Friday, April 18, 2025

Santa Clara County Parks

Santa Clara county parks

Parking: $6 (exception)


 

74 Results

Martial Cottle Park: farming park
3.72 mi.

Mockingbird Hill entrance: Almaden Quicksilver, no fees
3.80 mi.

Wood Road entrance, Almaden Quicksilver, no fees
3.84 mi.

Walter Cottle Lester Visitor Center, Martial Cottle
4.27 mi.

Vasona Lake County Park
4.28 mi.

Blossom Hill Road (main entrance), Vasona
4.36 mi.

Snell Avenue (main entrance), Martial Cottle
4.39 mi.

Dell Avenue (main entrance), Log Gatos Creek
4.40 mi.

Los Gatos Creek County Park: No shade, has water
4.40 mi.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park
5.21 mi.

Hacienda (main entrance), Almaden Quicksilver
5.21 mi.

Casa Grande - Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum
5.24 mi.

Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch, Santa Teresa
5.28 mi.

Rancho San Vicente entrance, Calero
5.31 mi.

Alma Bridge and Lexington Launch Ramp entrance, 
5.36 mi.

Lexington Reservoir County Park
5.40 mi.

Miller Point entrance
5.44 mi.

Pueblo entrance
5.61 mi.

Cottonwood entrance
6.08 mi.

Silver Creek Valley Road entrance
6.10 mi.

Velodrome entrance
6.14 mi.

Hellyer County Park
6.18 mi.

Santa Teresa County Park
6.48 mi.

Calero Boat Launch entrance
7.09 mi.

Montalvo Road (main entrance)
7.62 mi.

Villa Montalvo
7.66 mi.

Calero County Park
8.06 mi.

McKean Road (main entrance)
8.29 mi.

Coyote Creek Parkway
8.34 mi.

Field Sports Park
8.93 mi.


Trap and Skeet Range
9.17 mi.

Rifle and Pistol Range
9.35 mi.

Sanborn County Park
9.37 mi.

Sanborn Road (main entrance)
9.37 mi.

Metcalf Motorcycle County Park
9.59 mi.

Metcalf Motorcycle Park (main entrance)
9.62 mi.

Skyline Trail and Sunnyvale Mountain lot
9.65 mi.

Penitencia Creek
10.48 mi.

Lookout Trail and Madrone Lot trailhead
10.71 mi.

Croy Road and Uvas Canyon entrance
11.20 mi.

Uvas Canyon County Park
11.24 mi.

Stevens Creek Boat Launch entrance
11.35 mi.

Stevens Creek (main entrance)
11.39 mi.

Stevens Creek County Park
11.39 mi.

Joseph D. Grant County Park
12.47 mi.

Joseph D. Grant Ranch (main entrance)
12.54 mi.

Grant Ranch House Complex
12.60 mi.

Grant Lake entrance
12.73 mi.

Rancho San Antonio County Park and Open Space Preserve
13.04 mi.

Chesbro (main entrance)
13.17 mi.

Chesbro Reservoir County Park
13.17 mi.

Twin Gates entrance
13.76 mi.

Anderson Lake County Park
14.13 mi.

Coyote Creek Visitor Center
14.13 mi.

Sunnyvale Baylands Park
14.23 mi.

Live Oak entrance
14.61 mi.

Alviso Marina County Park
14.68 mi.

Alviso Marina (main entrance)
14.87 mi.

Uvas Reservoir (main entrance)
15.29 mi.

Uvas Reservoir County Park
15.29 mi.

 
Ed R. Levin County Park
15.60 mi.

Spring Valley entrance and park office
15.61 mi.

Sandy Wool entrance
15.68 mi.

Upper Stevens Creek County Park
16.72 mi.

Mt. Madonna Visitor Center entrance
17.96 mi.

Mt. Madonna (main entrance)
18.44 mi.

Mt. Madonna County Park
18.46 mi.

Chitactac-Adams Heritage County Park
18.76 mi.

Chitactac-Adams Heritage (main entrance)
18.81 mi.

Sprig Day Use Area entrance
19.28 mi.

Harvey Bear entrance
19.59 mi.

Mendoza Ranch entrance
23.23 mi.

Coyote Lake (main entrance)
23.32 mi.

Coyote Lake - Harvey Bear Ranch County Park
23.32 mi.


