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Explore California's Best with Shaka Guide's California Audio Tour Bundle!

Discover Lake Tahoe's clear waters, Joshua Tree's otherworldly landscapes, Yosemite's majestic beauty, and Death Valley's unique geology. With our GPS audio tours, you're guided to hidden gems and iconic sights. Explore at your own pace and let the journey begin!

Whether you're traversing the serene landscapes of Lake Tahoe, exploring the unique desert terrain of Joshua Tree, marveling at the stark beauty of Death Valley, or admiring the majestic peaks and waterfalls of Yosemite, Shaka Guide ensures a rich and informative journey.

Book your California adventure today!

Activity location

Memorial Point Scenic Overlook
- Tahoe Boulevard
- 89704, New Washoe City, Nevada, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

M478+XM Cactus City
- Cactus City, California, United States

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

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California Audio Tour Bundle Get 4 Audio Tours in English

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4d
Opening hours: Thu 12:00am-11:30pm
English

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Language options: English

Price details

$29.99 x 1 Traveler$29.99

Total

What's included, what's not

Tours NEVER expire
Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive using GPS
Offline Audio Guided Tour: Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
Offline map (map and GPS work completely offline - no wifi or data needed)
Freedom to explore at your own pace - pick the stops you want, skip the ones you don’t
Private transportation
Meals and refreshment
Parking Fees
Entrance Fees

Know before you book

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Lake tahoe

27 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Not included

Memorial Point Scenic Overlook

This marks the start of the leg that leads around the east side of Lake Tahoe on the Nevada side, as you head south along Highway 28 through Incline Village, with spectacular views of the lake, Sierra Nevada Mountains on the California side, and the Carson Range to your left. There is an incredible walking and biking path called the East Shore Trail that runs alongside this part of the lake, which is just brilliant to take advantage of if you’re staying around Tahoe for longer than the day. You can park at Memorial Point for about 20 minutes for free and walk down the stairs to the trail and even further if you want to touch the water or stand on some of Tahoe’s huge iconic boulders. Grab some photos and enjoy that view!

Sand Harbor Beach

This beach is simply stunning. It’s actually got three beachfronts that all have different landscapes and views, with a nature boardwalk that is a must-do! It is a gorgeous, rambling, easy walk full of discovering wildlife creatures and water views for miles in every direction. Pay the entrance fee and park wherever you can. You can walk a path that leads to all three beaches. The beach furthest south has a sandy beach and very shallow water pretty far out into the lake, making it perfect for stand-up paddleboarding! The middle section of this park is where the Visitor Center is and a really wonderful cafe where you can dine outside overlooking the lake. The two beaches on the north side of the park have those huge boulders that make it so much fun for kids who want to climb, and add such character to your photos.

Logan Shoals Vista Trail

From this point, you’re heading toward South Lake Tahoe along Highway 50. And this overlook is very popular for those taking wedding and engagement photos. You’ll understand why once you park and walk up the short paved path for the views. Because at the last couple of stops you were close to lake level, and now….you’re high above Lake Tahoe. These panoramic views are just breathtaking!

Cave Rock - Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park

Another must-see stop! You can pay just two dollars for a 10 minute photo opp! And after approaching Cave Rock and driving through that short tunnel, you’re going to want to head down to the shoreline and look straight up at the entire rock formation and cave! It is a marvel, for sure!

Zephyr Cove

You may not want to pay another entrance fee if you’re not planning on beaching it for the day, but you can pull into the entrance, then bear left for the restaurant and general store and park there just to get out for a few minutes and see this gorgeous beach and the forest surrounding it, complete with little log cabins you can rent for lodging. But if you do want to pay the fee and spend a little while at this beach, or make a reservation on the M.S. Dixie Paddlewheeler for a boat ride out on the lake, I can’t say I blame you! There’s volleyball and water activity rentals available from here, too.

