Wonderful !!!
Avec les photos et tout, c'est super.
Nous n'aurons qu'un jour à Bryce donc il va falloir choisir.
Le soleil se lève à 7h05.
Nous prevoyons figure 8 Trail qui dure 5h.
Disons que vers 14h, nous serons prêt à poursuivre une autre visite.
Sachant que Bryce - Zion, il faut à peu près 2h de route et le soleil se couche à Zion à 19h51, voici les differentes possibilités. :
Si l'été est particulièrement sec, je crains qu'en septembre, la petite cascade de "Mossy Cave" soit à sec.
Après avoir fait la balade "Bristlecone Loop" et les points de vue sur la route panoramique, vous aviserez en fonction du temps qu'il vous restera.
Si vous faites une balade dans Red Canyon, je pense qu'il faudrait mieux opter pour une promenade qui vous permet de voir des formations rocheuses différentes de celles que vous aurez vues à Bryce Canyon. Nous n'avons pas vu de hoodoos lors de celle que nous avons faite et il y avait beaucoup de verdure. J'ai revu nos photos. Nous avons stationné la voiture pas loin du pont qui enjambe la route.
Si vous aviez disposé de davantage de temps, je vous aurais proposé d'aller faire un tour à Kodachrome Basin SP, qui est vraiment différent de Bryce Canyon. Mais, là, ce sera trop juste. Ce sera pour la prochaine fois.
Oui en effet, j'aviserai le temps venu.
Mieux vaut en avoir trop prévu que pas assez.😉
Combien de temps vous prevoiriez pour la balade "Bristlecone Loop" et les points de vue sur la route panoramique en prenant le Visitor Center comme point de depart et d'arrivée?
Au niveau timing, j'ai ces données là :
Sunrise 7:05 am
Depart vers 8h30 pour Figure 8 Trail : 5h
pique-nique, visitor center : environ 1h30
Camping Bryce => Mossy Cave = 12km -12 min
Mossy Cave - environ 45 min de visite
Mossy Cave => Red Canyon (Visitor Center) = 23 km - 17 min
Red Canyon - environ 1h30 de visite avec : Pink Ledges trail - 1km6 - 30 min
Photo trail - 0.5km
Red Canyon => Camping Zion = 1h30 - 114km
Sunset à 7:51pm
Pour la balade "Bristlecone Loop", prévoyez un peu plus d'une heure si vous vous arrêtez souvent pour faire des photos. La route panoramique n'est pas longue, mais cela dépend du temps passé à chaque point de vue. C'est surtout "Natural Bridge" dont je me souviens. Du Visitor Center jusqu'au bout de la route panoramique, comptez 1/2 h. Pour l'aller-retour + arrêts aux points de vue, cela fait donc un peu plus d'une heure.
Pour la "Bristlecone Loop" + la route panoramique, prévoyez donc environ 2 h 30.
Avant de faire la balade de "Mossy Cave", on avait pris un pique-nique à une table juste devant le petit supermarché de Tropic.
Pour la route jusqu'à Zion NP, on avait mis davantage de temps. Je vous conseille de vous donner une marge de sécurité, de façon à ne pas arriver la nuit sur la scenic 9, ce serait dommage, cette route panoramique vaut le coup. Le temps donné par Google maps est un minimum, il ne peut pas prendre en compte les soucis éventuels de circulation. S'il y a des travaux à un endroit ou des véhicules plus lents devant vous (genre camping-car ou autres) et si vous ne pouvez pas dépasser, cela augmente le temps de route. Une fois, nous nous sommes retrouvés sous un violent orage du côté de Red Canyon. Du coup, bien évidemment, on ne roule plus à la même vitesse. J'espère que cela ne vous arrivera pas mais, en tout cas, je vous conseille de compter plus large que le temps indiqué par Google maps.
-sur le site Alamo : http://www.alamo.fr/...ifteenperdiscountusa il y a 15% de remise ce qui fait 1101.75 euros en payant desuite. Seulement, je n'arrive pas à avoir les conducteurs gratuit pour la Californie alors que c'est bien noté
Si quelqu'un peut m'aider svp
Edit : j'ai trouvé çà sur un autre forum :
"Sur la pré-réservation, quand je mentionne le nb de conducteurs additionnels, ça me rajoute le prix des conducteurs dans les options à payer sur place.MAIS, lorsque je fais mon check-in en ligne, je renseigne toutes les infos sur tous les conducteurs, il y a le conducteur principal + 3 conducteurs additionnels et là, en frais supplémentaires, ça me met bien $0.00"
Du coup, le prix a l'air super interressant non?
