Glacier Point

For the best view of Yosemite National Park, including Half Dome and a variety of waterfalls, travel to Glacier Point. This scenic, rocky lookout is located above Curry Village in the southern portion of Yosemite Valley. Access to Glacier Point is usually achieved via Glacier Point Road, but beware the road is closed in wintry conditions, usually between November and late May or early June. There are hiking and skiing options to the lookout as well, but be sure to check the conditions at the park before attempting.

A scenic drive on Glacier Point Road is a highlight of any Yosemite vacation. Click here for the complete itinerary.

Top Ten Things to do in Yosemite Park

1. Yosemite Valley Waterfalls

When snow melt from mountain peaks brings icy waters rushing downstream into Yosemite Valley, great waterfalls spring to life. During the peak seasonal flow, which usually happens in May, the thundering of waterfalls can be heard clear across the valley. Read More...

2. Famous Viewpoints

The natural beauty of Yosemite is so incredible that it inspired an entire 19th-century conservation movement, which resulted in the valley’s protection as a national park in 1890. Read More...

3. Walk Among Giant Sequoias

Start by taking the whole family on a joyful nature walk through the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias. Read More...

4. Black Bears & Wildlife

With more than 400 kinds of animals and multiple life zones for plant life, Yosemite is a top spot for wildlife watching. Read More...

5. Explore Trails

Whether you want to get out of the car and do a little exploring, or you’re planning a backcountry adventure on foot or horseback, we’ve got just the thing for you and your family. Read More...

6. Go Camping on Your Yosemite Vacation

Nothing beats sleeping under the stars in Yosemite National Park, especially if you’re looking for a little family togetherness Read More...

7. Go Rock Climbing in Yosemite

Stalwarts like the giant wall of El Capitan, the polished promontory of Half Dome, and skyscraping Glacier Point all call to expert climbers, who sometimes bivouac overnight while suspended in mid-air. Read More...

8. Unforgettable Winter

Yosemite is covered in powdery blankets of snow, and the valley becomes a winter wonderland. Read More...

9. Explore History & Culture

Yosemite is the wild, wild West. From its earliest Native American inhabitants, to the mid-19th-century California Gold Rush, and the later arrival of ranchers, loggers, and hoteliers, the land surrounding Yosemite National Park is amazingly rich in historical sites. Read More...

10. Festivals & Ranger-Led Activities

Come to watch waterfalls in spring, go hiking in the Sierra Nevada high country in summer, roast marshmallows over your campfire in fall, and go skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Timing your visit to coincide with one of the region’s many festivals will only enhance your Yosemite vacation. Read More...