Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: 7 Day Eastern Sierra Route

Hey! I’m Brittney!

I’m a California native who’s been exploring the best hikes, climbs, ski resorts, and campgrounds for the last decade, and I’m here to help you plan a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip like a California local.

Exhausted of the noise, bright lights, and city traffic? Save the chaos of Hollywood for another week. Spend your days adventuring in nature and spend your nights camping under the stars from the Pacific Ocean to the Mojave Desert in the shadow of the magnificent eastern Sierra Nevada mountain range as you make your way north from L.A. to Tahoe!

Although there are countless remarkable backpacking trails along this route, this travel guide is specifically for those on a time crunch who want to see it all, which means this guide is completely car-camping/van-life friendly! If you can spare a few extra days, I definitely invite you to add your own adventures and explore more deeply into the wilderness.

This guide is meant to be a stepping stone. No adventure is complete without a bit of spontaneity, but following this guide to a T will still offer you a fun, budget-friendly, and comprehensive route along the eastern Sierras from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe—as comprehensive as you can be in 7 days.

So let’s get driving!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, designed to allow The Unremarkable Climber (me) to earn a small commission if you choose to book through them, at no extra cost to you. This really helps support the site and lets me know you find this information valuable! That being said, all of the experiences I recommend, commission based or not, are genuine recommendations for some of my favorite activities, so I hope you enjoy them as much as I have! Feel free to drop any questions in the message box below.

Day 1 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Santa Monica to Ventura

Whether you’ve just rented a car at LAX or have already explored the lower third of the Golden State, get ready to start your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip off strong! It doesn’t take long to find some nature near the City of Angels!

A Morning in the Santa Monica Mountains

Breakfast in Santa Monica

But first, coffee. And breakfast if you’re hangry like me. Check out goodboybob Coffee Roasters in Santa Monica for a quick bite or Cici’s in Westlake Village if you’re looking for a full-on brunch with every flavor pancake you can imagine.

Hiking and Rock Climbing at Malibu Creek State Park

Located just 30 miles (about 45 minutes) northwest of LAX down Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) lies this hidden gem. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this oasis has had its fair share of screen time with popular hits like Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H. Striking rock formations, old movie sets, and a refreshing swimming hole make Malibu Creek State Park one of the best outdoor destinations in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Sport climb in the canyon on steep, juggy terrain, or take a refreshing dip in the rock pool in the heat of the summer. In the summer, remember the sunblock and start early because the trails are quite exposed and temperatures can soar above 90°F. In the winter, opt for a longer hike or short climbing session before lunch. Wintertime temperatures usually hover around 60°F.

Click here for more information and conditions.

An Afternoon in Malibu

Lunch at Iconic Neptune's Net

From Malibu Creek, either take the scenic route or the scenic route. Scenic route number one takes you west on the famous Mullholland Highway— known for its twists and turns through the hills— then south to PCH. Scenic route number two takes you south to PCH where you’ll follow the coast road west to your destination.

Upon arriving at Neptune’s Net, indulge in all the fried seafood and clam chowder you can afford at this iconic biker bar! Or, take your food to go, drive four miles northwest on PCH, and hike up the giant sand hill on your right for the best view in town!

What to Do in Malibu After Lunch

Beach Day at one of the many beaches nearby! Relax at County Line Beach just across the street from Neptune’s Net or (local tip) check out one of the other state beach parking lots that are off the main road to avoid crowds.
Surf at County Line or Leo Carrillo, or book surf lessons here!
Mountain Bike Tour with an ocean view.
Hike one of the many trails between Sycamore Canyon and Point Mugu.

An Evening in Ventura

Dinner in Ventura

Once you’ve gotten a taste of Malibu, the perfect end to the first day of your road trip is watching the sunset from Ventura Pier. Make sure to arrive at least an hour before sunset to get your food and seats in time!

