Complete Western US loop Ideas

[Merkwier]

Hey guys, I'll be leaving in two days from Colorado for a 3 week long trip. Heading Southwest to Cali, then north up to WA, east to glacier NP and then south back to home. I've got our Western and southern movements planned out pretty well, however the portion through Cali, OR and WA are a bit of a mystery to me still. I know I want to see big Sur, yosemite and lake Tahoe in CA, but that's about it. I've never been to the PNW so I'm not sure what's worth seeing. I prefer to avoid super touristy areas and prefer to find the hidden gems out of reach of the Carollas. I've been doing alot of googling but I'd rather hear it from you guys. Any must sees in that region or trails to follow? Thanks!

 

[v_man]

it doesn't really get more touristy than Yosemite and Tahoe in the summer. You could check out Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP for less people. The Big Sur area still has a road closure so make sure you have a work around for that.

Lassen NP gets a fraction of the attention of other NP's in CA.

There's also many beautiful trails off hwy. 395 on the east side of the Sierra. Check out the bristlecone pines in the White Mtns., the complete opposite of crowded.

 

[Merkwier]

it doesn't really get more touristy than Yosemite and Tahoe in the summer. You could check out Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP for less people. The Big Sur area still has a road closure so make sure you have a work around for that.

Lassen NP gets a fraction of the attention of other NP's in CA.

There's also many beautiful trails off hwy. 395 on the east side of the Sierra. Check out the bristlecone pines in the White Mtns., the complete opposite of crowded.

Sweet, thanks for the tips. I know Yosemite will be packed but it's one of those things you've just got to see if you're in the area.