Nevada Beach

Oh my gosh, this is another beachfront that is a must-see. The beauty of this beach is astounding. Once you drive down the road it’s on, you’ll see a wooden fence along the side of the road. So if you don’t want to pay to park in the lot, you can turn your car around and find a parking space along the fenceline. Then you’ll see a beautiful walking path that you can take down to the shoreline of this gorgeous beach. The view from here of all the mountains in the distance that surround the lake, and the soaring trees along the shoreline make the landscape so unusual and glorious!

Heavenly Village Way

You’ll come to Heavenly Village, full of shops and places to eat. Once you park, walk inside the main hotel lobby of Heavenly to purchase tickets if you want to take the gondola ride for heavenly views of the lake.

Camp Richardson Resort

You’ll know what street to turn down for the beachfront because of the adorable log cabin General Store on the corner! Stop inside because it’s a cozy place and on a chilly day the fire will be going and you can even grab a meal from the little cafe, or shop for some souvenirs.

Tallac Historic Site

Definitely worth a walk-through. Park and take the trails through the old summer estates of the past. The Baldwin Museum, if open, is an old log cabin that you can tour. Some of the other old log cabin mansions on the water are just super cool to walk around, all in the gorgeous forest along the lake.

Taylor Creek Visitor Center

The next road from Tallac leads to another visitor center and some nature trails. If you’re pressed for time, this is an optional stop that I’d say isn’t a priority – unless it’s salmon spawning season, in which case you can follow the creek along the Rainbow Trail and watch the bright orange salmon swimming upstream!

Inspiration Point Vista

Once you leave Taylor Creek you’ll start to climb again until you’re at a good 8,000 feet or so above sea level, and – boy oh boy – keep both of your eyes on the road and your wheels on the pavement because if you look over the edge (there are no guardrails) you’ll see just how long that drop-off is with the lake way, way down below. But the payoff at the top is an overlook that beats the band! Inspiration Point will give you a jaw-dropping view of Emerald Bay, which lives up to its name – believe me! And you’ll also see Fannette Island down below, the only island in all of Lake Tahoe, that sits in the middle of Emerald Bay.

Eagle Falls Trail

If you’re taking this tour in the spring or early summer, you may want to take the popular Eagle Falls hike that leads up to an amazing waterfall, flowing strong due to the snow melting off of the mountains above it. But if you’re visiting toward the end of the summer or in the fall, the waterfalls will be down to a trickle – if that – since all the snow has already melted, in which case you can skip this stop unless you just want a nice hike through a forest. This is one of the few stops on the left side of the road.

Emerald Bay State Park

Between the emerald- green bay, the sandy shoreline, that tiny island and the castle itself, the photo opps are stupendous! And the hike to get there is pretty nice, too, full of pocket waterfalls and rugged cliffs rising out of the ground, along a well-worn and wide path.

D.L. Bliss State Park

There’s a sweet little Visitor Center that you should stop inside upon arriving at this park, for souvenirs or for some maps and to talk to a ranger or volunteer. Although Shaka Guide’s got you covered on directions, it always helps to have a park ranger describe the conditions of The Rubicon Trail and where to park for Balancing Rock. Once you’ve stopped inside, we’ll drive the park’s forest to three sights so worth seeing!

Balancing Rock Nature Trail

You’re taking what seems like a dirt trail to find the little brown signage alerting you that you’re at the short trail leading up to this unique formation that looks like it’s going to topple at any second! So see it while you can! You’ll need a selfie, of course :)

Lester Beach

This is a sweet shoreline that you can walk, among those iconic Tahoe boulder formations. But if you’re short on time or there’s no parking, it’s not a priority to see the beach itself.

Rubicon Trail

Just past Lester Beach, still inside D.L. Bliss State Park, you’ll head up a hill to the very popular Rubicon Trail. It’s super long and you don’t need to take the whole thing, but I’d recommend you take it for maybe ten minutes out and back just to see a view of the lake from high up along the cliffs of this trail. Just be careful and stick to the path! There’s also an abandoned lighthouse trail, but that’s a little more challenging and time consuming. Now if you love to hike and you have a whole day to do so, this trail leads all the way to Emerald Bay and Vikingsholm Castle!