The BEST setup is a local secret. Grab some mouthwatering tacos (or ahi burrito in my case) from the takeout window of Beach House Tacos. Take your order to go, and walk a few steps across the boardwalk to MadeWest Brewing, just up the stairs above Beach House Fish (much pricier than Beach House Tacos). Find a seat on the outdoor patio, and watch the sun set over the Pacific with a taco in one hand and craft beer in the other!

Where to Sleep: Camping at Emma Wood State Beach

Book a site at Emma Wood State Beach to wake up to an oceanfront view. Sites are essentially reserved parallel parking spots adjacent to the sand on the ocean side of PCH. This campground is perfect for quick car camping which is the only method of camping allowed here. If you only have a tent, try to book a site at Thornhill Broome Campground back in Malibu or Carpenteria State Beach only 20 minutes up the road from Ventura.

Extending Your Road Trip in Malibu or Ventura?

This stretch of coastline is incredible, and I’d definitely want more than a day to spend here. Here are a few things to do if you decide to lengthen your trip!

Take a photo from the Top of Topanga Lookout
Sign up for a Malibu Wine Tour
Hike or climb to the top of the 100ft cliff at Point Dume State Beach
Join a sea cave kayak tour at Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park
Look for spotted harbor seals and tide pools during low tide at Carpenteria State beach
Catch some waves at C Street, or learn to surf
Explore the historic town of Santa Barbara

To add a few extra days of Malibu-based rock climbing and camping to your plans check out Rock Climbing in Malibu, California: A 3 Day Travel Guide.

Day 2 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Ojai to Carrizo Plain National Monument

If you like wide open spaces, star gazing, and vast wildflower blooms, Carrizo Plain National Monument will be the perfect second day stop along your seven day journey. Even during the dry season, the calm, expansive nature of the plain is refreshing. Although it adds 2.5 hours of drive time, I much prefer the solitude of a night on the Carrizo Plain to sitting behind miles of semi trucks winding my way up the I-5 freeway. Plus, this way you can check out the town of Ojai and Los Padres National Forest along the way!

**Pro tip: Download the Carrizo Plain BLM map and any trail maps you want ahead of time and plan to stock up on groceries and gas in Ojai! Cell service is patchy at best and amenities are scarce once you leave Ojai.

A Morning in Ventura

Breakfast in Ventura

Grab a quick coffee and croissant at Prospect Coffee Roasters, or take a walk downtown and get some breakfast lasagna at Immigrant Son Caffe. If you wake up early with time to spare for a unique and homey ambiance (and some amazing maple bacon beignets), sit down on the patio of Cafe Nouveau. There are so many good breakfast joints to choose from in Ventura!

Driving Scenic Highway 33 through Ojai

After breakfast, head north on Highway 33. You’ll pass the quaint town of Ojai. While here, grab a few groceries for today’s lunch and dinner and tomorrows breakfast since you will be camping in a remote area overnight. Once you’ve picked up the essentials, continue into Los Padres National Forest. In the summer, consider taking a quick dip in a swimming hole near Wheeler Gorge Campground! Wind your way through the mountains up Highway 33 then descend into Cuyama Valley then into Carrizo Plain National Monument.

Afternoon on the Carrizo Plain

Slow your pace and explore the wide open space of Carrizo Plain National Monument. Crowds are generally nonexistent except during wildflower season.

If you plan to visit from March through May, you might catch a glimpse of a wildflower super-bloom!
Check out Soda Lake via its boardwalk trail, or from above from Overlook Hill Trail.
Take Wallace Creek Interpretive Trail where you will learn about the oldest section of the San Andreas fault.
Try to spot a rare San Joaquin kit fox during the cooler hours of the day

Click here for more information on the Carrizo Plain National Monument including current conditions.

Camping on the Carrizo Plain

Selby Campground

Take the Soda Lake Road entrance for this first-come first-serve semi-primitive campground. The road is dirt, but should be fine for most vehicles unless it’s been raining. There are pit toilets available but make sure to PACK IN PACK OUT everything else to help preserve this special place.