Details:


Almaden Quicksilver:  multiple entrances, no vehicle entrance fees

Calero: No shade, water

Santa Teresa: 
Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch: 11-3,4,5 on weekends
Golf Club: Start with driving range
Archery club: doesn't offer rentals
Picnic tables
Horseback riding
Horseshoe throwing

Lexington Reservoir: 

Uvas

Mt Madonna: Horse rental available, archery range

Vasona: Horseshoes, volley-ball

Villa Montalvo: no fees

Chesbro Reservoir: No vehicle entrance fees, no hiking trails, walk across dam

Martial Cottle: 

Metcalf Motorcycle: Needs a rental

Rancho San Antonio

Sanborn

Stevens Creek

Upper Stevens Creek

Chitactac Adams

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Summer 2025 options

CharDham tour operators quotes per person for 6 folks for June 2024. All include hotels, transportation, breakfast, dinner. Innova Crysta will have a carrier. We prefer Tempo 9 seater for additional space given long drives & luggage; Tempo also has carrier.


Sanjay Tours: Tempo (quote for 14 seater instead of 9 seater): Rs.1 lakh, 12 nights


From Uttarakhand tourism website: https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/assets/media/UTDB_media_1742284284listofoperator.pdf 


ABD Travels:
Spoke to friendly & knowledgeable employee Nisha
https://abdholidays.com/yatra-by-road
Website: Deluxe 34k, Luxury 65k from Dehradun
Phone: Rs.27.5k standard
Official quote:
Innova Crysta: Rs.43.5k Luxury, Rs.49k Premium
Tempo: Rs.48k, Rs.54k

Destination Luxury Hotels Premium Hotels Nights Plan

Barkot Adhvanta Cottage/Similar Rigveda Resort/Similar 02 MAPI

Uttarkashi Bhagirathi Residency/Similar Akash Ganga/Similar 02 MAPI

Phata Shiva’s Trident/Similar Buransh Heli Resort/Similar 02 MAPI

Kedarnath Guest House Guest House 01 EPAI

Badrinath Panchvati Inn/Similar Yoga Executive/Similar 01 MAPI

Rudraprayag Hotel Mandakini/Similar Pride Resort/Similar 01 MAPI



CharDhamTour:
https://www.chardhamtour.in/
Spoke to Mr.Laxmi Prasad who linked us with an employee with a different number
Deluxe Innova Crysta: Rs. 46.5k
Tempo Deluxe Rs.53.5k, Luxury: Rs.64.5k, Premium: Rs.80.5k
City Deluxe Hotel/ similar Luxury Hotel/ similar Premium Hotel/ similar Nights
Barkot Yamunotri paradise Monkey tail (Camp) Monkey tail (Cottages) 2
Uttarkashi Gangotri Paradise Shivlinga Shivlinga Premium 2
Sitapur Nanda resort Hotel Kailash Residency La Fiyoli 2
Kedarnath Aligarh bawan/Bikaner House/Behl Ashram/Muzzafar Nagar Bhawan/Jaipur House/Jalaram (basic accommodation on sharing basis) 1
Badrinath Hotel Urvashi New Yoga Lords/ Amritara/ Sarovar 1
Pipalkoti Hotel Harela Inn Samrat Resort (Rudraprayag) Monal Resort (Rudraprayag) 1



ThreeSixtyHolidays
https://threesixtyholidays.com/Chardham
Tempo

Option 1: Rs.83.5k, Option 2: Rs.65.9k

Haridwar (01N)  MJ Sarovar Portico / Godwin, Renest / Regenta Orkos

Barkot (02N) The Monkey Tail / Yamuna Valley Cottage / Similar, Veda Cottage / Yaantra Resort / Similar

Uttarkashi (02N) Shivlinga / Rajaji Hotel,  Hill River View / Yaantra Retreat / Similar

Guptkashi (02N) Shivalik Valley Resort / Char Machan / Similar, La Fiyoli / Kedar River Retreat /Kashi Retreat

Kedarnath (01N) Standard Lodge / Dharamshala, Standard Lodge / Dharamshala

Badrinath (01N) Amritara The Avadh / Sarovar Portico / Yoga Premium, Yoga Executive / Magalam / Similar

Rishikesh (01N) Monal Resort (Premium) / Kastoori Inn (Luxury), Monal Resort (Dlx) / Kastoori Inn (Standard)

