Last updated: September 2, 2025
Place
Panorama and Pohono Trailheads
Quick Facts
Amenities
1 listed
Trailhead
Starting from Glacier Point, both trails offer stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley's iconic landmarks along the descent to the valley floor.
There is NO shuttle service available to transport hikers from Yosemite Valley or Tunnel View back to Glacier Point. If you hike down, plan to hike back up or arrange your own transportation.
Panorama Trail
This route to Yosemite Valley takes hikers past Illilouette, Nevada, and Vernal Falls. Some of Yosemite's most iconic natural features can be seen and experienced along this trail. Though this trail is mostly downhill, there a significant 800-foot climb after crossing Illilouette Creek before descending again. At the junction above Nevada Fall, hikers can take either the Mist Trail or the John Muir Trail to the valley floor.
Distance: 8.2 miles (13.2 km) one-way
Elevation change: 3,200 ft (975 m) net descent one-way
Time estimate: 6-8 hours
Pohono Trail
This trail rewards hikers with several viewpoints of Yosemite Valley from the south rim. East to west, these views include Roosevelt Point, Taft Point, Dewey Point, Crocker Point, and Stanford Point. While this trail is net downhill, expect several moderate and steep uphill sections along the way.
Distance: 12.5 miles (20 km) one-way
Elevation change: 2,800 ft (975 m) descent one-way
Time estimate: 8-10 hours
Tips & Seasonal Information
Pets and bicycles are not allowed on hiking trails. Illilouette, Nevada, and Vernal Falls run year-round, though flow decreases significantly by late summer.
There are several unbridged stream crossings along the Pohono Trail. Use caution in late spring and early summer when water levels can be high.
This trailhead is only reachable by car when Glacier Point Road is open, which is typically from approximately late May through October or November. Overnight parking is prohibited beginning October 15. For current road and weather information, call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1).