Sugar Pine Point State Park

Follow the path along the lake heading south (with the lake to your left) until you see the railroad tracks that head right into the lake! An Instagram-worthy photo if ever there was one! Especially with the clarity of the water, so that you can literally see the tracks almost to the bottom of the lake floor!

Hellman-Ehrman Mansion

Once you pull into the main lot, look for the tall fire-lookout-type building, and if it’s open, you can stop inside this nature center to see the exhibits. But really, what you want to do is either tour the Hellman Ehrman mansion, or really just walk around the estate grounds. But certainly do at least step foot on the back porch of the mansion and check out the lake view from there before heading down that mega-lawn and walking out along the pier over Lake Tahoe!

Olympic Valley

This is an absolutely amazing valley to see, and to know that the ski slopes above it are where the Olympics once took place! In the summer or fall, when everything in the valley is green and lush, the verdant view feels like you’ve been transported to a land far, far away. And if the gondola is open, take it to the top for the Olympic museum exhibit and Washoe tribe displays!

Lake Tahoe Dam

Lake Tahoe Dam is a vital engineering marvel situated on the northwest shore of Lake Tahoe, a breathtaking freshwater lake straddling the border of California and Nevada. Built in the early 20th century, the dam serves as a crucial component of the Tahoe Regional Water System, regulating the water levels of the lake and providing various benefits to the surrounding region.

Commons Beach Park

Commons Beach is a charming lakeside retreat located in Tahoe City, on the north shore of Lake Tahoe. This inviting public park offers a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning lake views and tranquil ambiance, Commons Beach provides a perfect setting for relaxation, recreation, and community gatherings.

Watson Cabin Museum

You’ll come to the Watson Log Cabin and Penny Bear! And if you head down the steps from there or down through that parking lot, you can walk out on the public pier over the lake. You can see all the way across to the opposite side for a view of Heavenly Mountain! There are also some wonderful restaurants right along the lake in this town for dining on the waterfront. On the way to our next stop, we’ll pass Carnelian Bay. Make a quick stop for a photo if the view grabs your attention, because it’s hard to ever tire of the views from every part of the lake loop!

Kings Beach

This is a super popular beach, but if you’ve already been to Sand Harbor, then there’s not really a need to pay to stop at Kings Beach. (And if it’s a choice between Kings Beach or Sand Harbor, I’d choose Sand Harbor any day over Kings Beach.) They’re similar in that they have gradually deepening shorelines, so the water stays shallow (and thereby warmer) longer than at some of the colder, deep-water beaches around the lake, but the view from here isn’t quite as mesmerizing as that of Sand Harbor. Still, many people love this beach and town. To me, the town is similar to Tahoe City but with less to offer. So this stop is not highest on the priority list of stops if you’re having to pick and choose for time’s sake.

Historic Stateline Fire Lookout

This is a wide, semi-paved path to an old fire lookout well over 7,000 feet elevation (but remember – you’re already pretty high up before you start along the trail so you’re not climbing that many feet) for a view overlooking Lake Tahoe that you won’t find anywhere else.

Lake Tahoe Scenic Overlook

There’s an overlook along a hairpin turn out of Incline Village for one last memorable look down at Lake Tahoe.

Tahoe Meadows Ophir Creek Trailhead

Tahoe Meadows South Trail is a scenic hiking path in Lake Tahoe. It winds through picturesque meadows, fragrant forests, and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. With its gentle terrain and abundant wildlife, this trail provides an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts to connect with the unspoiled beauty of the region.

Day 2: Yosemite National Park

29 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Not included

Tunnel View

Exit the mile-long Wawona Tunnel and park at this stunning scenic viewpoint of the entire Yosemite Valley. El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall frame the view to the left and right respectively, with Half Dome hanging out in the background. This is a popular stop, so don’t be surprised if you need to wait for a parking spot, but people don’t tend to linger long.

Bridalveil Falls

A paved, 0.5-mile trail is all it takes to reach the base of Bridalveil Fall. This 620-ft waterfall is one of the few in Yosemite not reliant on snowmelt, so it flows reliably year-round. The trail is known to get wet, especially during the spring, so prepare to enter the splash zone and watch your step. If the parking lot by the trailhead is full, there’s additional parking along Southside Drive and additional trailheads that connect back to the main trail to the waterfall.

