we will be arriving in LA from Australia in September and are planning on driving to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Lake Tahoe and Yosemite on to San Francisco and then back to LA. we have 13 nights and are not quite sure about accommodation wether it is better to book before we leave or to drive and sight see until we come accross a motel.

My personel preference is to have everything booked. i also know many people who do it on the fly. I would definitely book yosemite and the grand
canyon as far in advance as possible. write if you want more specific info

We have driven a similar route as you are planning a couple of times. We made use of the American Automobile Assoc. similar to the R.A.C. in Australia they have mapped out which route was the best to suit our needs. The only time we booked accommodation was for our first night in the US after that we never booked ahead and always found good, accommodation. Motel 6 chain is a good one to keep a look out for. You just have to not leave it too late in the day to book in. When visiting the Grand Canyon stay at Flagstaff or other townships nearby it is much cheaper. The only place I can't help you with is Yosemite as we always seem to be geting too late in the year to get there. Perhaps next time. Have fun, we always do and are looking forward to our next trip. Regards Peg

I live close to Yosemite and I would recommend a reservation in Sept. The weather will be warm, sometimes really warm.Yosemite in Sept. will be beautiful and full of tourists from all aver the world. It is a very special place. Your family will remember it for always. IIf you need help with where to stay ,let me know.

September is probably one of the best times to travel in the US. The weather is warmish to hot in the deserts, and cool in the mountains. Yosemite will generally be warm, because it is really in the foothill elevation at the valley floor (4300 feet or so). The rim drive is around 6,500 feet. I would recommend calling ahead a day or so in advance to reserve a motel. Camping in Yosemite park itself would require a reservation in September, probably, especially on the valley floor. Elsewhere, a day in advance would probably be enough. The AAA guide book is pretty good, as would guide books like Fodor's or others. Have fun. I have done similar trips many times in September, and have had a lot of fun.