Seul hic, les assurances ... et là, je suis perdu complet 🙁
J'ai contacté Alamo par mail (je prefere pour avoir une trace ecrite).
Et j'ai vraiment eu du mal à comprendre cette assurance.
Pour ma part, je ne pense pas souscrire à cette assurance mais nous sommes 5 à partir donc c'est le temps de la reflexion ... 🙂
Je vous livre les infos qu'elle m'a donné pour que çà serve à tout le monde (désolé c'est en anglais) :
Pour commencer, cette assurance est censé couvrir differents problèmes.
Roadside Assistance Protection offers the services below:
Flat Tire
Jump Start
Lockout Service
Key Replacement (NOTE: In NY, CA, NV, and KS the cost of the key will not be covered, only the service to deliver the key or perform the Lockout Service.) https://alamo.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1656/kw/Coverage : For rentals originating in California, Kansas, Nevada and New York, Roadside Plus does not include replacement of lost keys or remote entry devices.
Fuel Delivery
Je vous fais une copie en vrac des differents mails que j'ai eu :
if you opt to receive Roadside Plus Coverage it will be at a daily cost of $4.99 per day. This coverage would include lost keys, flat tires, non accident tow, jump start and key lock out. If you run into trouble during your time of rental and do not have this option, there is a service charge of an estimated cost of $45.00 for Roadside to come out. Please not that if this option is purchased through Alamo that Roadside Coverage is not refundable.
If Roadside Plus is not purchased at the counter or if you do not provide your own personal service, there is a Roadside Service surcharge if you do not have this option on the contract. A$45.00 service charge will be charged in order to launch a tow truck to assist you. If you provide your own Roadside Coverage or if you purchase Roadside Coverage through Alamo there will not be a $45.00 charge. There will be daily fee for the coverage and nothing else will be charged for this service. If you require tire repair, Roadside Service will assist you with putting on the spare. This coverage option does not pay for new tires if the tires are damaged during your rental. This coverage will simply handle non accident tow outs, jump starts for dead battery, lost keys, spare tire install.
I will provide my response in red below each question posed to better help you understand.
"If you provide your own Roadside Coverage or if you purchase Roadside Coverage through Alamo there will not be a $45.00 charge." => does Roadside Coverage = Roadside Plus? Yes!
With Roadside plus insurance, flat tyre includes only spare tire install or new tyre?
This covers a spare tire only not a new tire as that is not covered.
What I want to know is about difference with normal insurance given on Fully Inc Option and Roadside plus in case of flat tyre? The fully inclusive option covers vehicle damages only. This does not cover tires on the vehicle.
For example, if I take/don't take Road sideplus, I will have to pay/not pay new tyre.
You will pay for repairs if you choose not to take the Roadside option.
A flat tire will be replaced with a spare only. There are no other things that will be included with this service other than that. Roadside will not give you a new tire due to damages. A spare will be replaced only. If the vehicle is not drivable for any reason the vehicle will be towed and we may be able to get you into another rental vehicle.
1 : Is spare tyre well present in the car, even if I just have Full Inc. option?
Full Insurance simply covers any physical damages to the rental vehicle only. This does not cover the windshield or tires.
2: Does I have to repair flat tyre before end of my trip if I do by myself spare tyre install with Full Inc. option?
You may complete the install yourself or call Roadside Assistance for help.
3 : If I have flat tyre, mount spare tyre and do the reparation by myself, I will have nothing to pay at the end of the trip?
if you complete it yourself there will be no additinal charge as you did not contact Roadside Coverage to be charged anything.
4 : Cost of damage on the tyre and so reparation of it will be paid by me, even if I take Road Side Plus insurance (which only includs spare tyre install)?
If no damages were completed while renting no charges would be charged. If you purchase Roadside coverage and you have tire issues you may call Roadside to help you at no additional cost out of pocket as you purchasedthis coverage option at the counter.
