Majestic Mountain Loop: California's Epic 3-Park Road Trip
Hi friends! This week I am so excited to have you join me on the ultimate National Park adventure organized by Visit Visalia and Visit Yosemite | Madera County! Today we’re embarking on an epic journey along California’s Majestic Mountain Loop road trip, the perfect multi-day itinerary that takes visitors to 3 different parks, featuring towering sequoias, ancient cave systems, massive granite peaks, and breathtaking waterfalls. So buckle up, and let’s explore the wonders of Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks.
Half Dome seen from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park
Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park
Majestic Mountain Loop Overview
California’s Majestic Mountain Loop connects Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks in one seamless itinerary. Spanning about 400 miles, this scenic road trip is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the crown jewels of the Sierra Nevada without feeling rushed. With gateway towns like Visalia and Oakhurst as your home bases, you’ll get the best of both worlds: easy access to the parks and all the comforts of civilization to recharge after a big day of exploring. This epic adventure can be completed in three days, as outlined on the official MajesticMountainLoop.com website...however, today we’re expanding it to four full days in these iconic parks with 5 incredible stops for each day, helping you maximize your national park experience. Join me below as we spend a day in Sequoia, a day in Kings Canyon, and two days in Yosemite!
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The Darling Hotel in Visalia, CA
Sierra Sky Ranch in Oakhurst, CA
Picking the Right Home Base
Picking the right home base for your adventures is such an important decision for planning a successful national park adventure. This is especially critical when organizing a multi-park road trip like California’s Majestic Mountain Loop.
Visalia for Sequoia & Kings Canyon: Visalia is a vibrant little city with a big heart and the perfect launchpad for Sequoia and Kings Canyon adventures. Located less than an hour from Sequoia’s Ash Mountain Entrance, you can enjoy boutique hotels, an eclectic food scene, and a charming downtown vibe. Staying here means you’re close enough for sunrise in the parks but can return to relax with rooftop dining in the evening. For more info on this charming city, check out my full First-Timer’s Guide to Visalia post.
Oakhurst for Yosemite: Nestled in the Sierra foothills, Oakhurst is a laid-back mountain town that serves as a gateway to Yosemite’s South Entrance. It’s ideal for exploring southern Yosemite highlights like Mariposa Grove, Wawona, and Glacier Point. With cozy inns, family-friendly activities, independent coffee shops, and incredible local restaurants, it’s worth lingering a little longer in Oakhurst between park days. For more info on this lovely community, check out my full 10 Reasons to Stay in Oakhurst post.
Sequoia National Park sign
Day 1: Sequoia National Park
Start of Day Tip: Set your first day up for success by starting your trip the night before at one of Visalia’s great lodging options. I personally love The Darling, a chic Art Deco-inspired boutique hotel in downtown Visalia. With its rooftop dining, on-site amenities, and stylish rooms, it’s an oasis before heading into the wilderness. After waking up refreshed, begin your day at one of Visalia’s local roasters. My go-to is Mission Coffee, known for artisanal espresso drinks, seasonal lattes, and fresh-baked pastries.
Giant Forest Museum & Sentinel Tree in Sequoia National Park
Stop 1 – Giant Forest Museum
From Visalia, head into the park via the Ash Mountain Entrance and enjoy the scenic drive up Generals Highway as it winds up into the Giant Forest. Pop into the Giant Forest Museum to learn about the towering trees all around you with all kinds of interactive displays and hands-on exhibits. Just outside, snap a pic in front of the Sentinel Tree, the perfect introduction to Sequoia National Park.
Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park
Stop 2: Moro Rock
Hiking: 0.5 mile RT, 275 ft elevation
Feeling adventurous? Head down Crescent Meadow Road and climb the 400 stone steps that weave up Moro Rock for jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the Kaweah River Valley thousands of feet below. This striking granite dome offers a short but steep hike, and the scenery from the summit is a photographer’s dream.
Tunnel Log in Sequoia National Park
Stop 3: Tunnel Log
No visit to Sequoia is complete without a photo at Tunnel Log. This unnamed giant sequoia tree is believed to have been well over 2,000 years old when it fell across the roadway due to natural causes in 1937. When it fell, the Civilian Conservation Corps decided to carve out a tunnel for cars to drive through rather than removing the tree entirely. Decades later, park visitors can still drive through it today!
General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park
Stop 4: General Sherman Tree
Hiking: 1 mile RT, 200 ft elevation
A paved trail to General Sherman descends gently and rewards visitors with an up-close view of the world’s largest tree by volume. Standing 275 feet tall and over 100 feet in circumference at the base, this living legend is over 2,000 years old and still growing. Once you reach the base, snap the quintessential photo with the sign, and then walk the short path around the tree for more awe-inspiring views.
