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Glacier Point
Yosemite's widest view — Half Dome, the Falls, and the valley floor at once
About
Glacier Point puts you 3,200 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley, at 7,214 feet elevation, with one of the widest views in the park: Half Dome rising directly across the valley, Yosemite Falls in the distance, Vernal and Nevada Falls threading through the canyon below, and the high country stretching toward Clouds Rest. It's the view most people picture when they think of Yosemite, and unlike Half Dome or the valley-floor overlooks, you can drive right up to it.
Getting There
Glacier Point Road runs 16 miles from its junction with Wawona Road (Highway 41), a drive of roughly 30 to 40 minutes each way. From the parking area, a paved, wheelchair-accessible path of about 300 yards switchbacks up to the main overlook, passing restrooms, a snack bar, and a gift shop. The road is seasonal — it closes with the first heavy snow in late fall and doesn't reopen until the snowpack clears, which can run into early summer depending on the year, so check current NPS road conditions before planning a trip outside peak season.
Hiking to Glacier Point
If you'd rather earn the view, the Four Mile Trail climbs from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point in 4.8 miles one way (9.6 miles round trip) with about 3,200 feet of elevation gain — a strenuous but well-graded climb through forest and open granite switchbacks. Many hikers pair it with the Panorama Trail, which continues 8.5 miles from Glacier Point down to Happy Isles, passing Illilouette Fall and more views of Vernal and Nevada Falls along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive to Glacier Point?
Yes. Glacier Point Road runs 16 miles from its junction with Wawona Road (Highway 41) to a parking area, then a paved, wheelchair-accessible path of about 300 yards leads up to the overlook. The drive takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes each way.
Is Glacier Point Road open year-round?
No. It's a seasonal road that closes with the first significant snowfall in late fall and reopens once crews clear the snowpack, which can happen anywhere from mid-spring to early summer depending on conditions. Check current NPS road status before visiting outside summer.
Can you hike to Glacier Point instead of driving?
Yes, via the Four Mile Trail, which climbs 4.8 miles one way from Yosemite Valley with about 3,200 feet of elevation gain. It's a strenuous but well-maintained trail, and many hikers combine it with the Panorama Trail for a longer loop back to Happy Isles.
What can you see from Glacier Point?
Half Dome dominates the view directly across the valley, with Yosemite Falls visible in the distance, Vernal and Nevada Falls below, and the high country toward Clouds Rest stretching out behind.
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