GRAND CANYON: It is not part of the state of California, it is located in Arizona, but it is right on the border and is a must when you are visiting L.A or its surroundings.
It is a unique place. Its geological formation and its river created a landscape full of rocky labyrinths in sensational red tones. Hiking and just explore allows you to descend to the lowest area.
You can access from the South or North side. It is generally accessed from the south because it offers better views and walks. The best-known route at this end is the Bright Angel, it is the shortest and with views just as spectacular as the other routes. If you have time, we also recommend going to the North side to see different views of the same place.
There are no places to stay inside since it is a very protected area. The closest place for this is Tusayan, but the hotel offer is very limited. Another option is the towns along Interstate 40.
YOSEMITE: In the Sierra Nevada, one of the best-known National Parks in California. It's halfway between L.A and San Francisco. It has lakes, waterfalls and impressive mountains such as El Gran Capitán.
We recommend you go at least 3 days to be able to explore it completely. Best to see: The The Butterflies Habitat, where you can see the great Sequoias and drive across to Tioga Pass. This allows you to cross the park from end to end above its peaks, a fully equipped place to do different activities and you will find accommodation in hotels or tents in the middle of the park.
There are tons of places to stay in and around Yosemite. The 4 most recommended towns are: Mammoth Lakes, Oakhurst, Mariposa and El Portal.
SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST: Sequoia is a type of tree, it is named for the number and types that can be found. When entering, it is always good to go through the visitor center to have an overview of the place, take recommendations, etc. If you want, you can count on guides (called rangers) who, for some extra tip, can join you to explore it better.
Must see: Castle Rock, Sequoia General Sherman, Giant Forest, Foothills, Lodgepole Village, Mineral King, Crystal Cave.
DEATH VALLEY: About 200km from L.A. It is on the way between Yosemite and the Colorado Canyon. It is a desert, one of the most arid areas of the planet. Its name comes from the fact that in 1849, a carriage of Mexican immigrants that was traveling here was lost for several weeks and went through many ordeals to try to survive, half of which died. When they were able to leave the desert, one of the survivors said goodbye to the place, naming it "The Death Valley".
Local landscapes: Stovepipe Wells dunes, Rainbow Mountains on Artists Drive, and Golden Canyon. Dantes Point, one of the most impressive places that offers a panoramic view of Death Valley. The visitor center is found in Furnance Creek.
There are no accommodations inside the park because the weather conditions are extreme. You have to look for other places around the area.
JOSHUA TREE / YUCCA VALLEY: Joshua Tree is an incredible desert to go spend the day. If you want you can camp inside, there are several places available. When you enter ask for a map in the visitor center because it is really very big.
Off the reservation, the neighborhoods are pretty country/western. We recommend Yucca Valley. Check out in advance because sometimes there are fairs, yard sales (with very cheap vintage cool clothes), festivals, vintage car events...
There is a bar called WILLIE BOYS SALOON. It is a very local bar, where everyone is dressed in country style. Many go with Texan boots and live dance with a teacher, you can join! A fun and unforgettable experience.
If you are a country lover, you cannot miss: STAGECOACH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL, in Indio, California. On the same venue as Coachella. It is usually the following weekend.
OTHER USEFUL GUIDES