Cathedral Beach Picnic Area

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area Yosemite National Park CA

Though the bridge doesn’t swing, the footbridge over the Merced River at this picnic area features a fabulous view of Yosemite Fall. Like Cathedral Beach, this is another good spot to enjoy the Merced River’s waters for a swim. Plenty of picnic tables also make this a scenic spot for a packed lunch.

Curry Village

It’s a handy place to park the car. Here, you can hop on the free shuttle either to Yosemite Village or over to trailheads for the Mist and Mirror Lake trails. While you’re here, you can grab a bite to eat at the Curry Village Dining Pavilion. You can even rent a bike at the kiosk by the parking lot and get around on two wheels for the next few hours.

Yosemite Village

If you wanted a long break from hiking or driving, you could spend hours in Yosemite Village. The Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, and Ansel Adams Gallery provide a mix of educational and cultural amenities on this largely outdoorsy tour. You can also do some grocery or souvenir shopping at the Village Store or grab a bite to eat at Degnan’s Deli.

Ahwahnee Historic Building

This is one of the grandest lodges in all the national parks, and you can enjoy some of its amenities without being a guest. Browse the gift shop, select a treat at the sweets shop, grab a drink at the bar, or just wander the public spaces like the airy Great Lounge. Of course, the main attraction is the pricey but elegant Dining Room. Join for the breakfast buffet or get a bite to eat for lunch. Dinner requires reservations and a dress code that doesn’t include sweaty hiking clothes.

Lower Yosemite Fall

It’s only an easy, paved, half mile hike to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, the tallest waterfall in North America. Walk the left side of the loop to get a full view of the falls as you approach. Reliant on rainfall and snowmelt, the waterfall largely dries up by mid-to-late summer.

Yosemite Falls Parking

You’ll likely park somewhere else and walk to Lower Yosemite Fall from there, but like Curry Village, this is a handy spot. The trailhead for Lower Yosemite Fall is about 10 minutes away, and on the way you’ll pass Yosemite Valley Lodge where you can grab a bite to eat in the Base Camp Eatery or a coffee at Starbucks. There’s also a bike rental kiosk by the pool. This parking lot is also next to the trailhead for the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail. This strenuous 7.2-mile hike takes you to the top of Yosemite Fall, and on the way, Columbia Rock for a magnificent view of the valley.

El Capitan Meadow

One of the most awe-inspiring spots in Yosemite is El Capitan Meadow, sandwiched between two granite monoliths: El Capitan and Cathedral Rock. Squint to find rock climbers ascending the 3,000-ft granite wall of El Capitan. Sunrise and sunset are especially good times to sit in the middle of the valley and allow yourself to become dumbstruck by nature’s craftsmanship.

Yosemite Valley

This small pull-off on the side of Northside Drive offers a similar view of Yosemite Valley as the Tunnel View scenic overlook, but from a lower vantage point along the banks of the Merced River. Again, El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall frame the gorgeous panorama.

Southside Drive

Heading into Yosemite Valley from the north takes you to this pull-off as Southside Drive crosses the valley to reach Wawona Road. The pull-off is a good teaser look at El Capitan, as well as an important historical spot. It was here that President Theodore Roosevelt and conservationist John Muir camped and discussed the future of Yosemite.

Wawona Tunnel

Can’t get enough granite? Stop at this pull-off for a look at the mouth of Yosemite Valley, with tall, granite cliffs leading toward famous landmarks like El Capitan.

Yosemite Valley Vista Point

Stop at this small-pull off for a preview of Yosemite Valley, with Half Dome poking its head out far off.

Mariposa Grove

Take a free shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center to Yosemite’s largest and most impressive grove of sequoia trees. Hiking trails range from easy, short and paved to long and strenuous, so you decide how long you’d like to be here. We recommend at least going as far as the Grizzly Giant, one of the largest sequoia trees in the world.

