Glacier Point

View from Glacier Point

Quick Facts

Amenities

2 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Scenic View/Photo Spot

This world-renowned overlook gives visitors a grand view of Yosemite Valley from above and a captivating vista of the park's southeastern high peaks.

Glacier Point, an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, is located 30 miles (a one-hour drive) from either Yosemite Valley or Wawona. The road stays open as weather permits. When snow covers the road and conditions permit, a system of cross-country ski tracks is maintained on it. At Glacier Point, a short, paved, wheelchair-accessible trail takes you to a point 3,214 feet above Yosemite Valley's Curry Village, allowing views of Yosemite's high country.

In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt went on a three-day guided wilderness trip through Yosemite with John Muir that started at the Mariposa Grove, and included Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Valley. Muir seized this opportunity "to do some forest good in talking freely around the campfire," with the president. Buffalo Soldiers from the Ninth Cavalry Troop were there as presidential escorts, and were asked to clear the Four Mile Trail for the president's use, but Muir and Roosevelt had other plans and used that ploy to escape from their escorts! This story ended up as an article in the New York Times in 1903.

Hours

The Glacier Point Road is open to vehicles from approximately late May through October or November.

From mid-December through March, cross-country skiers can experience the view from Glacier Point after skiing 10.5 miles (one-way), conditions permitting.

Getting Here

From Yosemite Valley or Wawona, take the Wawona Road (continuation of Highway 41), then turn east onto Glacier Point Road.

Rules & Regulations

• Vehicles longer than 30 feet and vehicles pulling trailers are not allowed past Sentinel Dome parking lot.
• The Glacier Point Road closes after the first significant snowfall. Overnight parking is prohibited beginning October 15. For current road and weather information, please call 209/372-0200.

Hazards & Warnings

• Bears and other wildlife may be present on or near park roads, please drive with caution.
• Be aware of potential hazards on park roads, including wet and icy conditions or debris in the roadway, especially in the spring or fall.

Accessibility

The Glacier Point overlook is accessible via a 300-yard paved, switchback trail from the main parking lot. The restrooms, snack bar, and gift shop are all accessible. A bronze, tactile relief model is located on the terrace below the gift shop, and identifies geologic features. Designated accessible parking spaces are available.