Glacier Point

As one of the most spectacular (and easily accessible) scenic overlooks in Yosemite, Glacier Point almost always features on guided tours of the park. Single- and multi-day tours depart from California cities including San Francisco and Los Angeles regularly and combine this Yosemite lookout with other nearby attractions. Many tours also offer visitors the option to hike down 4-Mile Trail from the overlook to Southside Drive—a much easier alternative than the ambitious hike up.

• Glacier Point is a must-see for photographers and first-time visitors to Yosemite.

• Don’t forget your camera—views from the top are stunning.

• Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to hike up or down 4-Mile Trail.

• Glacier Point is accessible to wheelchair users via a paved path from the nearby parking area.

While it’s possible to hike to Glacier Point from the Yosemite Valley floor, it involves a strenuous 3,200-foot (975-meter) ascent. It’s much easier to drive or take a bus from the Yosemite Valley Lodge (formerly the Yosemite Lodge). During winter, a 10.5-mile (17-kilometer) cross-country skiing trail leads to the overlook.

Glacier Point is open throughout the year, although it’s only accessible by road or trail from late May through October or November. During the rest of the year, you have to ski to get there.

With no city lights for miles, Yosemite National Park enjoys dark skies perfect for astronomical observation. During the summer months (June to August), amateur astronomers gather at the Glacier Point Amphitheater on Saturday nights for star parties. Bring along a star chart and join in the stargazing fun.

Glacier Point is famous mainly for its views. Check out some of Yosemite’s best-known landmarks from Glacier Point, including Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Nevada Fall, Clouds Rest, and more. Plan your trip in the summertime since icy conditions can make the area inaccessible.

Head to Yosemite via the Wawona Road, which is the continuation of Highway 41 in the park, and keep going for around 13 miles (21 kilometers) to the Chinquapin intersection. Cross-country skiers can ski there in winter, but it’s about 10.5 miles (17 kilometers) one way, so be prepared.

Head to Glacier Point between July and mid-September for the best weather windows. Hiking, fishing, and just relaxing are most comfortable during these times. Try to make it for sunrise or sunset since the light over Half Dome and the Yosemite Valley is particularly photogenic at these times.

No, Glacier Point is one of the most leisurely hikes in Yosemite. It’s also wheelchair accessible, making it available for visitors who use them. It’s about a half-mile (804-meter) loop trail that only takes 10–12 minutes to complete. It’s a popular area, so expect to see some fellow tourists.

Yes, you can hike from Glacier Point to Half Dome, but note that this is challenging. It takes over 12 hours to complete the nearly 21-mile (34-kilometer) hike, so bring enough water and nutrition. The route is gorgeous, however, so experienced hikers should keep this in mind.

Yes, Glacier Point is worth it. Hike to spots with fantastic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the Sierra Nevada mountains, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Sunset and sunrise are particularly good times to visit this natural beauty.