Rudraprayag (01N) Modi Yoga Retreat / Divine Resort / Ganga Kinare, Divine Lakshmi Ganga / Great Ganga / Simila



Mahendra Destinations
https://www.mahendradestinations.com/gangotri-yamunotri/chardham-yatra-badrinath-kedarnath-gangotri-yamunotri/

Rs.49.5k for Deluxe with Tempo, Rs.51k for Deluxe with Innova Crysta, Rs.43k for Regular with Innova Crysta

Place nights, Deluxe, Regular

Rishikesh 1: Hotel Bliss Ganga / Similar, Hotel Neeraj

Barkot 2: Rigveda Cottage / Similar, Camp Veda/ Similar

Uttarkashi 2: Yaantra Retreat / Similar, Mahima Resort

Sersi/Guptkashi 2: Omkar Comfort / Nirvana Cottage, Omkar Comfort

Kedarnath 1: New Himachal Guest House, New Himachal Guest House 

Badrinath 1: Hotel Snow Crest / Similar, Hotel Dwarikesh / Similar

Srinagar 1: Riverside Resort / Similar, Chahat Resort / Similar

Haridwar 1: Hotel Fern Residency / Similar, Hotel SRS Lakshya / Similar



Other recommendations from friends:

Panicker travels

Southern travels (served South Indian food)


Types of vehicles

Innova: 6–7 passengers

Innova Crysta: 6–7 passengers

Bolero: 7–8 passengers

Tempo Traveller: 9–17 passengers (model: 9, 12, 14, 17 + driver)


Leave Sun June 1 night

Arrive Tue June 3 morning, reach Chennai home before noon

Wed, June 4 & Thu June 5: Anbil.

Sat, June 7-Thu June 19: 13 days Chardham Yatra

June 7, 2025: Dehradun airport, Haridwar/Rishikesh

June 8, 2025: Barkot

June 9, 2025: Yamunotri (Doli, horse), Barkot

June 10, 2025: Uttarkashi

June 11, 2025: Gangotri, Uttarkashi

June 12, 2025: Guptkashi

June 13, 2025: Kedarnath (Doli, horse)

June 14, 2025: Guptkashi

June 15, 2025: Yogadhyan Badri, Narsingh Badri, Badrinath

June 16, 2025: Badrinath, Mana Village, Vriddha Badri, Adi Badri, Rudraprayag

June 17, 2025: Drive back to Haridwar/Rishikesh

June 18, 2025: Haridwar/Rishikesh

June 19, 2025: Dehradun airport

Wed, June 25: 3 ppl fly to Hyderabad

Fri, July 4: Night train from Chennai to Hyderabad 

Sat, July 5: Ramanujar 108 DivyaDesam visit

Sun, July 6, Mon July 7: Function

Tue, July 8: 2 ppl Fly to Chennai

Tue, July 8-Wed July 9: Mantralayam & Nava Brindavanam

Thu July 10: Fly to Chennai

Thu, July 17: 3 ppl fly to Chennai

Fri, July 18: Night train to Bengaluru

Sun, July 20: Night train to Chennai

Thu, July 24: Morning flight back

Thu, July 24: Arrive back





Leave Sun June 1 night

Arrive Tue June 3 morning, reach Chennai home before noon

Thu June 5: Train to Trichy

Fri, June 6: Anbil.

Sat, June 7: Train to Bengaluru

June 7-10: Bengaluru

June 10, 2025: Mysuru train

June 11, 2025: Mysuru

June 12, 2025: See Belur temples. Stay in Chikmaguluru

June 13, 2025: Chikmaguluru 

June 14, 2025: Horanadu, Sringeri. Stay in Sringeri.

June 15, 2025: Dharmasthala

June 16, 2025: Kukke Subramanya, Nagarhole. Stay in Nagarhole.

June 17, 2025: Nagarhole safari. Drive to Mysuru. Stay in Mysuru.

