Visit the Three Best National Parks in California This Fall
The three best national parks in California showcase the state’s incredible natural diversity, ranging from rugged mountain peaks to coastal rainforests to bubbling geothermal terrain. It’s no wonder that exploring the natural beauty of Northern California is on so many people’s bucket lists. This fall, start your road trip on the coast at Redwood National Park, through the volcanic landscapes of Lassen, and down to the iconic vistas of Yosemite for unforgettable, jaw-dropping scenery.
Lassen Volcanic Park may be less well-known than Redwoods and Yosemite National Parks in California, but it’s a hidden gem. Visitors are astounded by the geothermal features, including steaming fumaroles, bubbling mudpots, and boiling springs. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see examples of all four types of volcano: plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and stratovolcano. Despite all these geological wonders, it’s far less visited than other national parks, allowing you to enjoy nature without crowds of tourists.
When planning for a trip to national parks in California this fall, you’ll want to secure your lodging along the way. Our historic Bed and Breakfast in Northern California near Lassen National Park is the ideal home base for your adventure. Our rustic lodge has hosted travelers for over 100 years. Our cozy guest rooms have beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, and we will send you on your way each morning with a delicious hot breakfast. Book your stay today!
Road Trip to Three Best National Parks in California this Fall
Redwood, Yosemite, and Lassen Volcanic National Parks are often considered among the best national parks in California because each offers unique, iconic natural experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. In the Redwoods, visitors experience serenity among the world’s tallest trees. At Lassen National Park, visitors marvel at volcanic wonders. In Yosemite, visitors are surrounded by epic grandeur and iconic landmarks. Each park offers a unique and distinct glimpse of California’s natural beauty.
Your First Stop: Redwood National Park, where you can walk among some of the tallest trees in the world. In the ancient redwood forest, the tallest tree stands 370 feet high, while the oldest tree is estimated to be 2,000 years old. There are scenic drives along the rugged Northern California coastline, among old-growth redwoods, and past meadows grazed by Roosevelt Elk. The park covers over 130,000 acres and protects 45% of the remaining old-growth forest in California.
Make Your Second Stop Lassen Volcanic National Park, which offers a diverse landscape for visitors, featuring volcanoes, geothermal activity, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. With over 150 miles of hiking trails, there is truly a hike for every age and ability. The Devastated Trail details the 1915 eruption, the impact, and the resilience of the natural world. Manzanita Lake is a picturesque spot for paddling, fishing, and hiking, with Lassen Peak reflected in the water.
Finally, Stop at your Third National Park in California: Perhaps the best known of the three, Yosemite National Park appeals to sightseers and hardcore adventurers alike. Home to El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, this national park is one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring places in the nation. Its glacially carved valley and towering granite walls are unmatched in their scale and beauty.
Best Bed and Breakfast in Northern California near Lassen National Park
Our Bed and Breakfast in Northern California is the perfect place to stay on your road trip to the best national parks in California. Just a short drive from the entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the area and have easy access to geothermal wonders, stunning vistas, and hiking trails. Our location is the perfect base camp for your adventure, with a comfy bed and a hot shower at the end of the day.
Each morning, start your day with a full breakfast in the dining room, included with your stay. Our restaurant is decorated with antiques and historic memorabilia, providing a rustic and cozy ambiance to enjoy your home-cooked meals. In the summer months, dine outside on the deck, enjoying a view of the ponds and Carter Mountain. Lunch menu items include sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Dinner entrees, such as steak, chops, and fish, include a baked potato, a vegetable of the day, and home-baked bread.
The tavern at our Bed and Breakfast in Northern California is stocked with wine, beer, and spirits. Challenge your traveling companion to a game on our custom-made Olhausen pool table, or play cribbage, darts, or one of the many games we have. The tavern has a TV so that you can catch the game. If you are traveling as a family, kids will be entertained with our puzzles, checkers, backgammon, chess, and ping-pong maze. Relax and unwind with a book in our lounge area. St. Bernard Lodge is a home away from home for your national parks in California road trip. Book your stay now!
