3 Day Tour to Oregon Redwood Crater Lake from San Francisco

Exploring the Oregon Redwood and Crater Lake from San Francisco: A Detailed Review

Taking a 3-day tour from San Francisco that covers Oregon’s awe-inspiring redwoods, Crater Lake, and California landmarks sounds like a dream—until you start planning it. This particular package, offered by Jupiter Legend Corporation, promises a smooth ride through some of the West Coast’s most iconic scenery, with all transportation, hotel stays, and major sights included. It’s a package aimed at those craving a taste of wilderness, mountain views, and even a splash of wine country, all wrapped into a manageable itinerary.

One of the things we really like about this tour is how it handles the logistics for you—no need to worry about driving or booking hotels. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully selected, including stops at Burney Falls, Shasta Dam, Crater Lake, and the Redwood National Park. The highlight for many seems to be the chance to see Crater Lake’s stunning blue waters and the tallest trees on Earth in the redwoods.

A potential snag? The schedule can be quite packed, with early starts and a lot of driving. Some travelers, especially those hoping for a leisurely pace, might find it a bit rushed, but most agree the scenery and experiences more than make up for the tight timetable. This tour suits travelers who appreciate structured sightseeing, want to cover significant ground without the hassle of planning, and love seeing nature—all in just three days.

Key Points

• All-in-one Convenience: Transportation, accommodations, and major sightseeing spots are included, making multi-day travel simple.
• Diverse Scenery: From waterfalls to mountains, lakes, and ancient redwoods, this tour offers a broad natural spectrum.
• Expert Guides: Several reviews praise guides like Jason and Lei for their knowledge and attentiveness.
• Taste of Wine Country: The final day’s winery visit provides a relaxing finish with tastings in Napa Valley.
• Limited Free Time: Expect early mornings and long days, so pack comfortable shoes and plan for a busy schedule.
• Weather Considerations: Scenic stops like Crater Lake might be replaced if closed due to weather, so flexibility is key.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: From San Francisco to Northern California Landmarks

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup options at San Francisco, Oakland, or Millbrae. The first stops will immediately set the tone: the Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay and Shasta Dam.

The Sundial Bridge is more than just a crossing; it’s an architectural marvel and a piece of art. Its towering steel and glass structure doubles as a giant sundial—if you’re there between 11 am and 3 pm, you might catch its shadow tracing the dial’s arc. The bridge’s design is visually striking, creating perfect photo opportunities and a sense of human ingenuity.

Next, it’s on to Shasta Dam, one of California’s most impressive engineering feats. Standing at 602 feet, it’s the largest dam in California and a marvel of concrete construction. The views of Lake Shasta, with its extensive shoreline, surrounded by evergreen hills and Mount Shasta looming in the background, are spectacular. Expect about an hour here, enough to take photos and appreciate the scale of this man-made wonder.

This first day sets the tone with a blend of natural beauty and impressive infrastructure, giving travelers a taste of California’s diverse landscape.

Day 2: Crater Lake and Redwood National Park

The highlight of this day is a visit to Crater Lake National Park—the deepest lake in the U.S., formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama around 7,700 years ago. The lake’s vivid blue waters are an incredible sight, especially if the weather is clear. You’ll have around two hours to wander and take in the scenery, which includes viewpoints that are perfect for photos and a chance to understand the volcanic history that created this natural masterpiece.

If Crater Lake is closed due to weather or other factors, the tour’s route is flexible enough to replace it with Sea Lion Cave and Thor’s Well, which still promise a rugged, coastal experience.

Afterward, the road takes us along U.S. Route 101, famous for its scenic beauty, leading us to the Redwood National and State Parks. The visit to the Visitor Center is brief but informative, offering insights into the park’s ecology and history. Then, we stop at the Redwood Drive-Thru Tree Park, home to the iconic Chandelier Tree—a 2,400-year-old redwood with a tunnel carved through its trunk, a classic California photo op.