June 18, 2025: Mysuru to Chennai

Wed, June 25: 3 ppl fly to Hyderabad

Fri, July 4: Night train from Chennai to Hyderabad 

Sat, July 5: Ramanujar 108 DivyaDesam visit

Sun, July 6, Mon July 7: Function

Tue, July 8: 2 ppl Fly to Chennai

Thu, July 17: 3 ppl fly to Chennai

Fri, July 18: Night train to Bengaluru

Sun, July 20: Night train to Chennai

Thu, July 24: Morning flight back

Thu, July 24: Arrive back


Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Las Vegas 2 day trip

Day 1: The Heart of the Strip
Morning:

Mandalay Bay:

Shark Reef Aquarium: Start your day exploring marine life and exotic animals.
Grab breakfast at House of Blues or the food court.
Luxor:

Visit Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and/or Bodies... The Exhibition for educational intrigue.
Take fun family photos outside by the Sphinx.
consider a quick visit to The Casino at Luxor to let the kids enjoy the atmosphere.
Midday:
3. Excalibur:

Stop by the Fun Dungeon Arcade for some gaming.
Have lunch at Buca di Beppo or Dick's Last Resort for a quirky family dining experience.
Grab a quick lunch at the food court or enjoy a casual meal at Tournament of Kings (if time permits).

New York-New York:
Ride the Big Apple Coaster for thrills.
Explore Hershey’s Chocolate World for treats and souvenirs.
Explore Coney Island Emporium for classic arcade games and amusements.
Afternoon:
5. The Bellagio:

Stroll through the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens to see the seasonal display.
Visit the Fountain Show, with shows every 30 minutes (better view after dark, but daytime shows are still stunning).

Paris Las Vegas
Finish the night with a visit to Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Strip and watch the Bellagio fountains from above.
Grab dessert at La Crêperie for a sweet treat.

Evening:
6. The Venetian:

Take a Gondola Ride (indoor preferred for kids).
Explore The Grand Canal Shoppes with street performers and a family-friendly vibe.
Dinner at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes or Canaletto.
Mirage:
Catch the Volcano Show (eruptions start at 7 PM).
Optional: Visit the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat if not done earlier.
Day 2: More Entertainment on the Strip
Morning:

The LINQ Promenade:

Ride the High Roller Observation Wheel for panoramic city views.
Stop at Fly LINQ Zipline for an adrenaline rush (height/weight restrictions apply).
Flamingo:

Visit the Wildlife Habitat to see flamingos, koi fish, and more.
Quick snack or coffee at Carlos’ Bake Shop nearby.

Caesars Palace

Visit the Forum Shops to explore the luxury stores and the stunning architecture. Check out the Festival Fountain Show with its animatronic Roman statues.
Grab lunch at The Cheesecake Factory or Bacchanal Buffet, a highly-rated buffet with options for all tastes.

Midday:
3. Planet Hollywood – Miracle Mile Shops:

Browse the shops and stop for a fun lunch at Rainforest Café.
Enjoy the Indoor Rainstorm Show (free, every hour).
Afternoon:
4. Treasure Island (TI):

Watch the Sirens of TI Show (check current schedules as this may vary).

The Fashion Show Mall

Spend some time shopping or just enjoying the Dior and Chanel displays. There are also kid-friendly stores and entertainment options for a break.

The Wynn:
View the Lake of Dreams (waterfall and light show).
Walk around the luxurious setting, which feels like stepping into a lush escape.
Evening:
6. AREA15:

End your trip with immersive entertainment:
Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart for a mind-bending experience.
Explore the indoor attractions, free exhibits, and dining at The Beast by Todd English.
Additional Options for Flexibility:
M&M’s World & Coca-Cola Store: Fun, interactive stops for sweet treats and memorabilia near New York-New York.
The STRAT: For thrill-seeking older kids, the observation deck or extreme rides (e.g., Big Shot, Insanity) are unforgettable.
GameWorks or Arcade at MGM Grand: A great option for indoor family fun.

The Neon Museum

Take a fun and educational trip to see iconic neon signs and get a glimpse of Las Vegas history. The museum has a kid-friendly vibe with guided tours available.
The Cosmopolitan
Check out the Cosmo’s Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub area for its vibrant energy (even during the day!).
Visit the rooftop pool area if time allows or enjoy lunch at one of the cool eateries like The Henry.


 Fremont Street Experience

Head to Downtown Vegas for the evening light show under the Viva Vision Canopy.