Dispersed Camping

If you’re really looking for solitude, dispersed car and tent camping is generally permitted in mountainous areas up off the valley floor. Keep current fire restrictions in mind and PLEASE manage your waste properly— both trash and….other. Practice leave no trace, including toilet paper. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come across a once nice campsite now ruined by human feces and toilet paper strewn about.

Day 3 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Carrizo Plain to Kernville

The third day of your road trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe will take you from the peaceful Carrizo Plain, through the bustling San Joaquin Valley, and onto the southern tip of the Sierra Nevada mountain range—the gateway to Sequoia National Forest.

Sunrise on the Carrizo Plain

Wake up to a sunrise over the plain, locate Kernville on the map, and head on your way to a new adventure. I’ve got to admit, today will not be the most exciting day of travel, but you’ll arrive at the perfect starting point for the second half of your journey north along the eastern Sierras. I’d recommend an early start so that you can still have a fair amount of time in the Kernville area.

A Quick Pitstop at Silver City Ghost Town

You’ll know you’re getting close to your destination when you arrive at the town of Lake Isabella. You’ll only have about a half hour to go before arriving in Kernville, but before you continue on, I’d recommend a quick pitstop at Silver City Ghost Town— a relic from the California gold rush days. Not only is this site home to historical buildings dating back over 100 years, but it might be home to the supernatural as well. The term “ghost town” might be more literal than you think!

Lunch at Kern River Brewing

After driving all morning, satisfy your hunger at the best (and only) local brewery in town! The food is fantastic— just what you need to relax and fuel up for a day exploring Sequoia National Forest.

Camping on the Kern River

Head north on Highway 99 for 20 minutes and snag a river side dispersed car camping spot at Calkins Flat Dispersed Area. This dispersed area offers trash and restroom services during the summer, and a more primitive experience in the winter. If this area proves too crowded (or too primitive), there are many other dispersed and established campgrounds along the river to explore!

Once you’ve found a site, take some time away from your vehicle and enjoy the rest of your evening relaxing by the river.

Day 4 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Sequoia National Forest to Alabama Hills

Day four begins your experience in the eastern Sierras. You’ll wake up on the Kern River in the foothills of Sequoia National Forest, make your way up in elevation and see some unbelievably large trees, and end your day in the shadow of Mount Whitney— the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

A Morning in Sequoia National Forest

Trail of 100 Giants: Summertime Option

Time to rise and shine early! You have a lot of ground to cover today. No California road trip is complete without visiting some of the most unique giants in the world— the giant sequoias. No matter how many times I stand at the base of these trees, I am awestruck by their grandeur and their ability to survive 1500 years of destruction. Photos cannot do their size justice. This is a MUST-SEE.

Today you will visit the Long Meadow Grove, home to one of the tightest consolidations of giant sequoias in existence. Take the Trail of 100 Giants to get up close and personal with these magnificent trees. This trail lies about an hour north of Kernville near the tiny mountain town of Ponderosa.

Unfortunately, this area tends to only open from May to November, so click here for current status and road conditions.

Hiking the Kern River: Year-Round Option

If the conditions aren’t ideal for driving higher in elevation, I’d recommend a morning hike up the Kern, beginning at Johnsondale Bridge. This is an ideal starting place for a longer fishing or backpacking trip, and is also perfect for a short hike up the river. The River Trail is open year-round and is fairly moderate in difficulty at its worst. This out-and-back trail will wind along the Kern River with river access at various points.

An Afternoon Drive to Lone Pine

After the morning’s activities, you will pass Kernville and Lake Isabella before heading north on the eastern side of the Sierras. Grab a quick snack in town if need be, then hit the road towards the small town of Lone Pine. On your 2-3 hour drive, you will pass remnants of the area’s volcanic past. Stretch your legs for a few minutes near Fossil Falls Trail if you have time, or continue on to Lone Pine.