Traveling through the towering redwoods, some about a thousand years old, is an awe-inspiring experience. Reviewers consistently mention the “magic” of walking among trees that have witnessed centuries of growth. The serenity and scale make it a must-see for nature lovers.

Day 3: Redwoods, Wine, and Return

The final day combines more redwood exploration with a relaxed visit to Founders Grove, where trees about a thousand years old stretch skyward, creating a calming, almost spiritual atmosphere. The Shenmu Trail offers a peaceful walk among giants, and many praise the guide’s knowledge about the trees’ history and ecology.

Following this, the tour visits the Redwood Drive-Thru Tree Park again for those iconic shots—this time with cars squeezing through the trunks.

Finally, the trip culminates in Napa Valley for a wine tasting at the Sutter Home Chateau. The tasting experience includes five different wines—ranging from white Zinfandel to Pinot Grigio and Moscato—allowing guests to sample some of California’s most famous wines. Reviewers note that this part of the tour adds a gentle, leisurely finish to the busy 3-day trip.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour operates on a full-sized bus with a professional driver and guide, which many reviews find reassuring given the long drives. The group size of up to 55 ensures a lively yet manageable atmosphere.

Starting early at 6:30 am, the schedule is packed but efficient. Most travelers note that the pacing is tight—expect early mornings, but the trade-off is seeing a lot in a short period.

Hotels are included for one night, with the second night typically in Klamath Falls, Oregon. The accommodation is generally comfortable and suitable for resting after full days of exploration.

Meal arrangements aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to grab meals at stops or nearby towns. The tour recommends comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash for incidental purchases like souvenirs or extra snacks.

Pricing & Value

At $607 per person, this tour offers a pretty comprehensive package considering transportation, accommodations, and entry fees to major sights like Crater Lake and Redwood National Park. Many reviewers feel the price is justified given the convenience and the range of sights covered, especially since booking all these attractions independently would require significant planning and cost.

The inclusion of a guided experience adds value, as knowledgeable guides like Jason are praised for their attentiveness and insights, enriching the visit beyond just sightseeing.

Authentic Experiences & Real Reviews

One reviewer mentioned how their guide, Lei Song, made the trip memorable with his knowledge and friendly attitude. Others appreciated the spectacular scenery, with several noting the redwoods and Crater Lake as highlights. Many found the wine tasting at Napa a relaxing end to a busy trip, though some pointed out that the tour was quite packed, with limited free time at each stop.

A few reviews mention the language aspect—some tours may be bilingual (Chinese and English)—which might influence the experience for non-Chinese speakers. However, guides try to accommodate everyone, and the stunning sights speak for themselves.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 3-day adventure is perfect for nature lovers eager to see some of America’s most iconic outdoor landscapes without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and early mornings, you’ll appreciate the efficiency of visiting multiple highlights in a short time. It’s also great for those interested in combining scenic landscapes with a touch of wine tasting—adding a little luxury after days of hiking and sightseeing.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried experience or want ample free time at each location, this might feel a bit too packed. It’s also ideal for travelers who value guided commentary—guides like Jason and Lei keep the group informed and engaged, making the journey more meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation by bus, hotel accommodations (one night), entrance fees to Crater Lake, Redwood National Park Visitor Center, and Shasta Dam, as well as guided tours at these sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or dine at stops along the way.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 3 days, with early starts and long days, ending back in San Francisco.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than that may incur fees or no refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers over 18 can participate. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women under 24 weeks can join, but safety should be considered.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash for extras, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

What if weather causes closures?
If Crater Lake is closed, the itinerary will be adjusted to include alternative coastal stops like Sea Lion Cave and Thor’s Well.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Pacific Northwest’s most striking sights. It’s best suited for travelers eager for a guided, organized trip that maximizes scenery and cultural highlights without the stress of planning. Expect early mornings, scenic drives, and awe-inspiring views, all wrapped in a package that balances comfort, adventure, and a touch of indulgence.