View of Half Dome from Glacier Point
View of Half Dome from Glacier Point
Highlight • Viewpoint
View of Half Dome from Glacier Point
Hiking
5.0
(180)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Mountaineering
5.0
(2)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
June 29, 2019
Hiking
September 27, 2020
Hiking
October 4, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Half Dome from Glacier Point
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If you are looking for a challenging hike with incredible rewards, the Four Mile Trail delivers continuous panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. As you ascend, you will see iconic landmarks like Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome from ever-changing perspectives. This difficult route covers 5.2 miles (8.4 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 3323 feet (1013 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete. The experience is a demanding climb, but the vistas make every step worthwhile.
Planning your visit requires careful consideration, especially regarding seasonal conditions. The Four Mile Trail can become treacherous due to snow and ice, often leading to closures below Union Point or even the entire route during winter, usually from November or December through early to mid-May. Many hikers opt to complete this route one-way, either climbing from Yosemite Valley or descending from Glacier Point, often utilizing the park's tour bus service for convenient transportation. Check current conditions before you go.
This trail is notable for its unique perspective on Yosemite's grandeur, offering views that evolve with every turn. A side trip to Union Point, located about two-thirds of the way up, provides another spectacular overlook, showcasing the valley's vastness from a different altitude. The route's design allows you to experience the scale of Yosemite National Park in a profound way, making it a standout option for those who appreciate a strenuous but visually rich journey.
4.9
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963
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990m
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Embark on the Four Mile Trail, a difficult hike spanning 9.8 miles (15.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3256 feet (992 metres). This challenging route typically takes around 5 hours and 42 minutes to complete. As you ascend, the scenery constantly changes, moving from pleasant areas dotted with wildflowers to increasingly grand vistas. You will witness impressive views of Yosemite Falls as you climb higher. Reaching Union Point, about two-thirds of the way up, rewards you with expansive panoramas of Yosemite Valley, showcasing landmarks like El Capitan and the winding Merced River.
When planning your hike on this trail, be aware of seasonal conditions that can affect access and safety. The route is usually closed from December through May because of ice and snow, with higher elevations often remaining hazardous well into spring. It is crucial to carry all the water you will need for your entire journey, as there are no sources of potable water available along the way. Always check current park conditions before heading out.
This trail offers a unique perspective on Yosemite's iconic landscape, allowing you to experience the valley's grandeur from a different vantage point with every step. The continuous ascent provides a sustained workout, culminating in views that highlight the geological forces shaping this famous national park. It's a journey that connects you deeply with the natural environment, revealing the scale and beauty of Yosemite in a profound way.
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1,000
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26.5km
09:52
1,270m
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The Four Mile, Panorama, and Mist Trail Loop offers an unparalleled journey through Yosemite's most iconic landscapes, from the sweeping vistas of Glacier Point to the thundering cascades of Vernal and Nevada Falls. You'll traverse varied terrain, including continuous steep switchbacks on the Four Mile Trail and granite stairways on the Mist Trail, experiencing the valley from multiple perspectives. This difficult 16.5-mile (26.5 km) hike with 4164 feet (1269 metres) of elevation gain is a full-day commitment, typically taking around 9 hours and 51 minutes, ideal for experienced hikers seeking a comprehensive park tour.
To tackle this epic loop, an early start is essential, especially given its length and the need for shuttle transport between trailheads. The best time to visit is from late May to early July when the waterfalls are at their peak, though be prepared for slippery conditions and waterfall spray on the Mist Trail. Always check for seasonal closures and carry ample water for this strenuous endeavor.
What makes this route truly special is its ability to combine three major Yosemite trails into one epic journey, showcasing nearly every iconic landmark from El Capitan to Half Dome. You'll gain unique perspectives of the valley, from climbing out of it to descending alongside roaring waterfalls, offering a comprehensive experience that few other hikes can match.
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Elevation 2,190 m
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