Crystal Cave entrance in Sequoia National Park
Stop 5: Crystal Cave
Hiking: 1 mile RT, 300 ft elevation
End the day with an underground adventure at Crystal Cave. This marble cavern is adorned with shimmering stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations, offering a cool break from the summer heat. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides and must be reserved in advance through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy.
End of Day Tip: Complete your day by returning to Visalia for dinner at Elderwood, The Darling’s rooftop restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes paired with a sunset view over the Sierra Nevada. If you’re not ready to call it a night, take a stroll in Downtown Visalia, enjoying the neon marquee of the historic Fox Theatre and grabbing a sweet treat at Scoops on Main.
Kings Canyon National Park sign
Day 2: Kings Canyon National Park
Start of Day Tip: Before checking out of your Visalia hotel, head back up to the Elderwood for a rooftop breakfast and delicious iced-coffee. If you’d like to switch things up, head over to Valhalla for a Danish-inspired meal in a family-friendly atmosphere. Then drive north for a little over an hour to Kings Canyon National Park to begin the second day of our 3-park itinerary.
General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park
Stop 1: Grant Grove
Hiking: 0.5 mile loop, 60 ft elevation
Start your day just inside Kings Canyon’s Big Stump Entrance at Grant Grove. Stroll among some truly impressive giants here, including the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world. This marvel was declared the “Nation’s Christmas Tree” by President Coolidge in 1926. This easy loop takes you past more awe-inspiring sequoias and points of historical interest, including the Fallen Monarch Tree, which you can walk through!
Boyden Cavern entrance in Kings Canyon
Stop 2: Boyden Cavern
Hiking: 0.75 mile RT, 50 ft elevation
Drive the winding and truly remarkable Kings Canyon Scenic Byway down to Boyden Cavern. Technically located outside the national park boundaries in Sequoia National Forest, you’ll find this hidden gem nestled beneath the towering 2,000-foot marble walls of Kings Canyon along the Kings River. This family-friendly cave tour showcases marble formations and underground waterways—perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
Roaring River Falls in Kings Canyon National Park
Stop 3: Roaring River Falls
Hiking: 0.3 mile RT, 25 ft elevation
Especially impressive in late Spring and early Summer, Roaring River Falls is an aptly named cascade that plunges through a narrow granite chute. This stunning 40-foot waterfall is located right off the main highway and is easily accessible by a paved, wheelchair-friendly trail just a third of a mile long, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities.
North Dome seen from Zumwalt Meadow
Stop 4: Zumwalt Meadow
Hiking: 1.5 miles RT, 90 ft elevation
Take in one of Kings Canyon’s most picturesque settings with a gentle hike around Zumwalt Meadow. This serene trail meanders along lush meadows, over a suspension bridge, through boulder piles, and beneath towering granite walls. Visitors enjoy spectacular views of Kings Canyon’s iconic North Dome, as well as opportunities to encounter all kinds of wildlife, including black bears, deer, marmots, and various bird species.
Muir Rock near Road’s End in Kings Canyon
Stop 5: Road’s End
Continue to Road’s End, where the pavement stops and the wilderness begins. Here you’ll find the “jumping off” point for some of the park's most iconic trails, including the Bubbs Creek Trail and Copper Creek Trail. One of the more popular hikes takes visitors to the beautiful Mist Falls, an 8-mile round trip trek that is sure to impress, especially in the early Summer months when the water is at its peak flow. Even if you don’t take a back-country adventure, Road’s End is still worth the visit. Consider walking the short path to Muir Rock, where the naturalist John Muir often gave public talks, sharing his knowledge and passion for this region.
End of Day Tip: After completing your Kings Canyon adventure, make your way north towards Yosemite, checking into one of many great lodging options in the gateway town of Oakhurst, CA. For a truly unique stay just 20 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance, consider Sierra Sky Ranch, a historic lodge that’s been welcoming guests for well over a century. Then head out and reward yourself with a delicious meal with locally-sourced ingredients at South Gate Brewing Company.
Yosemite National Park sign
Day 3: Yosemite National Park
Start of Day Tip: Before heading into the park, kick-start your day at Clash Coffee, where you can fuel up with a variety of unique signature lattes, smoothies, and freshly-baked treats. Before hitting the road, make sure to check out the incredible mural of Oakhurst that wraps around the exterior of the building, which makes for a great photo opp!
Grizzly Giant at Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Stop 1: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Big Trees Loop Hiking: 0.3 mile loop, 25 ft elevation
Grizzly Giant Loop Hiking: 2 mile loop, 300 ft elevation
Home to more than 500 mature giant sequoias, Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove includes the legendary Grizzly Giant and the walk-through California Tunnel Tree. In addition to being an impressive intro to the park, this was the very first area of land set aside by the U.S. government for preservation, signed into law by President Lincoln in 1864 and laying the groundwork for our entire national park system.