Saturday, December 07, 2024

Photographer friend's list of touristy places

Places sorted by order of preference by photographer friend:
  1. Iceland
  2. New Zealand
  3. Banff
  4. Norway
  5. SouthWest USA
  6. Alaska
  7. Everest Base Camp
  8. Kilimanjaro, at the summit. 
  9. Beach places
    1. Hawaii (Big Island, Maui)
    2. Costa Rica
    3. Cancun
    4. Belize
  10. Touristy places
    1. Angkor Wat
    2. Machu Pichu

Saturday, November 16, 2024

Snow chain tire sizes for vehicles

2013 Toyota Sienna LE

235/60 R17

17’’ wheels
X-Large size snow socks



2024 Tesla Model 3

235/45R18

18" Front/Rear 18 x 8.5J 38
18" König CG-9 102
Hankook Kingergy GT tires by default
Large size snow socks



2002 Toyota Camry XLE
215/60R16
Large size snow socks


Existing chains:
chains fits sae class s vehicles

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Winter 2024 bus tours from Bay Area

1. Grand Canyon, Teton, Yellowstone, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley from Los Angeles.

https://www.taketours.com/las-vegas-nv/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yellowstone-arches-grand-teton-and-jackson-hole-winter-tour-from-los-angeles-las-vegas-5-star-hotel-in-vegas--886-19795.html


2. Antelope, Teton, Yellowstone, Mt.Rushmore from LA:

https://www.goldenbustours.com/13-day-los-angeles-to-san-francisco-pebble-beach-crazy-horse-antelope-canyon-salt-lake-city-17-mile-drive-grand-teton-yellowstone-national-park-rocky-mountain-las-vegas-night-tour.html


3. Yosemite, Yellowstone, Teton, Mt.Rushmore, Antelope.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/11-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-mount-rushmore-st-george-grand-teton-national-park-las-vegas-with-helicopter-night-tour.html#=It-day-9


4. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Los Angeles (theme parks) 10 days. Ends in LA.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/10-day-san-francisco-yosemite-national-park-las-vegas-and-los-angeles-semi-self-guided-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-286-19745.html


5. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 9 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yosemite-and-theme-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-586-19547.html


6. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks or Joshua tree), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. 9 days.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/9-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-flyover-las-vegas-kings-canyon-national-park-east-rim-grand-canyon-lake-powell-tour.html#=overview


7. Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Monument Valley, Capitol Reef, Las Vegas, Canyonlands, Arches

https://www.goldenbustours.com/8-day-san-francisco-to-zion-np-grand-canyon-np-bryce-canyon-np-monument-valley-lower-antelope-canyon-wilson-arch-las-vegas-tour.html


8. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 8 days.



9. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 7 days.



10. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Sedona, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Valley of Fire. Ends in LV. 7 days.



11. Northern California, Oregon, Washington


12. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon. Ends in LA. 6 days.



13. Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon. 6 days.


Overall trips:

Wednesday, October 09, 2024

Winter 2024 Road trip from Bay Area

1. Yosemite, Grand Canyon, LV, LA

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite

Sun, Dec 22: LA

Mon, Dec 23: LA

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: Drive to Grand Canyon

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon

Sat, Dec 28: LV

Sun, Dec 29: Back


2. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, LV

1. Day 1 Drive to Death Valley NP; Stay (night 1) (6.5 hrs drive)

2. Night 1: Stay at DV Park

3. Day 2 look around DV and 2 hour drive to LV; stay (night 2) (2 Hour drive)

4. Night 2 Check in at LV

5. Day3 Las Vegas stay (night 3) (local drives if any)

6. Night 3 Stay at LV 

7. Day 4 : Drive to Page (night 4) (4.5 hr drive)

8. Night 4: Stay at Page, Az.

9. Day 5 : GC (night 5) (local drives)

10. Night 5: Stay at Page, Az.

11. Day 6 : Drive to Kingman via Flagstaff, all view points on the way (night 6) (4.5 hr drive)

12. Night 6: Kingman, Az (for sleep break)

13. Day 7 : Drive back home (9 hours)


3. Yosemite, LA, Grand Canyon, Death Valley, LV

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite, back to Merced

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve & possibly Castle Mountains en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: LV

Fri, Dec 27: Hoover Dam. Drive to Grand Canyon. Stay near depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff or Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Grand Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Drive to LA

Mon, Dec 30: LA

Tue, Dec 31: LA

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home


4. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, warmer South Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend.

Sat, Dec 28: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sun, Dec 29: Sedona, Red Rock state park, Slide Rock state park, Tonto natural bridge state park

Mon, Dec 30: Lost Dutchman state park,  Picaho Peak state park, Saguaro national park

Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back

Wed, Jan 1: Joshua Tree national park, Drive back home


5. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Sat, Dec 28: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Grand Staircase Escalante, White Pocket, Coral Pink Sand dunes, Spooky Slot canyon, Peekaboo Red Canyon Slot (technically challenging)

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home


6a. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Las Vegas

Sun, Dec 22: Las Vegas. 

