3 Day Tour to Oregon Redwood Crater Lake from San Francisco

If you’re dreaming of a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco to experience some of the most breathtaking natural sights in the West, this 3-day tour might just be what you’re looking for. It offers a convenient way to see iconic landmarks like Crater Lake, Redwood National Park, and Shasta Dam without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the all-inclusive nature and the chance to relax and soak in stunning scenery make it a compelling choice for those craving a nature-focused adventure.

What really draws us in are the guided stops at iconic spots like the Sundial Bridge, the impressive Shasta Dam, and the majestic redwoods—and the promise of fresh, crisp air along the coast and in the forests. Plus, ending with a wine tasting in Napa Valley adds a touch of luxury and local flavor that rounds out the trip nicely. One thing to consider, however, is that the itinerary involves long days on the bus, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some extended travel time. This tour is perfect for those who want to see a lot in a short period and don’t mind a group setting.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Bus, hotel, and tours included make logistics easier.
• Stunning scenery: From Crater Lake’s deep blue waters to towering redwoods, nature is the star.
• Guided stops: Expert commentary enriches each location.
• Long days, scenic views: Be prepared for extensive travel, but it’s part of the adventure.
• Value for the price: At $607, it’s a decent deal considering the included stops and accommodations.
• Accessible for most: Suitable for most travelers, but check for specific needs like transportation or mobility concerns.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Tour Experience

Booking and Cost: Is it Worth It?

At $607 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of California and Oregon’s natural highlights. For that price, you get transportation, hotel accommodation for two nights, and entry to key parks and landmarks. When you consider the cost of booking each component separately—hotels, park entries, guided transport—it’s a fair deal, especially for the convenience. Plus, booking around 79 days in advance suggests it’s popular among travelers who want to lock in their plans early.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: California Landmarks and Big Dams

Your journey kicks off early, with pickup options in San Francisco, Oakland, or Millbrae, starting at 6:30 am. The first stops are the Sundial Bridge and Shasta Dam—two very different, but equally impressive, engineering marvels.

• Sundial Bridge: This pedestrian bridge doubles as a giant sundial, and its glass and steel design makes it a picture-perfect spot. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and snap some photos. The fact that it’s a working sundial that only casts a shadow for four hours a day adds a quirky touch.
• Shasta Dam: Standing 602 feet high, this concrete giant is often compared to Hoover Dam in scale. It creates Lake Shasta, a vast reservoir framed by snow-capped Mount Shasta. The experience here is both awe-inspiring and educational, giving you a sense of California’s engineering prowess.

Expect to spend about 90 minutes to 2 hours on these stops. The group size can be up to 55 travelers, but during reviews, people mention that guides and drivers like Jason or Antony make the longer days more manageable.

Day 2: The Heart of Nature – Crater Lake and Redwood Parks

Day two is arguably the highlight, with visits to Crater Lake National Park and Redwood National Park.

• Crater Lake: The deepest lake in the US, formed from the collapse of Mount Mazama, is a vivid, stunning blue. The views are dramatic, with the lake’s 6-mile diameter and nearly 2,000-foot depth creating a powerful visual. As one reviewer said, “Crater Lake view is the best,” and we believe most travelers will agree. The tour allows about 2 hours here, enough to take photos and soak in the scenery.
• Redwood National Park: Known for the tallest trees on earth, it is also home to prairies, oak woodlands, and rugged coastlines. A quick visit to the Redwood Visitor Center and scenic drives through these giants give you a taste of the incredible biodiversity and the tranquility of ancient forests.

A key note is that if Crater Lake is closed (which can happen due to weather or maintenance), the itinerary replaces this with Sea Lion Cave and Thor’s Well, so flexibility is built in. Reviewers praised the guide Lei Song for her knowledge and friendly demeanor, which really enhances the experience.

Day 3: Redwoods and Napa Valley

The final day offers more forest exploration and a relaxing wine tasting in Napa Valley.