Wells Fargo building at the Yosemite History Center
Stop 2: Yosemite History Center
Hiking: 0.25 mile RT, 10 ft elevation
The Yosemite History Center features a walkable collection of historic buildings, including a beautiful covered bridge. This area tells the story of Yosemite’s earliest park rangers, settlers and stagecoach travelers. Here you’ll get a feel for what it was like before paved roads and modern lodges, back when visiting Yosemite was a truly rugged adventure.
Taft Point at Yosemite National Park
Stop 3: Taft Point or Sentinel Dome
Taft Point Hiking: 2.2 miles RT, 200 ft elevation
Sentinel Dome Hiking: 2.2 miles RT, 450 ft elevation
Drive up Glacier Point Road to head out on a hike to Taft Point, which offers some of the most jaw-dropping views over Yosemite Valley, with sheer cliffs that drop thousands of feet straight down. There is a small guardrail at the main viewpoint, and the experience is exhilarating, offering one of the most epic views in the entire park.
Another option, heading out from the same trailhead, is the hike to Sentinel Dome. From the top you’ll encounter a magical scene with panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and the High Sierra peaks in the distance.
Half Dome seen from Washburn Point
Stop 4: Washburn Point
Continue up Glacier Point Road to Washburn Point, which offers a very unique profile view of Half Dome, along with an unbeatable look at Nevada Fall, Vernal Fall, and the famous Mist Trail down below. This overlook was named in honor of the Washburn brothers, who ran the historic Wawona Hotel and completed the Wawona Road, providing park visitors access to Yosemite from the south for the first time.
Yosemite Falls seen from Glacier Point
Stop 5: Glacier Point
Hiking: 0.25 mile RT, 50 ft elevation
Cap off your day at the famous Glacier Point, an unbeatable panorama with Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the Yosemite Valley thousands of feet below. This area offers some of the most iconic views in the whole park, and sunset is truly a magical time of day to experience them. As the sun dips behind the western ridge, Half Dome lights up in a soft, rosy glow known as aspenglow, casting a warm hue across the granite. It’s one of the most breathtaking natural light shows in the park, and the perfect way to end your first day in Yosemite.
End of Day Tip: After an exhilarating day in the park, head back to the Oakhurst area for a delicious dining experience at Ducey’s on the Lake. Located on the shores of Bass Lake at The Pines Resort, Ducey’s on the Lake offers elevated American cuisine and panoramic lake views, perfect for commemorating your third day along California’s Majestic Mountain Loop.
Lower Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park
Day 4: Yosemite National Park
Start of Day Tip: Start the day off with flaky pastries, hearty breakfast plates, and artisan coffee beverages at Bee’s Bakery Cafe. Or if you enjoyed your time on the water the evening before, head back to the Bass Lake area for a delicious latte at Nurture Coffee + Eats!
Steam locomotive at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Stop 1: Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Start your final day along California’s Majestic Mountain Loop just outside Yosemite’s South Entrance for a fun, family-friendly experience at the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. Here you can pan for gold, explore the Thornberry Museum, and hop aboard a historic steam train for a nostalgic ride through the towering pines of Sierra National Forest. Book your train ride in advance at ymsprr.com.
Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park
Stop 2: Tunnel View
This postcard-worthy viewpoint offers one of Yosemite’s most iconic vistas, where Half Dome is perfectly framed by El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. Tunnel View has been inspiring photographers and nature lovers for generations. In fact, Ansel Adams helped make this view legendary through his black-and-white photography. Decades later, this is now one of the most photographed spots in the entire National Park System.
Yosemite Museum at Yosemite Village
Stop 3: Yosemite Village
Yosemite Village provides a hub of culture, history, information, and amenities for first-time visitors and seasoned adventurers alike. Here you can visit the Yosemite Exploration Center, stroll through the Indian Village of Ahwahnee, and check out the Ansel Adams Gallery to see how photography helped protect this place. While you’re here, grab a bite at Degnan’s, stock up at the Village Store, and chat with a ranger at the Visitor Center.
Hike to Lower Yosemite Falls
Stop 4: Lower Yosemite Falls
Hiking: 1 mile loop, 50 ft elevation
Hike the short paved path to the base of Lower Yosemite Falls, which is the final drop of the 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. This spot is lovely year round, but late Spring and early Summer is when Yosemite Falls is at its most powerful. You can feel the mist on your face and hear the roar echo off the granite walls.
Valley View in Yosemite National Park
Stop 5: Valley View
Our final stop of this epic national park road trip is at Valley View. Also known as Gates of the Valley, Valley View one of the most peaceful, postcard-worthy views in the park, and a favorite spot for photographers at golden hour. Here you’re right at river level looking back into the heart of the Yosemite Valley. El Capitan towers on your left, Bridalveil Fall crashes down to the right, and the Merced River flows gently in the foreground.
