon, check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/narodni-park-yellowstone\/\">article about American national parks<\/a> \u2014 you&#8217;ll find tips that apply to all parks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_the_Grand_Canyon\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_the_Grand_Canyon\"><\/span>Where to stay near the Grand Canyon<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Accommodation inside the park (El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Maswik%20Lodge%20Grand%20Canyon&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Maswik Lodge<\/a>) is the most convenient, but expensive ($150\u2013400\/night) and sells out months in advance. The little town of <strong>Tusayan<\/strong> (10 min from the entrance) has motels for <strong>$80\u2013150\/night<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/best-western-grand-canyon-squire-resort.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn<\/a> is a decent choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_11_Monument_Valley\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_11_Monument_Valley\"><\/span>Day 11. Monument Valley<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley.jpg\" alt=\"Rock buttes in Monument Valley\" class=\"wp-image-160785\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-700x438.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-1536x960.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-monument-valley-1392x870.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 3 hours from the Grand Canyon to Monument Valley and when you see those red buttes rising from the flat desert, you&#8217;ll feel like you&#8217;ve driven straight into a Western. Because this is exactly where those Westerns were filmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Monument Valley is on Navajo Nation land and entry is <strong>$8\/person<\/strong> (no, the America the Beautiful Pass doesn&#8217;t work here). You can drive the <strong>Valley Drive<\/strong> \u2014 a 17-mile unpaved loop between the monuments. The road is bumpy, but manageable in an SUV (I wouldn&#8217;t recommend it in a saloon car).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a deeper experience, we highly recommend a <strong>tour with a Navajo guide<\/strong> \u2014 you&#8217;ll get access to places you can&#8217;t visit on your own, and hear stories about this sacred land. Tours cost $50\u201380\/person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sunset from the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=The%20View%20Hotel%20Monument%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The View Hotel<\/a><\/strong> terrace is probably the most photogenic moment of the entire road trip. Those red buttes against the orange sky \u2014 it&#8217;s a classic, but it just works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> <strong>The View Restaurant<\/strong> at the hotel serves Navajo cuisine with a view. Try the <strong>Navajo Taco<\/strong> (frybread with beans, meat and cheese) \u2014 it&#8217;s a local speciality and we absolutely loved it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Monument_Valley\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Monument_Valley\"><\/span>Where to stay in Monument Valley<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The View Hotel<\/strong> is the only accommodation with a direct view of the buttes and it&#8217;s worth every penny ($150\u2013250\/night). Budget alternative: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/goulding-s-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Goulding&#8217;s Lodge<\/a><\/strong> across the road ($100\u2013160\/night) or camping right in Monument Valley ($20\/night).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_12%E2%80%9313_Arches_and_Canyonlands_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_12-13_Arches_and_Canyonlands_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 12\u201313. Arches and Canyonlands National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches.jpg\" alt=\"Rock arch in Arches National Park\" class=\"wp-image-129587\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/arches-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 2.5 hours from Monument Valley to Moab (the gateway to both parks). Moab is an outdoor enthusiast&#8217;s paradise \u2014 two national parks, red rock everywhere, and a vibrant little town packed with caf\u00e9s and outfitters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 12 \u2014 Arches National Park:<\/strong> Since 2022 you need a <strong>timed entry reservation<\/strong> (recreation.gov, $2). Arrive in the morning and tick off: <strong>Delicate Arch Trail<\/strong> (3 miles return, moderately challenging) \u2014 the iconic arch you know from Utah licence plates. At sunset it&#8217;s pure magic. Then <strong>Windows Section<\/strong> (easy, photogenic), <strong>Double Arch<\/strong> and <strong>Landscape Arch<\/strong> (the longest natural arch in the world).