5 : If I call Alamo to repair my tyre (not only to put it on spare tyre), what will be the cost? Because We can't drive on spare tyre, we need to repair official one I think because it's more efficient and safety on road.
The cost for Roadside Service if you did not elect for coverage is an estimated $45.00 charge.
Bonjour,
Me revoilà, j'ai fait une petite pause après toutes ces recherches et continué à rédiger mon roadbook.
Nous sommes aujourd'hui à 2 mois du grand départ !!!
J'en suis à la dernière partie du voyage avec la visite de San Francisco.
Nous aurons 2 jours et demi de visite.
Le vendredi, il est prévu la visite du centre ville que je vais détailler.
Le samedi sera la balade en vole qu'il me faut affiner encore.
Le dimanche jour du départ, il est prévu 1-2h à Fisherman Wharf et ensuite messe Gospel à Glide Church.
Voici donc ce que j'ai prévu pour la journée de Vendredi (moins de monde pour le cable-car je me dis).
1/ Cable Car Terminus Hyde Street avec arrêt à Filbert (vue sur Telegraph Hill et Coït Tower, rue la plus pentue)
2/ Lombard street ( = crookdest street (partie sinueuse entre hyde street et leavenworth street))
3/ Telegraph Hill + Coit Tower
4/ Filbert Steps (Napier Lane)
5/ Chinatown + transamerica pyramid => Stockton Street, Waverly Place (ruelle la plus pittoresque avec des temples), Golden Gate Fortune Cookie dans petite ruelle Ross Alley, Portsmouth Square, Grant Avenue (rue la plus ancienne de SF), Dragon Gate (à l’entrée de Dai Fo)
6/ Cable car California - entrer dans l’hôtel Hyatt Regency (face au Ferry Building) pour admirer le superbe atrium et prendre les ascenseurs intérieurs pour grimper au dernier étage et se diriger vers les grandes vitres qui offrent une vue extraordinaire sur la baie de SF et sur Market St - Embarcadero (Ferry Building MarketPlace)
7/ Market street via tramway – Union square – cable car corner
8/ cable car jusqu’à Mason (environ 30 min) – Pier 39 (suivant le temps) – Depart pour alcatraz (sunset 7 :13 pm, depart 5:55 pm ou 6:30 pm et être là 30 minutes à l’avance)
N'hesitez pas à me donner vos avis et suggestions !!!
C'est honnete comme prix.
Je vois qu'ALAMO a enfin descendu ses prix.
Au debut d'année, ils n'etaient pas du tout competitifs, et AVIS etait le moins cher.
J'ai fait des simuls et actuellement, c'est du même niveau qu'AVIS.
Juste pour rire, j'ai aussi essayé HERTZ, et le meilleur prix est sur le CADILLAC ESCALADE, (equivalent plus luxueux du CHEVY SUBURBAN) à 993 € pour 23 jours à vos dates depart LAX retour SFO...
Le FORD EXPLORER est à 830 €
Juste pour rire le CHEVY TAHOE est a plus de 7600 $ pour la même periode. Moins bien et presque10 fois plus cher. Qui est ce qui fait les tarifs chez HERTZ?.
bon bé voilà, je suis rentré hier en fin d'après midi après un peu plus de 3 semaines dans l'ouest americain. Bye bye les US et welcome la deprime ...
Tout s'est très bien passé. Nous avons eu beau temps pendant 3 semaines avec seulement un orage en fin d'après midi à Havasupai (mais il y avait déjà eu un orage la veille donc l'eau n’était de toute façon pas bleue avant qu'on arrive 😕), un tout début de matinée à Canyonland Island in the sky mais çà s'est levé ensuite et lors de la journée Tioga Road à Yosemite où les nuages étaient menaçant. Sinon du ciel bleu à perte de vue. Et je n'ai pas vu un seul nuage en trois jour à San francisco !!!
Mes coups de coeur sont Bryce avec le levé du soleil puis la superbe marche Queens Garden-Peekaboo loop-najajo, Zion que j'ai adoré avec Angels Landing et The Narrows (on a depassé jonction Oderville Canyon de 30-45 minutes à peu près) et qui aurait mérité une journée de plus peut être vu mon enthousiasme et pour le symbole Grand Canyon mais surtout parce que j'ai fait la randonnée South Kebab jusqu'à Cedar Ridge car les points de vue sont jolies mais rien ne vaut de descendre à l'intérieur. D'en haut, la vue est certes magnifique mais c'est tellement immense à notre échelle ... Celà est d'ailleurs valable pour tous les parcs ...