• Founders Grove: A walk through this ancient redwood grove feels like stepping into a cathedral. Trees here are around a thousand years old, and the peaceful trail makes for a memorable stroll.
• Drive-Thru Tree: The famous Chandelier Tree, carved into a redwood with a tunnel for cars, is an Instagram classic. It’s a quick stop—about 30 minutes—but one that leaves a lasting impression.
• Napa Valley Wine Tasting: The trip culminates with a visit to Sutter Home Chateau, where you can sample five different wines, including White Zinfandel, Pinot Grigio, and Zinfandel ports. It’s a lovely way to unwind after the busy days and indulge in California’s renowned wine culture.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The package covers your hotel stay (though one night is less than the total days), transportation, entrance fees to Crater Lake, Redwood, and Shasta Dam, and the guided tours. It doesn’t include meals, gratuities, or personal expenses, so plan accordingly.

The Real Traveler Experience

Based on reviews, guides like Jason and Lei are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. One traveler shared how Jason was “full of knowledge and very confident,” which adds confidence when navigating unfamiliar spots. Others appreciated the stops at scenic spots like Mount Shasta and the redwoods, calling the scenery “spectacular” or “incredible.”

A downside noted by some is the language barrier—one review mentioned the tour being primarily in Mandarin, which was unexpected for some English-speaking travelers. If you’re expecting an English-only experience, double-check with the operator.

The Long Days and Group Dynamics

With a start time of 6:30 am and multiple stops across two states, expect long days—up to 12 hours of travel and sightseeing. While this might sound tiring, many reviews mention that the scenery makes it worthwhile. The group size of up to 55 travelers can mean a bustling bus atmosphere, but guides do their best to keep things organized and engaging.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for walking and outdoor exploration.
• Bring sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must.
• Pack cash or cards for souvenirs or snacks, especially during stops at scenic parks and the winery.
• Be prepared for potential weather changes—layers are always a good idea.
• Confirm your pickup location and be on time to avoid missing out.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works well for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that covers some of the most iconic sights in California and Oregon without the hassle of planning. If you’re okay with long bus rides and want to see nature’s masterpieces—from ancient redwoods to stunning volcanic lakes—it’s a solid pick. Those who appreciate good guides and enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxation will likely find this trip rewarding.

However, if you prefer more flexibility or dislike long travel days, you might find the schedule a bit packed. It’s also worth noting if language is a concern, as some parts of the tour may be conducted in Mandarin, although guides do their best to accommodate.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 3-day tour offers a well-rounded peek into Pacific Northwest beauty—perfect for travelers eager to tick off major sights in a short time. The inclusion of landmarks like Crater Lake, the towering redwoods, and Napa’s wine country makes it a diverse experience that balances awe-inspiring scenery with some leisure. Guides seem to make a real difference, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

While the trip is a bit intensive and weather-dependent, the fact that it’s all organized makes it ideal for those who want to avoid the stress of logistics. If you’re ready for long days filled with incredible views and memorable moments, this tour could be just the adventure you need.

FAQ – Everything You Might Wonder About This Tour

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves some walking in parks and on trails, it’s best to check directly with the provider if you have mobility concerns. The stops are generally accessible, but long walks or uneven terrain may be involved.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the package, so you should plan to bring snacks and cash for food or purchase at stops along the way.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 55 travelers, so expect a fairly large group. Guides do their best to keep everyone engaged.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but the operator reserves the right to make adjustments due to weather or other conditions. If a stop like Crater Lake is closed, an alternative will be provided.

How early do I need to arrive at the pickup point?
The tour starts at 6:30 am, so arriving a little earlier ensures you’re ready and on time.

Is hotel accommodation included?
Yes, hotel stays are included for two nights, but note that one night’s stay is shorter than the total tour days.

Are children allowed on this tour?
You might find the tour suitable for most travelers, but check specific age recommendations or restrictions, especially considering the long days and outdoor activities.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely—group tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers, and the guided experience makes it easier to socialize.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a guided, reasonably priced way to see some of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning sights without the stress of planning, this 3-day tour offers a balanced mix of nature, engineering marvels, and wine tasting. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy long days of sightseeing and are comfortable in group settings. With knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery, this trip can truly be memorable.