Wawona Hotel, National Historic Landmark

Wawona is a Victorian-era resort that predates the park itself and wasn’t added until the early 20th century. Here you’ll find the Yosemite History Center, with relocated pioneer buildings from around the park interpreting Yosemite’s history. You’ll also find the Wawona Hotel, still looking as Victorian as ever. The hotel’s dining room is a solid choice for lunch or dinner.

Taft Point Trailhead

There are two trails to two terrific vantage points over Yosemite Valley from this trailhead. You can take them both out and back, or do them both in a loop. Taft Point is an easy to moderate, 2.2-mile hike to a stunning look at Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan and Yosemite Fall.

Washburn Point

The view at this scenic overlook is a teaser for what’s coming ahead at Glacier Point. Half Dome is the main focal point, with Nevada and Vernal Falls below. Beyond, the Sierra Nevada Mountains stretch for miles.

Glacier Point

A brief walk from the parking lot takes you to one of the most astounding views in the United States, or even perhaps the world. Standing at Glacier Point puts you over 3,000 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley. Wonder at Yosemite Fall, Half Dome, and its fellow granite mountains of the Sierra Nevada from this amazing scenic overlook.

Tuolumne Grove

It’s a 2.5-mile hike round-trip to a small grove of 25 sequoia trees. Smaller and quieter than the more impressive Mariposa Grove in the south end of the park, this grove sits at the bottom of a hill and is accessed by hiking down a disused road.

Olmsted Point

Another sweeping look at the Sierra Nevada, the view from Olmsted Point is an unusual angle of Yosemite Valley, with the other side of Half Dome clearly visible. There’s plenty of open granite to walk around and explore different angles. To the left is a good view of Tenaya Lake.

Tenaya Lake Picnic Area

We think this is the best view around crystal-clear Tenaya Lake. Stand on the granite lakeshore and enjoy the alpine view. If you decide to hike the easy Tenaya Lake Trail, which can be done as a loop or as an out and back, expect to spend another hour or two.

Pothole Dome

An hour at most is all it takes to get a stunning look of Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. This granite dome on the edge of the open meadow isn’t terribly tall or steep, so it only takes a few minutes to reach the top for the panoramic view.

Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center

Grab what information you need and learn about Tuolumne Meadows, one of the largest subalpine meadows in the Sierra Nevada, at Yosemite’s second largest visitor center. There’s a trailhead to tiny Soda Springs by the building. If you take this easy, flat, 1.6-mile round trip hike through the meadow, expect to spend another hour here.

Lembert Dome Trail

There are two hikes to choose from at this trailhead. One 1.8-mile hike ascends Lembert Dome, another fabulous look at Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding granite domes of the Sierra Nevada. The other is a lengthy hike through Lyell Canyon, but we recommend just going about 30 minutes in for a scenic “twin bridges” area around Tuolumne River.

Carlon Falls Trail

This 3-mile out-and-back trip is a mostly easy hike, minus an uphill climb to get to the falls themselves at the very end. The falls are small by Yosemite standards but you may enjoy playing in the pool at the base of the waterfall. Bonus: this trail in the woods is very shaded!

O'Shaughnessy Dam

Stand atop the over 400-ft tall O’Shaughnessy Dam and behold the Hetch Hetchy valley, a second Yosemite Valley to some, but with a deep reservoir of clean water. The highlight here is hiking the 5-mile trail to Wapama Falls, and getting to stand at the base of this impressive waterfall that’s over 1,000-ft tall. The spray from the falls is sublime relief from the California sun.

Stanislaus National Forest Sign

Quick photo-opp time! There’s a large Yosemite National Park sign just before you reach the Big Oak Flat Entrance Gate. Hop out of the car and grab a pic for grandma.

Big Oak Flat Information Center

Located within the park just after the Big Oak Flat Entrance Gate, this small visitor center features some restrooms (probably much-needed at this juncture of a long drive) as well as a small bookstore. Park rangers are on hand to answer questions.

Day 3: Death Valley National Park

19 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Not included

Journigan’s Mill

This is the first stop on Emigrant Canyon Rd, the optional detour toward the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns. There’s not much left of this former processing plant from the early 20th century, but the foundations, empty tanks, and other relics may interest photographers and history buffs.

