Yosemite Point

Yosemite Point sits on the north rim of Yosemite Valley, reached by continuing past the top of Upper Yosemite Fall on the Yosemite Falls Trail. The payoff for the extra distance is a wide-open view of Half Dome, Lost Arrow Spire, and the Valley floor thousands of feet below, with a fraction of the foot traffic you'll find at Glacier Point.

Getting There

The trail starts near Camp 4 in Yosemite Valley and climbs a long series of switchbacks before reaching the spur for Yosemite Point, just past the top of Upper Yosemite Fall. Round trip runs about 8.7 miles with roughly 3,720 feet of elevation gain, and most hikers plan on 6.5 to 7.5 hours. It's one of the more strenuous day hikes in the Valley, with steady climbing and little shade for long stretches.

What You'll See

From the point, you get a rare vantage on Half Dome, the Lost Arrow Spire, and Yosemite's high country, arguably one of the best payoff views in the Valley for the mileage, from a spot most Valley visitors never reach. The overlook sits above sheer granite drop-offs, so keep a firm grip on kids and stay well back from the unguarded edges.

Before You Go

• Start early; the climb gets hot and exposed once the sun is up
• Carry plenty of water, since there's no reliable source on the way up
• Trekking poles help on the steep, rocky switchbacks