We had a fantastic time in California at the end of July.
We arrived at L.A. and drove to Sequoia National Park and stayed there for two nights. Congress Trail was magical and I particularly also liked General Grant Trail, although there are fewer sequoias, you can see a few that have fallen decades ago (maybe centuries?) and are completely hollow, so you can go thru them.
While Little Baldy was a tough hike for the kids, they managed to complete it okay, though our favorite was indeed Moro Rock. Stunning views from the top, and a short but adventurous hike!
From Three Rivers we then drove to Oakhurst
The afternoon we arrived, on our way to Glacier Point, we even got to see a bear, and multiple deers on our hike.
Glacier Point was spectacular!
We went to the Yosemite Valley the next 2 days. I wanted to go north and drive Tioga Road, but (and I say this with big shame) while I was in the queue for the car rental, I realized my driver’s license was expired. It was my wife who did all the driving, so her rules applied. However, 2 days in the Valley was indeed the best option, so we got to see in depth.
We stayed at this fantastic cabin close to Oakhurst downtown but in a mountain nearby, and there were deer in the morning and then at sunset.
Because it rained the first day (on our way to Taft Point, actually, very windy!), Mirror Lake was refilled when we visited, which was nice.
After 3 days in Yosemite we did a last drive to San Francisco! Lovely city! I wish we had had more time to explore it, as we stayed there only 2 days and a half.
Despite the short time, our favorites activities were biking through Crissy Fields and the Exploratorium (we needed more time!! it closed at 5pm).
We also walked from “behind” the famous crooked street (kudos to the kids!) and down to North Beach to a pizzeria in Little Italy.
I’d have loved to explore more Little Italy, Chinatown (didn’t have the time at all!), and also a few days in Sausalito. But next time for sure!
We then took a flight to L.A. for some screams, laughs, and hours and hours of walking. Yeah, I’m talking about Disneyland and California Adventure Park.
We all agreed the best ones were Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout. Well…. all but our little girl. She loved the Little Mermaid ride though.
We closed our faboulous trip with Legoland, which to my surprise, we all really enjoyed! All the attractions were close to each other, the food was really good and with reasonable prices, and the attractions were fun!
Last day was 4th of July, we watched the fireworks from behind a Capitol made of LEGO. And to think I was stressed about getting a good spot because we arrived late!
I loved our vacation time, and I’m happy everyone enjoyed the nature, the city, and the parks! My only regret is not having the opportunity to try out In-N-Out!
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