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 13 \u2014 Canyonlands National Park:<\/strong> The lesser-visited sibling of Arches, but in our opinion even more impressive. Head to the <strong>Island in the Sky<\/strong> district \u2014 <strong>Grand View Point<\/strong> offers a vista that rivals the Grand Canyon (but without the crowds!). <strong>Mesa Arch<\/strong> at sunrise is a photographer&#8217;s dream \u2014 the sun shines through the arch and bathes the canyon below in orange light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the afternoon, you could tackle <strong>White Rim Road<\/strong> (4WD and permit required) or simply enjoy the viewpoints at <strong>Upheaval Dome<\/strong> and <strong>Shafer Canyon<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Moab has a brilliant food scene. <strong>Milt&#8217;s Stop &amp; Eat<\/strong> \u2014 legendary burgers and milkshakes (cash only!). <strong>Antica Forma<\/strong> \u2014 the best pizza in Utah, no exaggeration. <strong>Love Muffin Cafe<\/strong> \u2014 fantastic breakfasts.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><!-- GYG:MOAB (no mapping) --><\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Moab\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Moab\"><\/span>Where to stay in Moab<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Moab has everything from campsites to boutique hotels. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/moab-under-canvass.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Under Canvas Moab<\/a><\/strong> is a luxury glamping site outside town ($200+\/night), while <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/hoodoo-moab-curio-collection-by-hilton.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hoodoo Moab<\/a><\/strong> is a stylish hotel ($120\u2013180\/night). For budget travellers: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/the-lazy-lizard.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Lazy Lizard Hostel<\/a><\/strong> or BLM campsites outside town (free or $5\u201310).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_14%E2%80%9315_Transfer_and_Death_Valley_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_14-15_Transfer_and_Death_Valley_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 14\u201315. Transfer and Death Valley National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce.jpg\" alt=\"Sand dunes in Death Valley at sunset\" class=\"wp-image-159786\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/129460-featured-pisecne-duny-death-valley-za-bourkoveho-zapadu-slunce-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s a long haul from Moab to Death Valley \u2014 roughly 8\u20139 hours. We&#8217;d recommend splitting it over two days with an overnight stop in <strong>Las Vegas<\/strong> (again, just for the night this time) or in the little town of <strong>Beatty<\/strong> on the edge of Death Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 14:<\/strong> Transfer day from Moab. If you go via Vegas, just sleep there and head off early next morning. If you go via Beatty, you&#8217;ll arrive in the afternoon and can head straight into Death Valley for sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 15 \u2014 Death Valley:<\/strong> This is the most extreme stop on our route. The lowest point in North America (<strong>Badwater Basin<\/strong>, 86 m \/ 282 ft below sea level), the hottest place on Earth, and \u2014 surprisingly \u2014 one of the most beautiful. Start the morning at <strong>Zabriskie Point<\/strong> (sunrise here is incredible), then <strong>Badwater Basin<\/strong> (walk across the salt flats), <strong>Artist&#8217;s Drive<\/strong> (colourful rock formations), <strong>Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes<\/strong> and <strong>Dante&#8217;s View<\/strong> (overlooking the entire valley).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>IMPORTANT:<\/strong> In summer it can exceed 50 \u00b0C (122 \u00b0F) here \u2014 don&#8217;t take that lightly. Keep a full tank, carry 8+ litres of water per person and check your car&#8217;s condition. In cooler months (October\u2013April) it&#8217;s absolutely perfect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> Options in Death Valley are extremely limited. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=The%20Inn%20at%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Inn at Death Valley<\/a><\/strong> has the only decent restaurant in the park. We recommend stocking up on supplies in Vegas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Death_Valley\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Death_Valley\"><\/span>Where to stay in Death Valley<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=The%20Ranch%20at%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Ranch at Death Valley<\/a><\/strong> ($150\u2013250\/night) is the more affordable option inside the park. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Stovepipe%20Wells%20Village%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Stovepipe Wells Village<\/a><\/strong> is simpler but does the job ($120\u2013180\/night). Camping: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Furnace%20Creek%20Campground%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Furnace Creek Campground<\/a><\/strong> ($22\/night, October\u2013April), and in summer opt for the higher-altitude <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Mesquite%20Spring%20Campground%20Death%20Valley&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Mesquite Spring<\/a><\/strong> ($14\/night).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_16%E2%80%9317_Sequoia_and_Kings_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_16-17_Sequoia_and_Kings_Canyon_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 16\u201317. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest.jpg\" alt=\"Giant sequoias in Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park\" class=\"wp-image-159396\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/sequoia-obri-sekvoje-giant-forest-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 4\u20135 hours from Death Valley to Sequoia and it feels like driving from Mars into Middle-earth. From the parched desert, you suddenly find yourself in dense forests filled with ancient trees that have been growing for thousands of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 16:<\/strong> Arrive in the afternoon and explore <strong>Giant Forest<\/strong> \u2014 the area with the greatest concentration of giant sequoias on the planet. <strong>General Sherman Tree<\/strong> is the largest tree on Earth (by volume) and standing next to it makes you feel incredibly small. The <strong>Congress Trail<\/strong> (2 miles, easy) takes you past more of these gigantic trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 17:<\/strong> In the morning, tackle <strong>Moro Rock<\/strong> \u2014 a short but steep climb up steps carved into the rock with views over the Great Western Divide. Then drive into <strong>Kings Canyon<\/strong> (the neighbouring park, same ticket) \u2014 <strong>Kings Canyon Scenic Byway<\/strong> is one of the most beautiful mountain roads in California. Stop at <strong>Grizzly Falls<\/strong> and walk the <strong>Zumwalt Meadow Trail<\/strong> (1.6 miles, flat, stunning).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> The parks only have basic refreshment stands. In the little town of <strong>Three Rivers<\/strong> (at the entrance to Sequoia), try <strong>Ol&#8217; Buckaroo<\/strong> or <strong>Antoinette&#8217;s Coffee &amp; Goodies<\/strong> for breakfast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>TIP:<\/strong> Generals Highway (the road through the park) is narrow and winding \u2014 vehicles over 22 feet can&#8217;t make it through. A regular SUV is fine, though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Sequoia\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_near_Sequoia\"><\/span>Where to stay near Sequoia<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/wuksachi-village-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Wuksachi Lodge<\/a><\/strong> is the only hotel inside the park ($150\u2013250\/night). In <strong>Three Rivers<\/strong> you&#8217;ll find motels for $80\u2013130\/night \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/buckeye-tree-lodge.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Buckeye Tree Lodge<\/a> is a popular choice. Camping: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Lodgepole%20Campground%20Sequoia&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Lodgepole Campground<\/a><\/strong> ($22\/night, reservation on recreation.gov).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_18%E2%80%9319_Yosemite_National_Park\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_18-19_Yosemite_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 18\u201319. Yosemite National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome.jpg\" alt=\"Nevada Fall and Half Dome in Yosemite\" class=\"wp-image-159387\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/yosemite-nevada-fall-half-dome-696x464.jpg 696w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 3\u20134 hours from Sequoia to Yosemite (via Fresno) and this is a fitting grand finale for the entire road trip. Yosemite Valley is simply iconic \u2014 enormous granite walls, waterfalls plunging hundreds of metres, and meadows where deer graze. Like a computer desktop wallpaper, except it&#8217;s real life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 18:<\/strong> Arrive in <strong>Yosemite Valley<\/strong> and tick off the essentials \u2014 <strong>Yosemite Falls<\/strong> (one of the tallest waterfalls in North America), <strong>El Capitan<\/strong> (that monstrous granite wall \u2014 if you&#8217;ve got binoculars, you&#8217;ll spot climbers!), and <strong>Bridalveil Fall<\/strong>. In the afternoon, hike the <strong>Mirror Lake Trail<\/strong> (5 miles, flat) or the easier <strong>Valley View Loop<\/strong>. Sunset from <strong>Tunnel View<\/strong> is a must \u2014 it overlooks the entire valley with El Capitan and Half Dome framing the scene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 19:<\/strong> If you&#8217;re feeling fit, the <strong>Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall<\/strong> (5.5 miles, strenuous, lots of steps) is probably the best hike in Yosemite. You walk right through the waterfall mist \u2014 you&#8217;ll get soaked, but you&#8217;ll be grinning. In the afternoon, drive along <strong>Tioga Road<\/strong> (open roughly June\u2013October) \u2014 stops at <strong>Olmsted Point<\/strong> and <strong>Tenaya Lake<\/strong> are gorgeous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the ambitious: <strong>Half Dome<\/strong> is a legendary full-day ascent (14 miles, 1,500 m \/ 4,800 ft elevation gain, cable section) \u2014 you need a permit and excellent fitness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> <strong>The Ahwahnee Dining Room<\/strong> (now <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=The%20Ahwahnee%20Majestic%20Yosemite%20Hotel&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Majestic Yosemite Hotel<\/a>) \u2014 a historic dining hall with high ceilings and views of the falls. Expensive, but unforgettable. <strong>Degnan&#8217;s Kitchen<\/strong> in Yosemite Village does solid sandwiches and salads at reasonable prices. In <strong>Mariposa<\/strong> (the town near the park): <strong>1850 Brewing Company<\/strong> \u2014 craft beer and great burgers.