Hors concours, j'ai adoré San Francisco où il me reste des trucs à voir pour un prochain voyage.
Mon meilleur souvenir sera mon footing solitaire le dernier jour au levé du soleil en partant de notre auberge à Fort Mason jusqu'à Vista Point. Je suis parti vers 7h et j'ai couru pendant 3h à bonne allure. J'avais pris mon appareil photo et j'ai ainsi pu m'arrêter au gré de mes envies pour immortaliser ce moment magique. J’étais tellement heureux que j'aurais pu courir longtemps comme çà, avec le pacifique, le soleil levant, le golden gate, cet âme sportive qu'a San Francisco avec de nombreux joggeurs et joggeuses. Magique. Cette ville semble faite pour moi ...
Je remercie tous ceux qui m'ont aidé. Mon planning, quoiqu’un peu volumineux a été respecté quasiment à la lettre même si ce ne fut pas facile pour tout le monde.
Si certains veulent des infos ou de l'aide, n’hésitez pas à me contacter.
Hasard ou coïncidence, je me suis abonné à Geo il y a peu et je viens de recevoir mon 1° numéro : "Canada : l'appel de l'ouest"... 🙂 Vancouver, nouvelle destination ? why not !
Allez je vais courir un peu pour me libérer l'esprit ...
Mon road trip dans l’ouest américain se construit petit à petit . Pas facile de vouloir trop en voir en 3 semaines Nous partons donc dans l’Ouest en avril.…
Nous partons en septembre pour la premiere fois dans l'ouest americain, notre parcours est boucle, nos billets nos hotels, campings et vehicules aussi mais il…
Suivant les conseils avisés du forum, et après mûre réflexion, nous publions ci-dessous notre programme pour un road trip de 3 bonnes semaines en août prochain…
Je prépare mon voyage de noce depuis quelques semaines maintenant en grande partie par la lecture des carnets de voyage ainsi que le site proposés par les…
Je commence à préparer un voyage de 3 semaines aux US avec location de voiture que nous laisserions à Washington. Après avoir parcouru le forum, j'hésite entre…
Hello! The itinerary is pretty much set for August 2026. Yeah, I know it’s gonna be *super* hot. But it’s the only time we can get away.
So, here’s the plan: Montpellier-CDG-Dallas.
Stay from July 31 to August 26, 2026:
Car rental – check,
Hotels – check,
Itinerary – almost check,
Photo gear – check,
Budget – check, 🤪
Meal planning – meh, we’ll see...
Walmart, of course, for the cooler when we arrive.
And now, without too much detail...
Fort Worth:
The Longhorns and the Stockyards;
JR’s ranch (for the missus);
Medal of Honor Museum – Arlington.
Houston and NASA Space Center:
See the Gulf of Mexico/America.
San Antonio and the missions.
Fort Stockton for an overnight stop.
El Paso via Guadalupe Mountains:
El Paso and White Sands.
Tucson and the Pima Air & Space Museum:
Tombstone, Bisbee.
Phoenix:
Still working on the program.
Sedona:
Round trip around the area via Flagstaff and Williams, or the Grand Canyon (already done) – we’ll decide on the spot.
Albuquerque:
Santa Fe,
Turquoise Trail,
Los Alamos.
Amarillo via Route 66:
Old Route 66 in the city;
Big Texas Ranch Steak 😏.
Dallas:
JFK Museum;
Perot Museum;
West End district.
And through it all – the road, the road, and more road!!!
We’ll adapt day by day based on our mental and physical state (we’re not exactly spring chickens).
Hello everyone! Really damaged due to flooding caused by runoff after forest fires (a total mess!), does anyone in this friendly forum have any updates on the Apache Trail between Apache Junction and Roosevelt Dam? Is there still a section of the road that’s tough to navigate?
We're leaving at the end of June and will be driving the route between Buffalo and Cody. We’ve already booked our accommodations and a rodeo in Cody, but during the day, we’ll be driving between the two and I’m unsure about the itinerary.
