📍 United States

NORTHERN SIERRA LOOP: VOLCANIC PEAKS TO ALPINE LAKE BEAUTY

Volcanic peaks smoking above pine forests, alpine lakes reflecting Sierra granite, giant sequoias guarding cathedral groves. Northern California rewards.

≈ 8
Days
1012
Km
5
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Start in Redding with Shasta as backdrop, then explore Lassen between fumaroles and volcanic landscapes. Reach Truckee and its railroad heritage, then pause at Lake Tahoe and its deep waters. End at Yosemite's western entrance, quieter, amid sequoias. A mountain itinerary, ideal for seeking fresh air and panoramic roads.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Redding

sundial bridge shasta dam volcanic gateway

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Discover

1
Arrival and prep in Redding.
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Next stop
Distance: 107.5 km
Travel time: 1h48
2
Day

Lassen Park

bumpass hell volcanic wonderland hydrothermal trails

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Discover

1
Lassen Volcanic NP — hydrothermal features and short summit trails.
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Next stop
Distance: 217.7 km
Travel time: 2h43
3
Day

Truckee

donner pass railroad history mountain town

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Discover

1
Drive to Lake Tahoe region via Feather River Canyon.
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Next stop
Distance: 61.3 km
Travel time: 1h01
4
Day

Lake Tahoe

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Discover

1
Emerald Bay State Park viewpoints and Tahoe Rim Trail segment.
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Next stop
Distance: 160.3 km
Travel time: 2h
5
Day

Yosemite Groveland

western entrance tuolumne grove big oak flat

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Discover

1
Tioga Road (if open) entry into Yosemite’s high country.
2
Yosemite Valley loop trails or waterfalls.
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Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 465 km
Travel time: 9h18
6
Day

Redding

sundial bridge shasta dam volcanic gateway

🔍

Discover

1
Return north via Central Valley orchards.

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🛡️ Travel advice - United States

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks.

Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 6 and 10 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in United States?

Continental diversity with iconic landmarks, cultural melting pot, and endless possibilities. Experience natural wonders, vibrant cities, and authentic American dreams from coast to coast. The country offers incredible diversity with modern amenities and cultural richness. United States provides life-changing experiences with natural beauty and cultural authenticity.