Yosemite National Park is known for its deep valleys and dramatic granite domes. Here are some of the top 5 viewpoints to admire the park’s natural beauty. These viewpoints offer views of Yosemite, starting from down near Yosemite Valley to up high on Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road.
Tioga Road is California's highest highway pass and reaches an elevation of over 9,000 feet above sea level! The drive is beautiful with broad vistas of deep valleys and forests, but there are also many twisty turns, so be careful and pay close attention when driving!
1. Tunnel View
[Wheelchair Accessible]
Tunnel View is a popular lookout point offering views of El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. This viewpoint is visible from the parking lot and there is no hiking required.
2. Washburn Point
[Wheelchair Accessible]
This sight offers incredible views of Yosemite from a more southerly perspective compared to that of Glacier Point (next section). From here, you'll see Half Dome edge-on and Silhouette Falls. This viewpoint is also visible from the parking lot and requires no hiking.
3. Glacier Point
[Wheelchair Accessible]
Caution: winding mountain roads.
A short 10-minute walk on paved concrete from parking lot will bring you to a spectacular viewpoint. This is a great spot to watch sunset, offering spectacular views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.
Note that Glacier Point Road is usually closed from November to late May, so please check if it is open before embarking on your journey.
4. Olmstead Point
[Wheelchair Accessible]
Caution: winding mountain roads and high altitude.
Olmstead Point is an overlook with views of Cloud's Rest and Half Dome. The overlook is by the parking lot and the view is breathtaking!
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