Which route do you think is the most pleasant, interesting, or scenic between:
- The northern route via Highway 14 with Sheridan, Lowell, etc.
- The southern route with Highways 16/20/14, passing by Loaf Mountain Overlook, Powder River Pass, Ten Sleep Canyon...
We’ll be in a car, so we should be able to drive on any road.
Thanks for your input!
I’m almost done planning our September road trip. After our 3-night visit to Sequoia, we’ll have a stopover night in Coalinga (to break up the drive). We’ll be staying two nights in Monterey and would like to stop along the way to visit one side of Pinnacles National Park. We’re torn between the West entrance and the East entrance, and we’d like to do a short hike of no more than 2 hours since we don’t want to arrive too late in Monterey.
This park is split into two distinct zones with no connection between them, and the mileage from Coalinga to Monterey is pretty much the same for both. Which area do you recommend visiting—east or west? And which route is the most scenic?
I’ve spotted two short hikes:
- East: Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop
- West: Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop
Has anyone been there, or do you have another hike to suggest?
Thanks in advance, and have a great afternoon!
Marcalamar 🙂
After our first trip as a young couple to the West in 2007 (yes, that doesn’t make us any younger!), we’re planning to go back in 2028, but this time as a family of four! (We have two boys who’ll be 5½ and 13 years old in the summer of 2028.)
Our plan is to combine a few big cities (SF and LA, maybe San Diego) with national parks and state parks, mostly!
Ideally, we’d like to leave at the end of June and head back to France around July 19–20, so we can enjoy the first week of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Since we already did the "loop" in 2007, there are must-see places we absolutely want to revisit—and especially share with our kids: Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, and above all, the Grand Canyon, which is still the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen on Earth!
On the other hand, some places didn’t leave a big impression on us for various reasons, so we’re not making them a priority: Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, for example.
We’re planning ahead, but might as well be smart about it😏
Do you have any tips for a fun and doable itinerary over about 20–25 days with kids, without rushing?
Hi everyone! 🙂
Just a quick question about King Canyon and Sequoia National Park.
Before our night in Miramonte, we plan to visit King Canyon. The next stop will be two nights in Three Rivers to explore Sequoia National Park. I wanted to go all the way to Roaring River Falls on the King Canyon Scenic Byway and then turn back to head to Miramonte. Since we’re coming from Oakhurst, Google Maps says it’s 300 km and 5 hours of driving. Since we also want to hike to see the sequoias (Big Stump Area and Grand Grove) before tackling the King Canyon Scenic Byway, the timing’s going to be tight. How far do you recommend going before turning back to miss as few points of interest as possible on the King Canyon Scenic Byway? Thanks for your advice, and have a great evening!
Marcalamar 🙂
Hi everyone!
After years of hoping, waiting, planning, then changing, saving, and searching for the best possible route... we're FINALLY off this summer for a 5-week road trip in the West.
I had planned a trip to Colorado in 2021 but canceled due to COVID, so with time passing and my eldest’s high school graduation approaching fast, I figured it was now or never!
Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)
Here’s our final route:
Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles
Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles
Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles
Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles
Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles
Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman
Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon
Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page
Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page
Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley
Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango
Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango
Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango
Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango
Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs
Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs
Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab
Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab
Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab
Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab
Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab
Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal
Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton
Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton
Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody
Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone
Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone
Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone
Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone
Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City
Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon
Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion
Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion
Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion
Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas
Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas
Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles
Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles
Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels
Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home
We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.
I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!
We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!
Hello.
I’d like to travel along I-15N from San Diego to Las Vegas with my mom, who’s 67. We’ve explored Northern California and the California Coast over the past two years and now want to continue through the desert.
There are several attractions along the way:
- Mormon Rocks
- Desert Discovery Center and visit the Old Woman meteorite
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Mojave Desert
- Mojave National Preserve
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
- Silverwood Lake
My mom has back issues that prevent her from hiking or walking on trails with elevation changes. Is it possible to visit these places by car, or are the routes flat enough?
I’d love for her to experience the desert with an itinerary adapted to her condition. I’m also open to other points of interest that aren’t mentioned. We have 3-4 days for the trip, so we’re not in a rush—just want to explore.
