Scenic Drive on Glacier Point Road in Yosemite

Enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and winter sports on Glacier Point Road, the gateway to Yosemite's scenic beauty.

Last updated: May 2024

Free to drive; possible fees for parking or winter sports equipment rental

Description

Glacier Point Road offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park. Starting from Yosemite Valley, this 16-mile scenic drive takes you to the Glacier Point overlook, providing panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the high country. The road is accessible from late May or early June until November, making it a seasonal adventure. Along the drive, you'll find trailheads for various hikes, such as McGurk Meadow Trail, Ostrander Lake, and Mono Meadow, each offering unique perspectives of the park's natural beauty. In winter, the road transforms into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, leading to the same spectacular views at Glacier Point. This drive is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and winter sports enthusiasts looking to explore Yosemite's diverse landscapes.

What's included

Access to scenic overlooks and hiking trails
Winter access for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
Parking areas at trailheads and Glacier Point

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Start: From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona Road south and turn left at the Chinquapin junction onto Glacier Point Road.
Stop 1: Badger Pass Ski Area (for winter activities)
Stop 2: McGurk Meadow Trailhead (for a 4 to 7-mile hike)
Stop 3: Mono Meadow (for a 3-mile roundtrip hike)
Stop 4: Sentinel Dome and Taft Point (for a 2.2-mile hike)
End: Glacier Point Overlook (enjoy panoramic views of Yosemite Valley)