North Dome

North Dome sits on Yosemite Valley's north rim and delivers something the valley floor never can: a level, eye-to-eye view straight across Tenaya Canyon at the sheer face of Half Dome. The standard route starts at the Porcupine Creek Trailhead off Tioga Road and runs 10.4 miles round-trip, with most of the climbing saved for the way back — plan on roughly 580 feet of elevation gain on the return. Budget five to seven hours.

What the Trail Looks Like

A paved path leads out from the trailhead through mixed-conifer forest, crossing Porcupine Creek before dropping into a small meadow and following a ridge toward the dome. The final stretch descends steep rock steps to North Dome's base, then climbs its smooth granite summit for the payoff: Half Dome's sheer northwest face, Tenaya Canyon, Clouds Rest, and Yosemite Valley laid out below.

Indian Rock Side Trip

On the return leg, a 0.3-mile spur branches off to Indian Rock, the only natural granite arch reached by trail in the park — a worthwhile detour if you've still got daylight.

When to Go

The Porcupine Creek Trailhead is only reachable when Tioga Road is open, typically late May through October or November depending on snowpack, so check current conditions before you plan the trip. No permit is required for a day hike; an overnight backcountry stay in the area does need a wilderness permit.