Las Vegas to Yosemite

Question

I'm looking at driving from Vegas up to Yosemite end of July. It's just myself and a friend, definitely want to take a stop on the way but what route, stops would be recommended? I've got a lot to fit in a short space of time, I am willing to cut some things out but just want to workout if it's doable or if we'll be missing out rushing thing.

Just an overview of the trip- we land into Vegas 25th July in the evening and home again 10pm on the 4th August.

What we'd like to see in this time:

Antelope Canyon

Grand Canyon

Yosemite

San Fransisco

Los Angeles

We know that it may literally be a flying stop in SF and LA, and I was willing to not visit one, but my friend seems less keen so some insight on the Las Vegas-Yosemite portion would be so helpful!

Thank you

Answer

Hi! Your plan to combine Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Yosemite, San Francisco, and Los Angeles in about 10 days is ambitious but possible if you prioritize and plan efficiently. Here’s a detailed overview for your Las Vegas → Yosemite portion and some guidance on the whole trip.

Las Vegas to Yosemite Overview

Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite is roughly 7–8 hours without stops, but since you want to see sights along the way, it’s better to split it over 1–2 days. A few recommended routes and stops:

Route Option 1: Via Grand Canyon and Page, AZ – Most scenic if you want to hit Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon:
- Day 1: Las Vegas → Grand Canyon South Rim (~4.5 hours)
  - Short hikes or viewpoints (Mather Point, Yavapai Observation)
- Day 2: Grand Canyon → Page, AZ (~2.5 hours)
  - Tour Antelope Canyon (book in advance)
  - Optional: Horseshoe Bend viewpoint
- Day 3: Page → Yosemite (~9–10 hours) – consider stopping overnight in a town along the way (e.g., Bishop, CA) to break up the drive
Route Option 2: Direct via Nevada and Eastern Sierra – Faster if you want more time in Yosemite and California:
- Day 1: Las Vegas → Bishop, CA (~4.5 hours)
  - Optional stop: Red Rock Canyon, Death Valley detour if you like desert landscapes
- Day 2: Bishop → Yosemite (~4 hours via Tioga Pass)
  - This pass is typically open July, offering incredible Sierra views
- Skip Antelope Canyon/Grand Canyon if you want more time in Yosemite or reduce driving stress

Yosemite Highlights

In July, Yosemite is busy, so early arrival is key. Recommended areas for 1–2 days:

Yosemite Valley: Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, Tunnel View
Optional short hikes: Mist Trail to Vernal Fall, Lower Yosemite Fall Loop
Tioga Road for high-country views if time permits

Tips for Efficiency

Book Antelope Canyon tour in advance — they sell out quickly
Consider staying overnight near Grand Canyon or Page to reduce consecutive driving hours
Yosemite lodging inside the park can be competitive; booking early is recommended, or stay nearby in Mariposa / Groveland
Driving in California can be long; plan realistic distances per day (~4–5 hours) to avoid fatigue
For the full loop: After Yosemite, drive to San Francisco (~4–5 hours) → Los Angeles (~6 hours) → LAX flight

Alternative Considerations

If the priority is nature, you may consider skipping either San Francisco or Los Angeles to allow 2 full days in Yosemite and 1 day for Antelope/Grand Canyon
If your friend insists on hitting all cities, plan minimal sightseeing in SF and LA (a few main landmarks / viewpoints) rather than trying to see everything
Mid-July to early August will be hot in the desert areas; plan early morning or late afternoon drives to avoid peak heat

In summary, the Las Vegas → Yosemite drive is doable with an overnight stop. Including Antelope and Grand Canyon will require careful planning, possibly adding a 2nd overnight before reaching Yosemite. The rest of your itinerary (SF → LA) can be handled in 2–3 days with limited sightseeing. Overall, your loop is ambitious but manageable if you accept some compromises on city sightseeing.

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