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><!-- GYG:YOSEMITE (no mapping) --><\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Yosemite\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_Yosemite\"><\/span>Where to stay in Yosemite<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Accommodation in Yosemite Valley needs to be booked <strong>6\u201312 months in advance<\/strong>. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/yosemite-valley-lodge-yosemite-national-park.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Yosemite Valley Lodge<\/a><\/strong> ($200\u2013350\/night) and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Curry%20Village%20Yosemite&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Curry Village<\/a><\/strong> (canvas tent cabins, $100\u2013150\/night) are the most popular. Outside the park: <strong>Mariposa<\/strong> or <strong>El Portal<\/strong> have motels for $100\u2013180\/night. Camping: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.html?ss=Upper%20Pines%20Campground%20Yosemite&amp;aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Upper Pines<\/a><\/strong> ($26\/night, recreation.gov, lottery system).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_20%E2%80%9321_San_Francisco\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_20-21_San_Francisco\"><\/span>Day 20\u201321. San Francisco<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco.jpg\" alt=\"Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco\" class=\"wp-image-160786\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-700x438.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-1536x960.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/usa-zapad-san-francisco-1392x870.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Frank Schulenburg, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s about 3.5\u20134 hours from Yosemite to San Francisco and it&#8217;s a beautiful way to end the road trip. You arrive from the wilderness into one of the most beautiful cities in America \u2014 and you&#8217;ll be surprised how much you&#8217;ve missed civilisation (and how much you&#8217;ve been looking forward to it at the same time). \ud83d\ude04<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 20:<\/strong> Walk across the <strong>Golden Gate Bridge<\/strong> \u2014 ideally in the morning, before the fog lifts (or right as it rolls over the bridge, which is even more magical). From there, head to <strong>Sausalito<\/strong> \u2014 a charming little town on the other side of the bay with views back towards SF. In the afternoon, visit <strong>Fisherman&#8217;s Wharf<\/strong> (touristy, but you have to see it once) and <strong>Pier 39<\/strong> (sea lions!). For Chinese food, head to <strong>Chinatown<\/strong> \u2014 the oldest in North America.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Day 21:<\/strong> In the morning, drive down the <strong>famously winding Lombard Street<\/strong> (that iconic zigzag road), check out the <strong>Painted Ladies<\/strong> at Alamo Square (the colourful Victorian houses from Full House), and in the afternoon, explore the <strong>Mission District<\/strong> \u2014 the best street art, Mexican food and hipster coffee shops in the whole city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have extra time, <strong>Alcatraz Island<\/strong> is a fantastic day out \u2014 the audio tour of the former prison is absolutely gripping. But you MUST buy tickets in advance, it sells out weeks ahead ($41\/person, approx. \u20ac38).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Where to eat:<\/strong> SF is the number one foodie city. <strong>Tartine Bakery<\/strong> in the Mission (best bakery, queues to match), <strong>Swan Oyster Depot<\/strong> \u2014 legendary oyster bar (arrive before opening, there&#8217;s always a queue!), <strong>La Taqueria<\/strong> \u2014 the best burrito in San Francisco (many say in all of America). For dinner: <strong>Foreign Cinema<\/strong> in the Mission \u2014 great food with films projected on the courtyard wall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_San_Francisco\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_stay_in_San_Francisco\"><\/span>Where to stay in San Francisco<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>San Francisco is an expensive city \u2014 expect <strong>$120\u2013250\/night<\/strong> for a standard hotel. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/hi-sf-fisherman-s-wharf.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">HI San Francisco Fisherman&#8217;s Wharf<\/a><\/strong> is a great hostel at a reasonable price. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/us\/boheme.html?aid=2397601\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Boh\u00e8me<\/a><\/strong> in North Beach is a boutique classic. For better value, try staying in <strong>Oakland<\/strong> across the bay \u2014 it&#8217;s 15 minutes on BART and significantly cheaper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_6383.jpg\" alt=\"San Francisco\" class=\"wp-image-50822\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_6383.