Where to Eat in Lone Pine

Definitely grab a pizza from Pizza Factory, or some BBQ from Lone Pine Smokehouse before leaving the highway to find a dispersed campsite in the Alabama Hills, just off Whitney Portal Road.

Dispersed Camping in the Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills is a rock climber’s and van lifer’s paradise. With countless secluded spots throughout the bouldery hills, you’re sure to find a nook to hide away as the sun sets over Mount Whitney. Keep in mind there may or may not be restroom facilities nearby depending where you camp, so please leave no trace, including toilet paper. Once a pristine environment, post-pandemic it has seen an exponential growth in popularity as well as an exponential growth in trash left behind.

For the climbers out there, break out the headlamps and get in a few night climbs before heading to bed! For everyone else, enjoy the pristine star gazing— ideal for breathtaking night photography.

**NOTE: As of 2022, there are limited dispersed camping sites in and around Alabama Hills due to ongoing habitat restoration, so it might be advantageous to find a site and claim it before grabbing dinner in town. In the future, permits may be required. Check the site below for current requirements.

For more information on camping in and around the Alabama Hills, click here.

Extending Your L.A. to Tahoe Road Trip in Sequoia National Forest?

There are countless fun adventures to be had in Sequoia National Forest in the summertime for those wishing to stay a bit longer. Here are some of my favorites:

Whitewater Rafting on the Kern River: Kern River Outfitters offers half-day to multi-day trips of all difficulty levels!
Traditional climbing at Dome Rock for the experienced climber
Off-roading on Sherman Peak 4×4 Trail
Countless backpacking and fly fishing opportunities

Day 5 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Lone Pine to Bishop

The fifth day of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip will be spent in the shadow of the Sierras as you explore the expansive Mojave desert.

Morning Activities in Alabama Hills

Whether you plan to enjoy a crisp winter morning or wish to avoid the 100°F daytime summer temperatures, the glow of sunrise on Mount Whitney is incredible. There are two main activities that will help you get the most out of your time here at Alabama Hills: hiking and rock climbing.

Rock Climbing

Alabama Hills is a rock climbing destination with over 300 single pitch sport climbs to choose from and a handful of traditional climbs thrown in for good measure. Prepare for thin and slabby climbs with incredible views! For sport climbing (my specialty) the two crags I’d recommend are:

Tall Wall for the sheer height and best introduction to climbing in the area
The Shark’s Fin for the stunning photo potential with Mount Whitney in the background

Hiking

If rock climbing isn’t your jam, I’d recommend Mobius Arch Loop Trail to explore the rocky landscape without the need for climbing gear.

Lunch in Lone Pine

Once you’re ready to hit the road again, make sure to grab a bite in Lone Pine before continuing on your journey. If you have a little time to spare in town, check out the Museum of Western Film History— a little-known Lone Pine treasure.

Finding a Campsite near Bishop

After an hour or so of driving, you’ll arrive at a slightly larger town called Bishop. If you plan on eating in town, there are a ton of options, but I usually stop at Holy Smoke BBQ.

If I were you, I’d want to find a campsite before dark, so don’t spend too long in town. There are a lot of developed campgrounds in the area, most of which are first-come first-serve, and most of which are closed during the winter. I personally skip the amenities and find a dispersed site away from neighbors. There are so many options for dispersed camping, but not much information available.

There is dispersed camping allowed on public land off Buttermilk Road— a world-class bouldering destination, on Inyo National Forest land on both sides of Highway 395, as well as on the Volcanic Tableland. I’d highly recommend referencing an online interactive map for specific boundaries, but that should get you started. Wherever you find a site, please respect no camping signs as well as current fire restrictions and pack out all waste.

An Evening at the Hot Springs

After snagging a campsite, a popular local activity all year round is taking a dip in the nearby natural hot springs. Located near Mammoth Yosemite Airport, their exact locations can easily be found online, so the keyword here is popular.

