Northern California
Northern California Road Trips: Redwoods, Coast and Shasta
Northern California road trips through the redwoods, Mendocino and Humboldt, Mt. Shasta and Lassen, and wine country, with seasons, drive times and tips.
By Alex Khachigian · Updated September 2026 · 2 min read
Northern California covers the redwoods on US-101, the Mendocino coast on Highway 1, and Mt. Shasta and Lassen Peak in the far north.
This hub gathers every Northern California guide on the site.
In This Guide
Redwood Coast Road Trip: Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte
Highway 1 passes Point Arena and Mendocino, then joins US-101 at Leggett for the Avenue of the Giants and Redwood National and State Parks. See the Northern California coast road trip.
Mendocino is about 3.5 hours from San Francisco. See the Mendocino weekend guide.
Shasta, Lassen and Burney Falls
The Shasta-Cascade driving route loops from Redding to 129-foot Burney Falls, Mt. Shasta’s alpine lakes and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
- Lassen’s main highway usually opens fully in June or July
- Late summer and early fall are best for high hikes
- Check NPS.gov and Caltrans for road and wildfire closures
The Lost Coast, Trinity Alps and Backcountry
Shelter Cove is reached on a steep, winding road; Black Sands Beach works as a day trip.
The backpacking route needs a permit, bear canister and tide planning; see the Lost Coast Trail guide. The Trinity Alps and Marble Mountains have granite peaks and lakes with few people.
Wine Country, San Francisco and Marin
Napa and Sonoma are about an hour from San Francisco. The California wine country guide compares the regions.
Muir Woods, the Marin Headlands and Point Reyes are within about 90 minutes of San Francisco. Muir Woods requires a parking or shuttle reservation.
Best Time for a Northern California Road Trip
Late spring through fall is best; September and October are often clearest on the coast. Winter brings full waterfalls and storms that can close coastal roads.
Wildfires can affect air quality and roads from late summer into fall. Keep a backup route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Northern California road trip?
The coast through Mendocino and Humboldt to the redwoods. For fewer crowds, the Shasta-Cascade loop through Burney Falls, Mt. Shasta and Lassen.
How many days do you need for the Northern California coast?
5 to 7 days from San Francisco to Redwood National and State Parks.
How long is the drive from San Francisco to Redwood National Park?
About 5.5 to 6 hours on US-101. Highway 1 via Mendocino adds several hours; split it over two days.
When is the best time to see the redwoods?
Year-round. Late spring to fall has drier trails; winter has fewer visitors.
Do you need a reservation for Muir Woods?
Yes, a parking reservation or shuttle ticket, booked online via nps.gov.
Destination guide
My Humboldt County hotel, Airbnb and tour picks