Dinner at The Darling’s Elderwood rooftop restaurant in Visalia, CA
Visalia Top Hotel & Dining Recommendations
The Darling Hotel: This beautifully restored 1930s Art Deco annex of the historic courthouse is the crown jewel of downtown. The historic staircases and hallways of this boutique hotel are adorned with lovely artwork and inspiring decor, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Book your stay here.
Visalia Marriott at the Convention Center: Located in the heart of downtown and connected with the Visalia Convention Center, this modern hotel is ideal for walking to dining, shops, and entertainment. It has a pool and spacious rooms for families or groups. Book your stay here.
Elderwood: Located atop The Darling Hotel, this rooftop spot serves elevated California cuisine with panoramic views of Downtown Visalia and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. One of my favorite dishes is certainly the Seared Salmon and Nate raves about the Prime NY Strip with Thai Chili Sauce. Those looking to start their day with a delectable meal, head to the Elderwood for breakfast—I highly recommend the Avocado Toast!
Pita Kabob: Located directly across the street from The Darling, Pita Kabob is a downtown favorite for bold Mediterranean flavors, craft beer, and an energetic patio scene. Their menu is filled with flavor and delicious options, including shawarma, kabob skewers, wraps, and a hummus you won’t forget.
Mission Coffee: Located on the first floor of the old Palace Hotel, this local roaster is my favorite place to grab a caffeinated beverage before heading into the parks. It features an incredible menu filled with unique latte creations, such as the Once in a Blue Moo (with blue milk!). Mission Coffee is more than just a delicious cup of Joe—it’s a faith-based business that supports the work of the Visalia Rescue Mission with every item sold.
Dinner at South Gate Brewing Company in Oakhurst, CA
Oakhurst Top Hotel & Dining Recommendations
Sierra Sky Ranch: Located just 20 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance, this historic property has been welcoming visitors for generations. Built in 1875, ranch guests will enjoy a classic Old West experience with modern comforts and amenities. Book your stay here.
The Inelle: A modern, thoughtfully designed boutique stay nestled in the foothills right off Highway 41, The Inelle, Oakhurst Yosemite, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, offers stylish rooms and delicious on-site dining at the Hemlock Restaurant & Bar. Book your stay here.
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn: Not your average Best Western, this longtime traveler favorite provides rustic charm with modern amenities, as well as fantastic on-site dining at the Oakhurst Grill & Whiskey 41 Lounge. The Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn even features hundreds of original Yosemite-inspired paintings and murals throughout the property. Book your stay here.
South Gate Brewing Company: A local favorite for craft beer and creative American dishes, South Gate Brewing Company offers a wide array of options with generous portions.
Bee's Bakery Cafe: Start your day with flaky pastries, hearty breakfast plates, and delicious brunch options at Bee’s Bakery Cafe...and you’ll definitely want to add an artisan coffee beverage to your order!
Taft Point overlook railing in Yosemite National Park
El Capitan, Half Dome & Bridalveil Fall seen from Yosemite’s Tunnel View
Know Before You Go
• Always visit the Travel Alerts page at YosemiteThisYear.com, as well as the official Yosemite NPS and Sequoia & Kings Canyon NPS websites for the most up-to-date road conditions, air quality, and possible closures prior to your visit.
• Reservations are often required to enter Yosemite National Park during busy months. Visit the official Yosemite NPS website and Recreation.gov for more information.
• If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave these special places better than you found them so their natural beauty and historical significance can be enjoyed for years to come.
• Cell service is unreliable in many parts of Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, so bring a reliable GPS device with pre-downloaded maps. I love using Gaia GPS for iPhone and Android devices.
• This is black bear country. Bears and other wildlife can be present on trails at any time of the day or night. Feeding and approaching wildlife is dangerous and illegal. Make sure to properly store your food. Bear canisters can be found at many trailheads within these national parks.
• Cave tours are seasonal and should be reserved in advance of your visit. Crystal Cave reservations can be booked through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy website, and Boyden Cavern tours can be obtained at BoydenCavern.com.
• Many roads in Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon are closed to vehicles or inaccessible during the winter months, so plan accordingly.
Fallen Monarch at Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park
In Summary & Post Sponsors
Thanks so much for joining me this week in Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks. For a virtual visit of California’s Majestic Mountain Loop, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here.
I’d like to give a special thank you to the sponsors of this post, Visit Visalia and Visit Yosemite | Madera County. They are invaluable resources for anyone planning trips to Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and the surrounding regions. Make sure to download your free visitor guides at VisitVisalia.com and YosemiteThisYear.com for answers to all your questions about making these charming gateway towns your home base for your Sierra Nevada road trips. Until next time, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Downloadable Itineraries & Travel Guides
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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