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_6383-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_6383-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/IMG_6383-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">San Francisco<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_to_wrap_up\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Practical_tips_to_wrap_up\"><\/span>Practical tips to wrap up<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_pack\"><\/span>What to pack<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The American West means extreme temperature swings \u2014 40 \u00b0C (104 \u00b0F) in the desert during the day, 5 \u00b0C (41 \u00b0F) in the mountains at night. Layering is key. Check out our detailed <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/carry-on-packing-tips\/\">guide on packing into carry-on luggage<\/a> \u2014 yes, even for 3 weeks it can be done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flights\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Flights\"><\/span>Flights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Search for cheap flights on comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. One-way tickets (LA \u2192 SF or vice versa) are often cheaper than a return to the same city. From London, direct flights to LA are available with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, while budget options with a stop can often be found on Norwegian or through Icelandair via Reykjavik.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_rental\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_rental\"><\/span>Car rental<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Luk\u00e1\u0161 and I have had consistently good experiences with <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"RentalCars.com\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/rentalcars-com\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">RentalCars<\/a>, which we use all over the world. For the west coast USA, we recommend an SUV with full coverage insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Insurance\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Insurance\"><\/span>Insurance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For a three-week trip to the USA, don&#8217;t skimp on travel insurance \u2014 healthcare in America is astronomically expensive. For longer trips, we go with <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Safety Wing\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/safety-wing\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">SafetyWing<\/a> \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/safetywing-travel-insurance-review\/\">read our review<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_data\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mobile_data\"><\/span>Mobile data<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An eSIM from <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Holafly\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/holafly\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">Holafly<\/a> works brilliantly in the USA \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/holafly-esim-review-travel\/\">our review<\/a>. Signal in national parks is limited, but for navigation, download offline Google Maps before you go!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Read_next_more_articles_about_the_west_coast_USA\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Read_next_more_articles_about_the_west_coast_USA\"><\/span>Read next: more articles about the west coast USA<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Want a deeper dive into some of the parks on this route? Here are our detailed guides to individual national parks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/zion-national-park-utah-tips\/\">Zion National Park<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 8 tips for one of Utah&#8217;s most beautiful parks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/grand-canyon-things-to-do\/\">Grand Canyon, Arizona<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 15 tips for exploring the canyon rim<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161122\">Yosemite National Park<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 15 tips on waterfalls, granite walls and sequoias<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/?p=161091\">Death Valley National Park<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 15 tips for the hottest place in America<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/arches-national-park-utah-tips\/\">Arches National Park<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 15 tips for the park with over 2,000 arches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/beautiful-places-usa-visit\/\">What to see in the USA: 10 most beautiful places<\/a><\/strong> \u2014 ideas for where to go next in America<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_about_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about a west coast USA road trip<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you set off, here are answers to the questions our readers ask most often about a west coast USA road trip.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024394\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_cost\"><\/span>How much does a west coast USA road trip cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>It depends on your travel style. For two people over 21 days, expect to spend \u20ac3,900\u201310,000 total (\u20ac1,950\u20135,000 per person) including flights, car, accommodation, food and activities. A mid-range option mixing camping and motels works out at around \u20ac3,125 per person.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024395\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_days_do_you_need_for_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_days_do_you_need_for_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip\"><\/span>How many days do you need for a west coast USA road trip?