Question We(my husband and our 5yr and 4yr old kids) are planning a trip from LA-Sequoia NP-Yosemite NP -San Francisco-LA in oct. for 1 week.Can you suggest how we make our itinerary...like where to stay, how much time we need to spend in NP,which hike is must considering that we have 2 young kids.
Thanks
Answer well, I'm not that familiar with Sequoia so can't give you too much help there.....but I know it should take about a half day to get there from LA, depending on traffic. I do know that you need to make reservations YESTERDAY...especially for Yosemite if you want to stay in the park. IT MAY BE TOO LATE TO GET WHAT YOU WANT Especially if its a weekend. I don't like to yell, but I'm serious about this. Stop reading this, go to your computer, google Yosemite Lodgings and see what's available in your price range...and make the reservations. I would recommend one night in Sequoia and two in Yosemite IF you are planning on having any time to see SF and LA. If you're not planning on sightseeing in those cities than your itinerary is more reasonable....a week is NOT enough time for both cities AND both parks. Sorry. If you're not sightseeing much in SF and LA then stay three nights in Yosemite
Where you stay in Yosemite will depend on your price range and what's available. Remember, the high country lodges are shut down in October so there are fewer options. Awahnee Hotel is beautiful but VERY expensive. Yosemite Lodge may be your best choice with the kids IF there is availability. DON'T WAIT TO RESERVE. Even in off season it can sell out months in advance, and October is popular due to nice weather and leaves changing....
If nothing is available in Yosemite Park (A DISTINCT POSSIBILITY, don't mean to scream again but I AM SERIOUS about booking YESTERDAY!) your best bet might be the Tenaya Lodge just outside the south end of the park. Very nice and very nice with kids, and they have fall specials.
As for hikes: the one to mirror lake is good for little ones. So is the walk to Yosemite Falls. Take a stroll through the giant trees; the kids will love it. And take the shuttle buses to other places you want to go....or just walk through the valley.
It is a beautiful time of year in California, enjoy. but make your reservations for the parks NOW!
