“Hi, do you have the ‘Sandy the Squirrel’ card?” I asked, standing in the Yosemite National Park Visitor’s Center. See, I was on a mission. Essentially a scavenger hunt leading through Yosemite National Park and beyond. By collecting two or more trading cards, I could win a serious vacation package to return to some of the most amazing country in the USA! What I didn’t know was that this “highway” of sorts would bring me to some incredible places while visiting Yosemite.
Category / California
Search Visit USA Parks
Winding through California’s High Sierra: 11 Experiences between Yosemite and Tahoe
Deciding on experiences in some of California’s most sought after country was a real challenge! Amber and I set parameters though, and stuck with them. We needed a mix of scenery, adventure, adrenaline, and relaxation for our California road trip–and we found it, all of it! From sunup to sundown, we explored California’s High Sierra, stretching from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe. Here’s what we were able to experience and loved!
Relax and Unwind in South Lake Tahoe
I had no trouble rolling into South Lake Tahoe, California and adapting to the city’s mellow pace. From the moment the valet whisked my car away at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, I was in walking distance to the lake, hiking, live music, dining, and great entertainment.
Escape the Crowds with a Road Trip in UpState California
California is a simply astounding place. It stretches for 900 miles along the west coast of the United States and encompasses world-famous gems such as Yosemite National Park, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and many more. But along with such well known destinations come tons of tourists. Escape the crowds with a road trip to the Shasta Cascade region of UpState California. Here, there are just as many outdoor adventures to experience with a fraction of the traffic!
Zion National Park Climbing Guidelines
Rock climbing is both an exciting and risky adventure. But when you reach the pinnacle of your journey, and are surrounded by unparalleled views of your surroundings, you’ll see it’s worth any challenges you face on your way! In order to get there, though, you’ll need to follow some basic rock climbing guidelines. This set of Zion National Park climbing guidelines will give you an idea of what to expect.
Beyond Tahoe: Wine & Whitewater in California’s Gold Country
The enchanting emerald waters of Lake Tahoe have been luring visitors in for years. Beyond the beauty of the lake lies the scenic Gold Country of California, with a range of attractions and activities ripe for the picking by a true explorer. You can literally raft the American River in the morning, and sip homegrown libations by dusk. Take your pick in this budding nook of California, the charming place where El Dorado and Placer Counties join.
Why I keep coming back to Bishop, California
I’m not going to lie, I was stoked to return to Bishop, California. As in, I threw my arms around and did a little victory dance at my desk. Some places – like Bishop – just grab a hold of you, and though you’re traveling, they make you feel at home. I was thrilled to explore deeper in this underrated part of California! Visiting Bishop once again during their fall/winter season meant fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, the same friendly folks, all the same restaurants, and still much of the same great outdoor recreation. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Bishop, CA during the fall/winter season.
Bishop – Winter in a "Small Town with a Big Backyard"
On the eastern side of the Sierra—just behind Yosemite National Park—sits the town of Bishop, “a small town with a big backyard”. The town is chock-full of great restaurants, shops, fascinating museums, and mountain views in every direction. During the hot summer months, outdoor recreationalists flock to the high peaks. Throughout the winter, though, the options for outdoor activities really open up.
National Parks in the United States
Need some help planning your national park road trip? We’ve compiled a complete list of U.S. national parks by state and territory. Check them off one-by-one or build a multi-park extravaganza! If you need help planning, be sure to browse our helpful road trip itineraries which include maps and more!