I’d love to take a road trip and visit Nova Scotia. I’d appreciate some info on the best cities to see and the most interesting spots. The trip should last about 10 to 15 days, staying in hotels or motels. Thanks in advance!
We’re being relocated to Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
We’ll be taking the flight from Nantes to Montreal and then from Montreal to Saint Pierre.
Could you recommend a hotel near the departure terminal that allows dogs?
Hi,
My 16-year-old son is flying to Grand Rapids with other kids his age. There’s a layover in Detroit. There’s no unaccompanied minor service available. Is it pretty easy to navigate Detroit Airport to catch the connecting flight to Grand Rapids (domestic flight)? There are several of them who speak English well.
Thanks for your replies,
Good evening, everyone! 🙂
Just a few last questions to wrap up our Lake Tahoe visit plans.
**Parking:**
We’d like to walk to Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake. I’ve spotted two parking lots that seem close to each other and give access to the trailhead. Where and how do we pay for entry to Emerald Bay State Park and Inspiration Point?
**Viewpoints on the East Side:**
Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?
**Donner Memorial State Park:**
Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?
Hi there. I'm shocked by the price of the Upper Antelope Canyon tour—$175 for less than an hour… You might say, "if you can’t afford it…" But the real question is whether it’s really worth it, because $350 for two makes me feel like I’m getting ripped off. For those who’ve done both Lower and Upper, can you tell me if the price difference is really justified? Thanks
Hi everyone! 🙂
As you can see, we're heading back from September 6th to the 27th.
Everything’s booked for September—flights, accommodations, and the car. As I plan, I’ll be asking the experts for help. This is our second trip to California, but most of the stops are new to us.
We’ll start directly from San Francisco to our first overnight stop, Davis, before heading to Lassen Volcanic Park for 4 nights. Our flight lands at 12:50 PM.
Here’s our itinerary:
Day 1: Davis – overnight stop
Day 2: Red Bluff – exploring Lassen Volcanic Park (scenic drive to Lake Helen)
Day 3: Susanville – scenic drive through the park via the South Entrance, points of interest, and hikes
Day 4: Susanville – Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes hike
Day 5: Susanville – Warner Valley (hikes)
Day 6: South Lake Tahoe
Day 7: South Lake Tahoe
Day 8: Mammoth Lake
Day 9: Mammoth Lake
Day 10: El Portal via Tioga Road
Day 11: El Portal
Day 12: El Portal
Day 13: Oakhurst
Day 14: Miramonte
Day 15: Three Rivers
Day 16: Three Rivers
Day 17: Coalinga
Day 18: Monterey
Day 19: Monterey
Day 20: San Francisco
Day 21: San Francisco
Day 22: Departure
For hikes in Lassen Volcanic Park, I’ve planned:
Bumpass Hell, Cold Boiling Lake (Day 2)
Paradise Meadow (maybe not going all the way), Devastated Area, and the loop around Reflection and Manzanita Lakes (Day 3)
Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes (Day 4)
Devil’s Kitchen and Boiling Spring Lake (Day 5)
I’ve read there are trails to access the trailheads for Cinder Cone (11 km) and Warner Valley. Are these easy trails for an SUV?
Are there any other must-see spots or things we shouldn’t miss?
That’s where I’m at for now. Thanks for your replies, and have a great evening!
Marcalamar 🙂
I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast.
I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October.
My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.
Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips.
I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
Thanks for advising me on the booking—should I reserve a room in the hotel or go for a cabin for the best view?
Should I get breakfast or not?
What do you think of the restaurant?
Hello, if the off-the-beaten-path enthusiasts are still around 😉, I’d love some info on tackling these trails. I’m not super familiar with the rules, risks, or what to expect—I’m looking for firsthand experience from folks who’ve done it on their own once or multiple times.
Hi everyone!
I’m planning a week-long family trip to NYC in October 2026. The focus is on museums and soaking up the New York vibe. I’ve been checking Airbnb, but the prices in Manhattan are through the roof. Since I don’t know NYC well, is it "wise" to look outside Manhattan? Any neighborhoods you’d recommend?
After our first trip to the West, we’d love to go back to see other must-see spots!
The stay would be from May 11 to 20, 2026—it’s short, but hey...