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The absolute minimum is 14 days, but you&#8217;ll be rushing. Ideally allow 18\u201321 days \u2014 you&#8217;ll have time for hikes, rest and spontaneous detours. With 14 days, we&#8217;d suggest skipping 1\u20132 parks (e.g. Sequoia or Canyonlands).<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024396\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_car_should_you_rent\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_car_should_you_rent\"><\/span>What car should you rent?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>An SUV or crossover with high ground clearance. Some roads (Monument Valley, Death Valley) are unpaved or sandy. You can manage with a compact car, but you&#8217;ll be nervous and won&#8217;t be able to access everywhere.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024397\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_an_ESTA_or_a_visa_for_the_USA\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_an_ESTA_or_a_visa_for_the_USA\"><\/span>Do I need an ESTA or a visa for the USA?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>British citizens need an <strong>ESTA<\/strong> (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) \u2014 fill in the online form at least 72 hours before departure. It costs $21 (approx. \u00a317) and is valid for two years. Only apply through the official website esta.cbp.dhs.gov \u2014 there are plenty of scam sites that charge much more.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024398\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_west_coast_USA_safe\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_the_west_coast_USA_safe\"><\/span>Is the west coast USA safe?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, the west coast USA is very safe for tourists. The biggest &#8220;dangers&#8221; come from nature \u2014 dehydration in the desert, storms in the canyons, wildlife. Always carry plenty of water, check the weather forecast and follow park rules. In the cities (LA, SF, Vegas), use normal urban common sense \u2014 don&#8217;t leave valuables in the car.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024399\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_I_book_accommodation_and_activities\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_I_book_accommodation_and_activities\"><\/span>When should I book accommodation and activities?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>As early as possible. Accommodation in national parks (especially Yosemite and Grand Canyon) sells out <strong>6\u201312 months in advance<\/strong>. Book your Angels Landing permit and Antelope Canyon tour <strong>3\u20134 months ahead<\/strong>. Motels outside the parks can be booked last-minute, but during peak season (June\u2013August) it&#8217;s better to book ahead too.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1778780024400\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_do_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_in_winter\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_do_a_west_coast_USA_road_trip_in_winter\"><\/span>Can I do a west coast USA road trip in winter?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Partly, yes, but with limitations. Tioga Road in Yosemite is usually closed from November to May, Bryce Canyon can be under snow (though it looks stunning!), and some campgrounds are shut. On the other hand, desert parks (Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Grand Canyon) are pleasant temperature-wise in winter and blissfully crowd-free. If you go in winter, skip Sequoia and Yosemite (or just visit Yosemite Valley, which is accessible year-round).<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"usa itinerar\" lang=\"en\" rendered=\"2026-05-15T06:05:44+00:00\" v=\"1\" -->\n<style id=\"lk-gyg-styles\">\n@import url(\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Playfair+Display:wght@700&family=DM+Sans:wght@300;400;500;600&display=swap\");\n\/* === LKM GYG karty \u2014 sjednocen\u00e9 se Stay22 modulem === *\/\n.lk-gyg-module * { box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0; }\n.lk-gyg-module a,\n.lk-gyg-module a:link,\n.lk-gyg-module a:visited,\n.lk-gyg-module a:hover,\n.lk-gyg-module a:active {\n  background: none !important;\n  background-color: transparent !important;\n  background-image: none !important;\n  box-shadow: none !important;\n  text-decoration: none !important;\n  border-bottom: none !important;\n  color: inherit;\n}\n\n.lk-gyg-module {\n  font-family: 'DM Sans', Georgia, sans-serif;\n  max-width: 860px;\n  margin: 2.5rem auto;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #fdfaf5 0%, #fcf8f0 100%);\n  border: 1px solid #e8dfd4;\n  border-radius: 16px;\n  overflow: hidden;\n  box-shadow: 0 16px 48px rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.25), 0 4px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);\n}\n\n\/* HEADER *\/\n.lk-gyg-header {\n  position: relative;\n  padding: 28px 32px 24px;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #c39f76 0%, #d4b188 60%, #c39f76 100%);\n  display: flex; 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background-position: center;\n  background-color: #eee;\n}\n.lk-gyg-image--empty {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #eee, #ddd);\n}\n\n.lk-gyg-body {\n  padding: 16px 18px 20px;\n  