5 days in California's National Parks: Yosemite, San Francisco Maritime, John Muir

Autumn landscape with mountains, river, and colorful trees.

Experience San Francisco waterfront icons, the home of legendary conservationist John Muir, and the breathtaking granite cliffs, waterfalls, and meadows of Yosemite National Park on this five-day itinerary jam-packed with unforgettable views and history.

Duration
5 days
Perfect for
Hikers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.
Highlights
Stunning hikes, historic sites, coastal views, and iconic city landmarks.
Day 1

Exploring San Francisco’s waterfront and maritime legacy

People relaxing in a park near San Francisco waterfront; a tall ship and ferry are in the background.

Discover Fisherman’s Wharf & Hyde Street Pier

Begin your trip by exploring historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Learn about the city’s seafaring past and visit the nearby Maritime Museum.

Golden Gate Bridge at sunset over calm water with vibrant sky.

Golden Gate views and historic sites

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Crissy Field, a waterfront park with excellent views of Alcatraz and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. At Fort Point National Historic Site, delve into exhibits at the Civil War-era fortress and its storied past.

Palace of Fine Arts dome and pond with orange flowers and green shrubs.

Sunset at the Palace of Fine Arts

Take a reflective drive or walk to the Palace of Fine Arts, a historic event venue with Greco-Roman architecture and spectacular sunset views of the Golden Gate Bridge, before ending your day.

Day 2

Exploring John Muir National Historic Site

John Muir's house with palm trees under a clear blue sky.

Tour Muir’s historic home

Visit the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez, California, home of the famed naturalist who helped establish Yosemite as a national park. Stop in the visitor center, where exhibits and writings showcase Muir’s deep connection to nature and his role in the conservation movement, before exploring the Victorian-era Strentzel-Muir House.

Dirt path winding through Mt Wanda under a clear blue sky.

John Muir’s backyard

Wander the orchards of John Muir’s grounds, then hike the moderate 2.9-mile Mount Wanda Trail, named after Muir’s daughter, to experience the rolling oak woodlands he once roamed.

Carquinez Strait under a partly cloudy sky.

Martinez Shoreline

Spend the rest of the day exploring the Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline, ambling along the trails, birdwatching, or just relaxing by the water before heading towards Yosemite.

Day 3 and 4

Exploring Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point

Half Dome landscape with pine trees and a rocky peak under a cloudy sky.

A grand entrance

Arrive at Yosemite National Park through the Arch Rock Entrance. Continue to the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center to learn about the park’s geology, history, and trails.

Brown bear walking between trees on a Yosemite trail.

Valley hikes and landmarks

Yosemite Valley offers unparalleled beauty and trails to towering waterfalls and granite walls. Take the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (5.4 miles roundtrip) for an up-close waterfall experience. For a less strenuous option, visit Lower Yosemite Falls (1 mile round trip from visitor center) or take the Valley Loop Trail (11.5 miles full loop) for a full day adventure to see El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall.

Feet in foreground, overlooking distant mountains and trees at sunset.

Glacier Point views

Drive or hike to Glacier Point for a panoramic view of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra at sunset. Stay until nightfall for brilliant skies.

Day 5

Exploring Tuolumne Meadows & Tioga Pass

Snow-capped mountains with scattered trees under a blue sky with clouds.

Scenic drive on Tioga Road

Drive along Tioga Road, stopping at Olmstead Point for a unique perspective of Half Dome. Continue to Tuolumne Meadows, a peaceful alpine area perfect for hiking and picnicking.

Person standing on rock, overlooking Cathedral Lake with mountains reflected.

Hike to Cathedral Lakes

Take on the Cathedral Lakes Trail (7 miles roundtrip) to experience pristine high-country lakes surrounded by towering granite peaks.

Snow-capped mountains, lush green valley, and blue sky with white clouds.

Relax by Tenaya Lake

Say your goodbyes to Yosemite at Tenaya Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful lakeside stroll or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters before having an evening picnic on its shores.

Rock climber ascending a steep cliff face with climbing gear.
Golden Gate Bridge over historic fort, clear blue sky.
Fort Point, San Francisco
Maritime Museum in San Francisco
Maritime Museum, San Francisco
Wapama Falls bridge over a rushing waterfall, mountains in the background.
Wapama Falls bridge
1 of
Sunlit meadow with yellow flowers, trees, and distant Half Dome in soft light.
Optional add-on

Half Dome

Those lucky enough to win the Half-Dome Lottery will want to spend another day in Yosemite for this iconic hike to the top of the famous granite dome.

Visit Smart

Plan ahead

Yosemite requires reservations for certain entry periods, and Tioga Road is only open seasonally. Check road and park conditions in advance, and try to make reservations up to a year in advance for campsites.

Know your limits

Many hikes in Yosemite National Park can be strenuous and dangerous for the unprepared during snowy months–be prepared and check trail conditions ahead of time.

Be prepared for changing weather

Yosemite’s high elevations and San Francisco’s coastal climate can bring sudden temperature shifts. Dress in layers and carry the right gear for each environment.

Leave no trace

These areas are important natural and cultural sites. Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and be mindful of wildlife.

1 of