M11: Lyon to Las Vegas (overnight in Vegas)
T12: Route 66 – overnight in Grand Canyon (GC)
W13: Visit GC – overnight in Page
Th14: Visit Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend – overnight in Monument Valley (MV)
F15: Visit MV – overnight in Moab
Sa16: Visit Arches / Dead Horse Point – overnight in Bryce
Su17: Visit Bryce – overnight in Zion
M18: Visit Zion / Valley of Fire – overnight in Vegas
Tu19: Return flight
What do you think? Could we add one more night somewhere? We’re not big hikers, so we’ll mostly explore the parks using shuttles.
Also, we’re all set—passports are good. Do you think one classic Visa card and one premium Visa card will be enough for coverage?
Thanks so much for your feedback, and happy holidays!
Hi North America forum crew,
Just a little post that might interest some of you:
Travelers to the United States | Photo Now Mandatory Upon Entry and Exit | La Presse
I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.
So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.
This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.
Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks...
For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400,
which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.).
Total madness.
The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.
Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!
Hi everyone, I’m traveling to Los Angeles and would like to rent a vehicle at the airport. However, I have a Boursobank Ultim deferred debit card, so I’d love to know if it’s possible for those who’ve experienced this recently. Thanks for the info!
I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.
Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels.
Cheers,
Régine
Hi,
I’m planning a road trip through the American national parks starting from Denver in June 2026.
The price of the pass is jumping from 80 € to 250 € on January 1st, 2026!!!
Is it possible to buy the pass online before the end of the year to lock in the 80 € rate? If so, where and how do I go about it?
Thanks for your tips.
Arnale
I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense?
Day 1: Orlando
Day 2: Amelia Island
Day 3: Amelia Island
Day 4: Tallahassee
Day 5: Panama City Beach
Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin)
Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way)
Day 8: Crystal River
Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater)
Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete)
Day 11: Anna Maria
Day 12: Orlando
Day 13: Orlando
Day 14: Orlando
Day 15: Departure
We just finished 9 days in the American West and wanted to share our experience because we had an amazing time.
I know some of you might ask, why use an agency? Honestly, we didn’t really feel like doing all the driving and planning, especially since we didn’t know the area at all. And since our English isn’t great, having French-speaking guides was a big comfort.
We found Emmanuelle and Isabelle, and wow, they were fantastic. It was just the two of us with them, so it was a truly VIP, ultra-personalized experience. They treated us like royalty from start to finish. These two live in Las Vegas and know the region like the back of their hand. They told us they’ve spent over 15 years exploring every corner of the American West, and it really shows. Their knowledge of geology, park history, and local anecdotes is just impressive. It’s nothing like someone reciting a memorized script. They answer all your questions and really adapt to what you want to see or do.
What we really loved: the vehicle was super comfortable, and the little details made a difference—like snacks and even a homemade cake! Though, to be fair, we devoured the cake right away, so that counts.
Since they know the sites inside out, they took us at the right times to avoid crowds. So we could enjoy peaceful picnics at Grand Canyon viewpoints without being packed in with 200 people. Plus, on top of the must-see spots, they showed us some hidden gems that were absolutely stunning—places we never would’ve found on our own. They’re true locals who know all the best tips.
The service was really personalized. They adapted to our pace and preferences, and we could stop whenever we wanted to take photos. It’s the luxury of being in a small private group—you’re not just a number on a big bus.
In short, we really felt like we were traveling with friends rather than professional guides. Everything’s included in the price (hotel pickup, meals, park entries, etc.), so the value for money is fair.
We loved it so much that we’re already planning to come back next year to explore other areas with them. I think we’ve caught the American West bug—it’s all we can think about, and we can’t wait to return.
If you’re looking for a French-speaking tour with real personalized service and guides who know the region like no one else, we highly recommend them. We had unforgettable moments. They also design road trips for those who don’t want a guide. And they handled our hotel reservations in Las Vegas too. If you want genuine advice from friendly locals, we’re giving them a 200% recommendation!
I’m currently looking for well-located hotels near points of interest in the cities below. I’ve found a few, but the prices are really high.
Could any of you share some great addresses in the following cities?
- Los Angeles
- Las Vegas
- San Francisco
Also, do you have a preferred airline for domestic flights? If so, which one?