Wildrose Campground

The second stop on Emigrant Canyon Rd, this former campground for the Civilian Conservation Corps is a good place to stretch your legs as you make the long drive toward the charcoal kilns. Walk through the remaining campground buildings, located right off the road.

Charcoal Kilns

Ten unusual, beehive-shaped charcoal kilns are lined up in a row thousands of feet up in the Panamint Range. Step inside one and you may still get a whiff of that charcoal!

Stovepipe Wells Village

If you plan to eat a meal or buy gasoline within the park, we recommend doing it in Stovepipe Wells, a wayside with visitor services and accommodation.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

The only sand dunes you’ll see on the tour! You can view the dunes from the parking lot, but it’s more fun to explore the dunes on foot and wander among the mesquite trees for some social media-worthy pictures. This is a top pick for sunsets and stargazing, too.

Devils Cornfield

There’s a peculiar patch of Arrowweed near the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes that appears like bunches of corn in a field. There’s not much to look at, but a small parking area allows visitors to safely park and get a closer look.

Salt Creek Interpretive Trail

A 0.5-mile boardwalk runs along the Salt Creek wetland, a critical watering hole for critters and home to the endangered Salt Creek Pupfish. The easy trail is down a dirt road.

Harmony Borax Works

Explore what's left of the earliest mining operation in Death Valley. Placards throughout the short path interpret the various buildings and mechanisms required to process borax. You'll also see one of the wagons pulled by the famed 20-mule teams.

Mustard Canyon

Though there’s no actual stop, you can take a detour into a small canyon with an unusual yellow tinge. Before driving this road, check with the park for the road's current conditions. In normal circumstances, this dirt road is reasonably well-maintained but still bumpy, and not advisable for vehicles with low clearance. 10. Furnace Creek Visitor Center

Furnace Creek Visitor Center

A must-stop for information, flush toilets, a water refill station, and a museum with excellent displays on the natural and human history of Death Valley.

The Ranch at Death Valley

Furnace Creek is the only place to eat a meal and get gas within the park. Prices are higher here, but you’ll find an ice cream parlor, buffet-style restaurant, and Wild West-themed saloon. There’s also an excellent General Store with souvenirs and a small grocery section. And if you want to know more about the area’s mining history, you can visit the Borax Museum.

Devils Golf Course

Enjoy the otherworldly shapes of Death Valley’s salt flat, down a short dirt road from Badwater Road. There’s no trail, and you’ll want to make sure you have sturdy shoes if you wander into the ‘golf course.’ That salt can hurt!

Badwater Basin

The lowest point in North America, and the highlight of a trip to Death Valley. There's a boardwalk by the parking lot, but you're welcome to wander into the valley on the Badwater Basin trail. Go as far as you'd like into the interior of Death Valley's famed salt flats, but it's about 1 mile in to reach the cool geometric shapes in the salt, making this a 2-mile round trip hike.

Natural Bridge Trail

The trail to the natural bridge rock formation is flat, but rocky. It's about 1 mile round-trip from the parking lot to the bridge and back.

Artist's Drive

Artists Drive is a one-way road that ascends up toward the Black Mountains into a twisty canyon. The drive itself is fun, as you maneuver through a tight desert landscape. But the highlight is a stop along the road called Artists Palette, where minerals in the rock create a colorful cliff. You can explore on foot for a closer look.

Golden Canyon Trailhead

This is one of the most popular hikes in the park, taking hikers through a lifeless canyon. It's about 3 miles, or 5 kilometers round-trip to the Red Cathedral cliff formation.

Zabriskie Point

One of the most iconic views in the park, overlooking rock formations Red Cathedral and Manly Beacon. This spot is also noted for its film history and its role as the album cover for U2's Joshua Tree. The walk from the parking lot to the overlook is short and paved, but steep.