These pools are about as natural as they come— heated by the underground geothermal energy prominent in the area. Many are about waist deep and plenty warm enough to keep you cozy in sub-zero air temperatures, but plan to cozy up shoulder-to-shoulder with some strangers. Oh, and clothing is definitely optional.

If making friends is your vibe, I definitely recommend checking them out. If not, try for sunrise, or go on a scouting expedition for a more obscure pool. Just be careful because some of these pools are hot. Explore at your own risk.

Day 6 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Mammoth Lakes

Day six will be a full-on active adventure day at Mammoth Mountain! Lifts are open almost all year with a ski resort in the winter and a downhill bike park during the summer. With plenty of rentals nearby, you are more than set for a day on the mountain.

Breakfast in Bishop at Schat's Bakery

Fuel up for a big day at elevation at the best bakery around! My family and I have been dropping in at Schat’s Bakery on every Mammoth Mountain road trip since I was a kid. Whether you’re looking for some sandwiches on their classic sheepherder bread or some cookies to go, they’ve got you covered. Just make sure you don’t stuff yourself too much because you still have an active day ahead of you!

A Day at Mammoth Mountain

The perfect activity for the day is dictated by the time of year. Opening and closing dates vary by year, so you can check here for your current options. Regardless which activity you choose, the views are awesome from 11,000 feet up!

Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort (winter)

This vast snow park connects three lodges (Main, Canyon, and Eagle) and countless runs of all skill levels. Skiing, snowboarding, gondolas, tubing, terrain parks, cross-country skiing, backcountry split-boarding, this mountain has it all!

I learned to ski at Mammoth when I was only three years old and have made yearly trips back since, so this resort holds a special place in my heart. I love it here because the views are incredible and it’s usually blue skies with an occasional powder day thrown in to make it exciting! One of my favorite perks now that I’m an adult is its proximity to other activities like year-round rock climbing near Bishop and local hot springs only minutes away.

The average season is November through May, though lifts have remained open all the way into August on heavy snow years!

Click here for more information on winter activities at Mammoth Mountain.

Tired of waiting in line to rent gear in musty rental shops? Try this rental delivery service! To be honest, I have my own gear, so I don’t need rentals anymore, but I’ve heard awesome reviews from friends who have used them! Click here for ski delivery, or click here for snowboard delivery!

Mammoth Bike Park (summer)

After the winter season ends, the Mammoth Mountain is quickly transformed into a huge bike park with over 80 miles of singletrack. There are plenty of lift-accessed trails from beginner to advanced, so you don’t even have to ride uphill if you so choose! The Gondola can transport you and your bike all the way up to the 11,000 foot Summit, where you can choose your own intermediate or advanced trail down.

The main downhill area at Main Lodge is linked with the Village (where all the shops and restaurants are) via beginner and intermediate trails as well as a bus system (included with the lift ticket). The typical season runs from May through September.

Personally, I can count on one hand the number of times I ride a bike each year so my endurance is nonexistent, but I can still find plenty of trails to ride downhill! There are also plenty of world-class jump runs and rock gardens for the more experienced rider.

Click here for more information on summer activities at Mammoth Mountain.

What to Do When the Mountain is Closed (shoulder season)

If you’ve decided to travel during the shoulder season between mountain bike season and snow season, Mammoth Lakes is still a worthwhile stop on your road trip. There will be smaller crowds and favorable temperatures. All activities are still weather and season dependent, but here are a few I’d recommend:

Hike to Devil’s Postpile
E-bike, hike, or snowshoe around the Lakes Basin
Complete Mammoth Mountain’s Via Ferrata
Rock climb at the countless nearby crags, or spend a half-day learning to climb with a knowledgeable guide in a private lesson!

Where to Eat in Mammoth Lakes

After a long exhausting day at high altitude, wind down at one of the many local eateries. I’d recommend heading to the Village. You can get there by driving, by way of gondola, or by way of mountain bike trail. I like to stop in at Mammoth Brewing Company, but there are countless tasty restaurants to match whatever you’re craving.

