Ultimate San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary – Best Scenic Drive

This memorable San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip takes you through California’s most stunning landscapes, unique small towns, breathtaking desert vistas, and the most entertainment city in the USA.

👉🏼LA To Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary – Best 8 Routes, Scenic Stopovers & Stays

San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary – San Francisco to Las Vegas Drive

This SFO to Las Vegas drive is approximately 570 miles (9-10 hours without stops), but if you take stopovers, this road trip is amazing, with beautiful pit stops, scenic detours, and must-see sights.

Read this best San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip itinerary with key highlights, things to do, scenic stops, and overnight stays, and plan your drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas.

Day 1: San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

• Distance: ~190 miles (~3.5 hours)
• Route: Take I-580 E, then merge onto I-205 E to I-5 S, and then follow CA-120 E, which takes you to the heart of Yosemite. 

Stopovers and Things to Do:

Yosemite National Park—Yosemite is a stunning national park famous for its granite cliffs, dramatic views, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.

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Highlights:

• Tunnel View: A perfect photo stop offering panoramic views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
• Yosemite Valley: Hiking options like Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and the easier Lower Yosemite Fall trail.
• Mariposa Grove: A chance to see ancient giant sequoias up close.

Stay: Yosemite Valley Lodge for easy access to major park highlights and mesmerizing views.

Useful Tips:

• Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
• Reservation: Some parts of the year require an advanced reservation, especially during peak summer months.

Day 2: Yosemite to Bishop via Mammoth Lakes

• Distance: ~140 miles (~3 hours)
• Route: Continue on CA-120 E via Tioga Pass (only accessible in summer), then US-395 S.

  

Stopovers and Things to Do:

Mono Lake – A surreal, saltwater lake known for its tufa towers (unique limestone formations) and migratory bird populations.

Highlights: Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve for spectacular views and a short walk around the formations.

Mammoth Lakes: This region is known for its stunning alpine lakes and rugged Sierra Nevada mountain terrain. 

Highlights:

• Devils Postpile National Monument: Intriguing basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.
• Twin Lakes: Perfect for fishing, canoeing, and photos.
• Hot Creek Geological Site: Relax in natural hot springs with mountain views.

Stay: The Village Lodge in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy mountain resort atmosphere.

Useful Tips:

• Tioga Pass: Check for road closures, as this route may close in winter.
• Mammoth Lakes: A prime spot for winter and summer outdoor activities, so plan for crowd control during peak seasons.

Day 3: Bishop to Death Valley National Park

• Distance: ~130 miles (~2.5 hours)
• Route: Follow US-395 S, then CA-190 E directly into Death Valley National Park.

Stopovers and Things to Do:

Alabama Hills is a fantastic blend of natural rock formations and scenic views with a Hollywood history.

Highlights: Mobius Arch Loop Trail, where you can capture the famous natural rock arch framing Mount Whitney.

Death Valley National Park is known as the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Driving in this park is unique, as there are many unique driveaways that you will not find anywhere else.

Highlights:

• Badwater Basin: The lowest point in North America, with vast salt flats creating a dramatic view.
• Artist’s Palette: A scenic drive with a colorful array of mineral deposits in the mountains.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: Perfect for sunset photos and sandboarding.

Stay: The Inn at Death Valley, an oasis retreat with easy access to the main attractions in the park.

Useful Tips:

• Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
• Heat: Bring plenty of water and sun protection, and avoid strenuous activities during peak afternoon heat.

Day 4: Death Valley to Las Vegas

• Distance: ~150 miles (~2 hours)
• Route: Follow NV-160 E for a direct and scenic route into Las Vegas.

Stopovers and Things to Do:

Seven Magic Mountains (about 20 miles south of Las Vegas) – A colorful art installation in the desert composed of brightly painted boulders.

Highlights: Great for a quick photo stop and a unique contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.

Las Vegas is the entertainment city of the USA. Its famous Strip is known for world-class dining, live entertainment, and grand casinos.

👉🏼Best Places To Visit Near Las Vegas By Car – Day Trips From Las Vegas + Campgrounds

Highlights:

• Bellagio Fountains: A must-see dancing fountain show on the Las Vegas Strip.
• Fremont Street Experience: An electric display with live music and ziplining.
• Day trip to Red Rock Canyon: If you crave more nature, head west of the city to enjoy this scenic conservation area.

Stay: The Venetian Resort for a luxurious and central stay on the Strip with access to its Italian-inspired architecture and the Grand Canal.

Useful Tips:

• Parking: Many Strip hotels now charge for parking; plan to avoid fees by staying in a hotel that offers free parking.

Scenic Route Options – SFO to Las Vegas drive

1. Pacific Coast Highway Detour: Start with Highway 1 along the coast, visiting Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Monterey before heading inland to Yosemite. This scenic route is world-famous, and if you drive through it, add one more day to this San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip itinerary.
2. Route 66: From Death Valley, drive south on US-395 S and connect to portions of Route 66 around Barstow and Needles to experience a bit of “The Mother Road.”

Helpful Tips – Drive From San Francisco to Las Vegas

• Best Time to Go: Fall or spring is the best time to visit due to mild temperatures and ideal travel conditions. Winter is good for Las Vegas and Death Valley National Park, though Tioga Pass to Yosemite will likely be closed.
• Gas & Supplies: There are few Gas stations in Death Valley; therefore, fuel up your vehicle, Bishop or Lone Pine.
• Packing Essentials: Extra water, sunscreen, sunglasses, layered clothing for temperature variations, and a camera for scenic shots.
• Reservations: Yosemite and Death Valley accommodations fill up quickly, so booking ahead is recommended.
• Traffic Timing: Depart early in the morning to avoid Bay Area traffic. Yosemite and popular spots in Death Valley can also get crowded midday, so start sightseeing early. Traffic on the Strip can be heavy, so plan for delays or use alternative routes (e.g., Paradise Road or Dean Martin Drive) when navigating the city.
• Pets Policy – Pets are allowed in National Parks but not on most trails. Always keep pets on a leash and carry enough water, as conditions can be hot and dry.

This San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip itinerary comprises iconic California nature, exciting desert attractions, and the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas. Therefore, plan your drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas to enjoy the memorable moment from the coast to the casino.

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