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Wed, Dec 25: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Natural Bridges, Canyonlands

Fri, Dec 27: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home


6b. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Natural Bridges, Canyonlands 

Thu, Dec 26: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Fri, Dec 27: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV.

Mon, Dec 30: LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home


7. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip)

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges 

Thu, Dec 26: Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point

Fri, Dec 27: Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Capitol Reef

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Wed, Jan 1: Great Basin

Thu, Jan 2: Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3: Las Vegas

Sat, Jan 4: Death Valley

Sun, Jan 5: Back home


8. Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. 

Tue, Dec 24: Bryce Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Kodachrome Basin

Thu, Dec 26: Cedar Breaks

Fri, Dec 27: Zion

Sat, Dec 28: Great Basin 

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas 

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Death Valley

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Joshua tree

Sat, Jan 4: LA or Big Sur

Sun, Jan 5: Back home


9. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion.

Wed, Jan 1

Great Basin.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Las Vegas.

Sat, Jan 4

Back Home


10. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Bryce Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Cedar Breaks

Sat, Dec 28: Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Great Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home


11. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home


12. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Death Valley

Wed, Jan 1: Channel Islands

Thu, Jan 2: Big Sur, back home


13. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, aggressive

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion. Drive to Vegas.

Wed, Jan 1

Las Vegas.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Back Home


14. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, southern Utah, relaxed

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home



15. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive dear Death Valley

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Wed, Dec 25: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Thu, Dec 26: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Fri, Dec 27: Kodachrome Basin

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home


16. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Sat, Dec 28: Kodachrome Basin, Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home


17. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sat, Dec 28: Sedona

Sun, Dec 29: Saguaro national park

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home


Sun, Dec 29: 

Mon, Dec 30: Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back




18. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur. Stay in Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route in California City.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Stay. 

Wed, Dec 25: Death Valley. If we are near North Death Valley, stay night in Las Vegas, else stay in same place as earlier. Apply for Wave daily lottery 3 days prior.

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Drive to Bryce City.

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce.

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks or Kodachrome. Stay near Bryce.

Tue, Dec 31: Drive to Zion. Drive to Las Vegas in the night.

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home



19. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur. Stay in Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route, close to Death Valley's entrance.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in the night.

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas. Stay in Las Vegas. Apply for Wave lottery permit.

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Drive to Bryce City.

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce.

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks or Kodachrome. Stay near Bryce.

Tue, Dec 31: Great Basin. Stay near Great Basin.

Wed, Jan 1: Drive to Reno. Stay

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home



20. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route in Ridgecrest.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in the night. Stay.

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas.

Thu, Dec 26: Las Vegas.

Fri, Dec 27: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon.

Sat, Dec 28: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sun, Dec 29: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Stay in Page.

Mon, Dec 30: Glen Canyon or Rainbow bridge. Drive to Bryce. Stay near Bryce. 

Tue, Dec 31: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce. 

Wed, Jan 1: Start driving home. Stay en-route.

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home. Reach night.



https://www.mapquest.com/routeplanner/from/us/ca/san-jose/95120-4417/6147-franciscan-way-37.22497,-121.89458/to/us/nevada/great-basin-national-park-470557700/to/us/utah/bryce-canyon-national-park-434959111/to/us/utah/zion-national-park-534171230/to/us/az/page-282022570/to/us/arizona/grand-canyon-national-park-south-entrance-449537648/to/us/nevada/hoover-dam-470561178/to/us/nv/las-vegas-492976340/to/us/california/death-valley-national-park-467625300/to/us/ca/big-sur-282916536/to/us/utah/cedar-breaks-national-monument-351694322


Detours near Las Vegas:

Valley of Fire state park, Red Rock Canyon state park, Tule Springs fossil beds, Kershaw-Ryan state park-Canyon Overlook Loop, Caliente ghost town, Cathedral Gorge State Park with Moon Caves-Cathedral Caves-Miller Point Trail

Detours near Page:

Buckskin gulch slot canyon (prefer AWD), White Pocket (4WD needed). Consider 4WD tours such as Coral Cliff tours, Alstrom Point (needs AWD near the end).

Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell.