9 Best Viewpoints in Yosemite National Park
Where to Take the Best Photos of Yosemite?
Are you about to visit Yosemite National Park? If so, keep reading to discover the 9 best viewpoints that it has to offer.
Nestled between Sierra National Forest and Stanislaus National Forest in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park is a nature buff’s paradise. Brimming with natural wonders that range from granite rocks to waterfalls, cliffs, glaciers, and mountains, this Californian national park offers breathtaking sights for travelers looking to snap Insta-worthy pics or simply take in the view.
1. Tunnel View
Take in the scenic view
Good for: Photo, Budget
This historic viewpoint has been around for hundreds of years and doesn’t disappoint. Located on California State Route 41, just outside the Wawona Tunnel from the South Entrance, Tunnel View promises sweeping views of Yosemite National Park’s greenery, granite monoliths, and majestic mountains, no matter the season.
Equipped with a convenient car park, it caters to all visitors looking to take in scenic views, which include the ever-popular El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Tunnel View will surely leave you speechless.
Location: Yosemite National Park, Wawona Rd, California 95389, USA
Tunnel View
2. El Capitan Meadow
Climb new heights
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Situated on Northside Drive, near the west end, and rising over 3,000 feet above floor level, El Capitan Meadow isn’t for the faint of heart.
A favorite among rock climbing buffs and curious travelers, its imposing rock structure also boasts sweet views. Besides climbing or driving, experienced hikers can also opt for a walking trail that will lead them to the top – be sure to plan 8–12 hours of walking. Once you’ve made it to the top, jaw-dropping views await.
Location: Southside Dr, California 95389, USA
El Capitan Meadow
See also
3. Yosemite Valley View
Scenic charm at your fingertips
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Yosemite Valley View is arguably one of the most scenic views that Yosemite National Park offers. Overlooking the water, and equipped with a nearby parking area, it’s a great location for a picnic among family or friends, or to relax and absorb the panorama. It’s also a romantic setting to catch an epic sunset.
Some of the other sights you’ll be able to spot here include the twin Cathedral Rocks and Spires, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River.
Location: Northside Dr, Wawona, CA 95389, USA
Yosemite Valley View
4. Sentinel Meadow
Where greenery prevails
Good for: Couples, Families, Budget
If you’re looking for a viewpoint that features a calm, flat hike, Sentinel Meadow is the perfect spot for you.
This easygoing trail takes you through its green meadows until you reach stunning views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. Runners and walking aficionados love the 40-minute trail, especially from April to October. Spring is a crowd favorite, thanks to wildflowers that bloom galore. It’s also kid-friendly, making it a great option for a day out with the little ones.
Location: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA
5. Columbia Rock
Hike your way up to coveted views
Good for: Photo, Adventure
A viewpoint that is most popular among hikers and trail enthusiasts alike, Columbia Rock offers sweeping, 180-degree views over Yosemite Valley and Half Dome. The short and steep hike boasts over 3 dozen switchbacks before walkers reach the top, which is worth the effort.
Be sure to set aside enough time to complete this 2- to 3-hour round-trip hike. Also, sunset is the best time to end this moderate trail, as the views of the valley are sure to impress.
Location: Yosemite Falls Trail, Yosemite Village, CA 95389, USA
Columbia Rock
6. Olmsted Point
A picture-perfect vista point
Good for: Photo, Budget
Looking down on Yosemite Valley, Tenaya Canyon, Tenaya Lake, Half Dome, and Clouds Rest, Olmsted Point’s features include granite slopes, glacial erratics, and tree groves. Once you reach the top, marvel at views that promise to impress.
This natural wonder enjoys an easy hike lasting about 15 to 30 minutes, making it ideal for beginners, leisurely walkers, and weekend dwellers looking to relax. A parking lot (which also serves great views) is also available if you’re looking to travel by car.
Location: Parking lot, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA
Olmsted Point
7. Cathedral Beach
Pack a picnic and relax
Good for: Couples, Families, Budget
This natural haven offers a treat for all of the senses. Dotted with tree groves, picnic tables, and grills, Cathedral Beach is the picture-perfect spot for a family picnic, a barbecue among friends, or simply unwinding and taking in the view after a day of exploring the national park.
The scenic viewpoint is set along the Merced River (don’t forget your swimsuit!) and enjoys a lookout point that provides vistas over El Capitan, as well as mountains and granite cliffs.
8. Glacier Point
Impressive panoramic views await
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Serving up commanding views of Yosemite National Park’s best sights, Glacier Point is where you can catch glorious glimpses of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and Clouds Rest.
Composed of glacially deposited rocks, Glacier Point is accessible from Glacier Point Road or the Four Mile Trail during warmer months and from Badger Pass Ski Area (via cross-country skiing or snowshoeing) during winter. Glacier Point Road is slated to reopen in 2023 after closing in 2022 for construction work.
Glacier Point
9. Taft Point
Reach for the sky!
Good for: Photo, Adventure
It’s time to reach new heights! Made up of giant fissures within its granite rock, Taft Point’s elevation spans 7,500 feet.
Points of interest visible from here include Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan. Located 5 minutes away from the end of Glacier Point Road, get ready for a fairly moderate and elevated 1- to 2-hour hike. If you’re not afraid of heights, be sure to walk to the cliff’s edge and peer straight down for even more thrills.
Taft Point
10. Sentinel Bridge
Where history and natural views collide
Good for: Photo, Budget
Positioned where the former Yosemite Village once was, Sentinel Bridge is where you can admire gorgeous views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and the Merced River’s sparkling reflection over the viewpoint’s arch bridge.
Sentinel Bridge’s pedestrian path is easy to get to on foot or by shuttle bus and can be accessed via Sentinel Drive, just east of Yosemite Valley. Don’t forget your camera – especially if you plan to stay for the sunset, which is a feast for the eyes.
Location: Sentinel Bridge, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA
Sentinel Bridge
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