Twenty Mule Team Canyon

Like Mustard Canyon, this is a dirt road adventure into a tightly curving canyon. And there’s no specific stop, but it’s about a 15-minute detour from the main tour route. Before driving this road, check with the park for the road's current conditions. In normal circumstances, this dirt road is reasonably well-maintained but still bumpy, and not advisable for vehicles with low clearance.

Dante's View

A truly stunning sight to behold. Ascend over 5,000 feet to this overlook directly above Badwater Basin. From here, you’ll see the lowest point in North America with the dramatic Panamint Range looming over it on the other side of the valley. And on clear days, you can see the Sierra Nevada beyond, including Mt. Whitney–the highest point in the lower 48 states. This is a popular sunset and stargazing spot.

Day 4: Joshua Tree National Park

20 stops
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Not included

Bajada Nature Trailhead

A short trail introduces you to the desert’s plant and animal life.

Lost Palms Oasis Trail

This is a long hike through Joshua Tree’s southern Colorado Desert. It’s very scenic, but there’s little to no shade and can be brutally hot from spring to fall. Bring water and sun protection, but be prepared to be wowed by the landscape and the palm oasis at the trail’s end. You can also just take a brief look at the oasis by the trailhead, and move on to the next stop.

Cottonwood Visitor Center

Pay the park fee here, use the restrooms, or ask the rangers questions.

Ocotillo Patch

Learn more about the quirky ocotillo plant in this little pull off.

Cholla Cactus Garden

Teddy Bear chollas look furry and cute but nothing could be further from the truth: walk carefully among thousands of mature chollas along a short nature trail. Just don’t get poked, and wear good close-toed shoes.

Arch Rock Nature Trail

This beautiful natural arch is one of the largest in the area and is a popular spot for photographers. Have fun climbing around the rocks!

Skull Rock

This popular boulder looks a bit like a skull that’s melted in the desert heat. Please park carefully, as the roadside plants are fragile.

Split Rock Loop Trail

1h 30m

Hike through iconic rock formations on this easy trail.

Oasis of Mara

Use the restroom, browse the gift shop, and enjoy a brief trail around an oasis.

Joshua Tree National Park Cultural Center

Ask questions, view exhibits, and maybe buy a souvenir or two at Joshua Tree’s newest visitor center.

Joshua Tree Visitor Center

This is the last chance to stop before re-entering the park for information, a flush toilet, or a quick bite to eat.

Hidden Valley Nature Trail Trailhead

This fun little nature trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes, with rock formations to climb on and plenty of cool desert flora to take pictures of.

Intersection Rock

Vault toilets are available.

Barker Dam Trail

Note, if you take the trail counterclockwise, make sure to turn left at the fork in the trail (just before the petroglyphs) to return to the Barker Dam parking lot. If you continue straight, you'll go to the Echo T parking lot, which is further away.

Wall Street Mill Trail

Wall Street Mill was one of many stamp mills in the area, a part of Joshua Tree history. You can explore its ruins, as well as the remnants of a homestead.

Ryan Mountain Trail

1h 30m

Ryan Mountain is one of the park’s best hikes, and affords adventurers a 360-degree view of the valley and surrounding area.

Hall of Horrors Area

Yet another cool rock formation of rounded gneiss boulders in the middle of the desert.

Cap Rock Trail

The site of an attempted (and ill-fated) 1970s funeral, Cap Rock is one of many iconic gneiss formations in the park.

Lost Horse Mine Road

1h 30m

This moderate-level hike will bring you out to Lost Horse Mine, where gold ore was famously mined and stolen by one of Joshua Tree’s ne'er-do-wells, Johnny Lang.

Keys View

This lovely overlook offers gorgeous sunset views over Palm Springs, and you can also see the San Andreas Fault.

Location

Activity location

Memorial Point Scenic Overlook
- Tahoe Boulevard
- 89704, New Washoe City, Nevada, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

M478+XM Cactus City
- Cactus City, California, United States
8HQG+QR Panamint Springs
- Panamint Springs, California, United States
Pollock Pines
- 95726, Pollock Pines, California, United States
Groveland
- Groveland, California, United States

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. We offer one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore New Washoe City your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food, or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.