display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 9px;\n  flex: 1;\n}\n\n\/* BADGES \u2014 v\u017edy rezervov\u00e1no m\u00edsto na 2 \u0159\u00e1dky, a\u0165 CTA sed\u00ed ve stejn\u00e9 v\u00fd\u0161ce *\/\n.lk-gyg-badges {\n  display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 5px;\n  min-height: 44px;\n  align-content: flex-start;\n}\n.lk-gyg-badge {\n  display: inline-flex; align-items: center;\n  font-size: 9.5px; font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 1px;\n  text-transform: uppercase;\n  padding: 3px 9px; border-radius: 14px;\n  width: fit-content;\n}\n.badge-top {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #c39f76 0%, #d4b188 100%);\n  color: #fff; box-shadow: 0 2px 6px rgba(195,159,118,0.3);\n}\n.badge-urgency {\n  background: rgba(195, 51, 51, 0.08); color: #b53939;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(195, 51, 51, 0.2);\n}\n.badge-new {\n  background: rgba(54,133,252,.08); color: #3685fc;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(54,133,252,.2);\n}\n.badge-info {\n  background: rgba(195,159,118,.10); color: #a67e50;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(195,159,118,.2);\n}\n\n\/* TITLE *\/\n.lk-gyg-title {\n  font-family: 'Playfair Display', Georgia, serif;\n  font-size: 15.5px; font-weight: 700;\n  color: #111827; line-height: 1.3;\n  display: -webkit-box;\n  -webkit-line-clamp: 2; -webkit-box-orient: vertical;\n  overflow: hidden;\n}\n\n\/* META *\/\n.lk-gyg-meta {\n  display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: space-between;\n  gap: 8px; flex-wrap: wrap;\n  margin-top: 2px;\n  font-size: 12.5px;\n}\n.lk-gyg-rating {\n  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 4px;\n  color: #525252; font-weight: 500;\n}\n.lk-gyg-rating svg { flex-shrink: 0; }\n.lk-gyg-reviews { color: #888; font-weight: 300; }\n.lk-gyg-price {\n  font-size: 12.5px; color: #6b7280; font-weight: 300;\n}\n.lk-gyg-price strong {\n  color: #c39f76; font-weight: 600;\n}\n\n\/* CTA \u2014 modr\u00e9 tla\u010d\u00edtko, p\u0159ilepen\u00e9 dol\u016f *\/\n.lk-gyg-cta {\n  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center;\n  gap: 7px; margin-top: auto;\n  padding: 10px 16px; border-radius: 8px;\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #3685fc 0%, #2a6fd9 100%);\n  color: #fff; font-size: 12.5px; font-weight: 500;\n  letter-spacing: .3px; transition: all .2s ease;\n  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.25);\n}\n.lk-gyg-card:hover .lk-gyg-cta {\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, #2a6fd9 0%, #1e5bc4 100%);\n  box-shadow: 0 6px 16px rgba(54, 133, 252, 0.35);\n}\n\n\/* FOOTER *\/\n.lk-gyg-footer {\n  padding: 16px 32px;\n  background: linear-gradient(to bottom, #fdfaf5 0%, #f9f4ed 100%);\n  border-top: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.15);\n  display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: space-between;\n  flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 12px;\n}\n.lk-gyg-footer-note {\n  font-size: 11.5px; color: #6b7280; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.5;\n}\n.lk-gyg-all-btn {\n  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 6px;\n  font-size: 12.5px; font-weight: 500; color: #c39f76 !important;\n  text-decoration: none !important;\n  border: 1px solid rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.35);\n  padding: 8px 16px; border-radius: 8px;\n  transition: all .2s ease;\n}\n.lk-gyg-all-btn:hover {\n  background: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.08);\n  border-color: rgba(195, 159, 118, 0.5);\n  text-decoration: none !important;\n}\n\n\/* RESPONSIVE *\/\n@media (max-width: 700px) {\n  .lk-gyg-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n  .lk-gyg-header { padding: 22px 20px; }\n  .lk-gyg-htitle { font-size: 19px; }\n  .lk-gyg-footer { padding: 14px 20px; }\n}\n\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"lk-gyg-module\" data-query=\"usa itinerar\">\n  <div class=\"lk-gyg-header\">\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-icon\">\n      <svg width=\"28\" height=\"28\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"#c39f76\" stroke-width=\"2\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><circle cx=\"12\" cy=\"12\" r=\"10\"\/><polyline points=\"9 11 12 14 17 9\" fill=\"none\"\/><\/svg>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-header-text\">\n      <div class=\"lk-gyg-eyebrow\">Doporu\u010den\u00e9 z\u00e1\u017eitky<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-gyg-htitle\">Usa Itinerar<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lk-gyg-subtitle\">Vstupenky a tour p\u0159es <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"lk-gyg-grid\"><a class=\"lk-gyg-card featured\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/los-angeles-l179\/half-day-la-city-tour-start-from-hollywood-or-santa-monica-t411252\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"lk-gyg-image\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/bfce05c07a45833239d557f902a088780b1268905033ca4beb73d359c3f63341.jpg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Los Angeles: Best of LA City Tour with Stops &amp; Free Time\"><\/div><div class=\"lk-gyg-body\">\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-badges\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-title\">Los Angeles: Best of LA City Tour with Stops &amp; Free Time<\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-meta\"><span class=\"lk-gyg-rating\">\n        <svg width=\"12\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"#c39f76\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M12 