Glacier Point

Start at the Glacier Point parking area and enjoy a leisurely stroll to the Glacier Point railing, where you look down on Yosemite Valley (3,200 below!) and east toward Half Dome and the High Sierra. Glacier Point itself is an incredible overlook of the Yosemite Valley. The most impressive views are of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls which makes the long drive from the Visitor Center worth it. This popular overlook is only reachable in the summer months unless you cross-country ski, but plan on it being very busy with personal vehicles and tour buses. When we got to the overlook there were buses unloading hundreds of visitors and thankfully there are multiple restrooms for all these people! You can drive to this overlook but this road is closed in winter! The spring opening date is different every year depending on snowfall that year but they try their best to have it open by memorial day. Some years it's just not possible. Adjust your travel plans as needed. The drive up to Glacier Point is roughly 45 minutes from the valley and offers some nice views along the way. Just before reaching the Glacier Point parking lot there is another stop called Washburn Point. This spot gives better views of Nevada and Vernal waterfalls and you can also see the top of Illilouette Falls that is arguably my favorite in the park. All three are over 300 feet with Nevada being twice that. You can get different angles of Yosemite Valley and of Half Dome at many points along the way. Glacier Point is the most impressive spot as you look down nearly 3,200 ft to the valley floor! Just be careful. If you are lucky enough to visit in spring when the Falls are high you get some really incredible views! Yosemite Falls is 2,425 feet tall making it the tallest in North America! The views of Half Dome are incredible and seeing Nevada and Vernal Falls were really amazing as well! Half Dome is one of those features that pictures do absolutely no justice! This is a must-do for Yosemite!