San Francisco to Vegas in 7 days

[excited traveller]

Hi everyone

We're a bit of a novice in using the forum but thought it was great when we stumbled upon it when researching our trip. We're two Aussies from downunder flying into San Francisco in late June and hiring a car to drive to Las Vegas. At this stage the trip looks something like this: two nights in Lake Tahoe, drive to Yosemite and stay for three nights, then on to Mammoth Lakes for one night then on to Death Valley for one night. We would really appreciate your views on this draft itinerary and advice on the best route to take. The summer temperatures concern me a little, particularly in Death Valley. Are the planned stays too long in each place? Any suggestions on accommodation at Death Valley? Yosemite View Lodge appears to be booked out. Any other suggestions?

We are really excited about the prospects of driving and exploring in the US. It will be our first visit. This forum is really helpful and we would be grateful for any advice or suggestions.

Thanks a lot

Excited Traveller

[Mark Sedenquist]

We're two Aussies from downunder flying into San Francisco in late June and hiring a car to drive to Las Vegas.

Welcome to the Great American RoadTrip Forum! The road trip between San Francisco and Las Vegas is the most discussed route on this board. If you look at the bottom of this page you will see the first 5 of over 500 threads on this subject. So grab a pad and start reading and taking notes. We are glad you found us and I think you will get some good ideas here.

That being said, I do have some suggestions.

At this stage the trip looks something like this: two nights in Lake Tahoe, drive to Yosemite and stay for three nights, then on to Mammoth Lakes for one night then on to Death Valley for one night.

During your time at Lake Tahoe -- see if you can fit in a day trip to Virginia City -- a great place celebrating western mining culture with a truly amazing graveyard. Do you have lodging reservations in Yosemite? The ancient Bristlecone forest could be a side trip on you way south on US-395.

The summer temperatures concern me a little, particularly in Death Valley.

It is still relatively cool in late June in Death Valley (temps in the 110-114 degree range F) -- which can be a bit hot, but still pretty darn amazing. Are you staying at Furnace Creek Inn or Ranch?

Be sure to take the 20 Mule Team Drive and here are some other scenic spots.

Happy Planning!

Mark