2l3.09 6.26L22 9.27l-5 4.87 1.18 6.88L12 17.77l-6.18 3.25L7 14.14 2 9.27l6.91-1.01L12 2z\"\/><\/svg>\n        4.6 <span class=\"lk-gyg-reviews\">(2 139)<\/span>\n      <\/span><span class=\"lk-gyg-price\">od <strong>K\u010d\u00a01,391<\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n    <span class=\"lk-gyg-cta\">\n      <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n      Zobrazit a rezervovat\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n<\/a><a class=\"lk-gyg-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/san-francisco-l61\/from-san-francisco-yosemite-day-tour-w-giant-sequoias-hike-t391337\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"lk-gyg-image\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/73fc037e3d19a468955e38ef9bb4ef6ac783bacf740c3a1110c981d187889995.jpeg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike &amp; Pickup\"><\/div><div class=\"lk-gyg-body\">\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-badges\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-title\">From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike &amp; Pickup<\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-meta\"><span class=\"lk-gyg-rating\">\n        <svg width=\"12\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"#c39f76\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M12 2l3.09 6.26L22 9.27l-5 4.87 1.18 6.88L12 17.77l-6.18 3.25L7 14.14 2 9.27l6.91-1.01L12 2z\"\/><\/svg>\n        4.9 <span class=\"lk-gyg-reviews\">(1 450)<\/span>\n      <\/span><span class=\"lk-gyg-price\">od <strong>K\u010d\u00a04,980<\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n    <span class=\"lk-gyg-cta\">\n      <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n      Zobrazit a rezervovat\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n<\/a><a class=\"lk-gyg-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/california-l560\/redwood-national-and-state-parks-guided-walking-tour-t1308280\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=west-coast-usa-road-trip-itinerary\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"lk-gyg-image\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/1ca24e6bc04d180e5ab971b00628578fc426d6a18217abeb75b82f929ab59d85.jpeg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Redwood National and State Parks: Guided Walking Tour\"><\/div><div class=\"lk-gyg-body\">\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-badges\"><\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-title\">Redwood National and State Parks: Guided Walking Tour<\/div>\n    <div class=\"lk-gyg-meta\"><span class=\"lk-gyg-rating\">\n        <svg width=\"12\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"#c39f76\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M12 2l3.09 6.26L22 9.27l-5 4.87 1.18 6.88L12 17.77l-6.18 3.25L7 14.14 2 9.27l6.91-1.01L12 2z\"\/><\/svg>\n        0.0 <span class=\"lk-gyg-reviews\">(0)<\/span>\n      <\/span><span class=\"lk-gyg-price\">od <strong>K\u010d\u00a03,313<\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n    <span class=\"lk-gyg-cta\">\n      <svg width=\"14\" height=\"14\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M18 13v6a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H5a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V8a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h6\"\/><polyline points=\"15 3 21 3 21 9\"\/><line x1=\"10\" y1=\"14\" x2=\"21\" y2=\"3\"\/><\/svg>\n      Zobrazit a rezervovat\n    <\/span>\n  <\/div>\n<\/a><\/div>\n  <div class=\"lk-gyg-footer\">\n    <span class=\"lk-gyg-footer-note\">\n      \ud83d\udd17 Odkazy jsou partnersk\u00e9 \u2014 v\u00e1m cenu nezm\u011bn\u00ed, n\u00e1m pom\u00e1haj\u00ed tvo\u0159it obsah.\n    <\/span>\n    <a class=\"lk-gyg-all-btn\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/s\/?q=usa+itinerar&amp;partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n      V\u0161echny z\u00e1\u017eitky\n      <svg width=\"12\" height=\"12\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.5\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><polyline points=\"9 18 15 12 9 6\"\/><\/svg>\n    <\/a>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A complete day-by-day itinerary for a 14\u201321 day west coast USA road trip from LA to San Francisco \u2014 with specific stops, restaurants, accommodation tips and prices. Whether you have two weeks or three, you can tailor the route to suit you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":129634,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[374,681,320,684],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-161044","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-north-america","8":"category-road-trips-travel-itineraries","9":"category-travel","10":"category-united-states-of-america-usa"},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/grand-canyon-3.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161044","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=161044"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161044\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":162068,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/161044\/revisions\/162068"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/129634"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=161044"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=161044"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=161044"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}