Where to Camp near Mammoth Lakes

The temperature outside will determine the best place to camp. During the summer, I’d stay at one of the first-come first-serve campgrounds in the Lakes Basin or dispersed camp along Mammoth Scenic Loop. During the winter, I’d definitely head back down to Bishop and take advantage of the warmer temperatures at a lower elevation.

Extending your Road Trip in the Mammoth Lakes Area?

There are so many things to do in this small pocket of the Eastern Sierras. The opportunities for exploration and adventure are essentially endless. In order to help you narrow it down, here are some of the things I like to do when I’m in the area for more than a few days.

Rock Climbing (year-round)

Traditional climb in Pine Creek Canyon
Sport climb at Owen’s River Gorge
Boulder at the Buttermilks

Backpacking (summer)

Anywhere in the John Muir Wilderness
Duck Lake Pass Trail
Minaret Lake

More Skiing/Snowboarding (winter)

June Lake

Visit A National Park

Drive Tioga Pass into Yosemite National Park (summer)
Explore Death Valley National Park: the hottest place on earth (winter)

Day 7 of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: Mammoth Lakes to Lake Tahoe

The final day of your seven day journey will take you on a three hour drive past Mono Lake and over the Nevada border before entering Lake Tahoe Basin in South Lake Tahoe—located on the California-Nevada border— where you might even have some time for a quick night hike or ride before the day is up.

Breakfast in Mammoth Lakes

After waking up, head to Mammoth Coffee Roasting, Co. for a quick bite and coffee, or The Stove for a bigger breakfast. Head out early if you’re looking to arrive in Tahoe with enough time for an afternoon ski or mountain bike session.

On the Road

A Quick Stop at Mono Lake

After breakfast, you’ll begin the last leg of your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip. On the way, there is a quick stop worth noting. Just past the town of Lee Vining lies a massive alkaline lake called Mono Lake. Take a quick look at the unique limestone tufas and maybe spot some migratory shorebirds feasting on the endemic Mono Lake brine shrimp before completing your drive to Tahoe.

Evening in Lake Tahoe

Evening Activities in Lake Tahoe

During snow season, gear up for an evening ski or ride at Boreal Mountain Resort. Boreal hosts 10 lifts that remain open until 9pm, you’re sure to feel like you’ve gotten a full day in, even though you arrived in the afternoon. Palisades Tahoe also offers night riding, and is located a bit closer to town.

During the summer, fit in an early afternoon mountain bike session at Northstar Bike Park, the best downhill mountain biking resort in Tahoe. Northstar has lift-accessed trails which range from from beginner to expert. Many other resorts offer bike parks as well, but don’t offer lifts during the summer season. If you arrive later in the day, find one of the many scenic bike paths that offer lake views. For more mountain biking ideas, click here.

For those short on time and energy, take quick hike up to Cave Rock and watch the sun set over lake Tahoe.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

There are countless hotels, casinos, homes for rent, and campgrounds located around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe. Where to stay will be dictated by which ski resorts you plan ride and which activities you plan to partake in while you’re there.

South Lake Tahoe is much busier and has more nightlife, so there are more accommodation options. There, you will have closer access to resorts like Heavenly and Sierra.

The north side of the lake is quieter and provides closer access to Diamond Peak, Northstar, Palisades, and Boreal.

More Activities in Lake Tahoe

After a long week of exploration, you’ve finally completed your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip. You can now sit back, relax, and decide what to do in Lake Tahoe. Here are some ideas to help you begin exploring the area.

Explore the Resorts

Ski, snowboard, and mountain bike your way through Lake Tahoe. There are 10+ resorts in and around lake Tahoe, depending how far you’re willing to venture. Some have lake views, others specialize in terrain parks, and some are less busy and more family-oriented.

I like Heavenly and Palisades for skiing and Northstar for mountain biking. Everyone I talk to has a different favorite mountain. Maybe you can do a circuit and let me know which one was your favorite!