There are very few places in this world that have left me lost for words. Usually I visit somewhere and there’s a sense of familiarity; that I’ve seen somewhere similar before, perhaps with my own eyes but maybe in a book or on a TV travel show.
Every now and then however I’ll go somewhere, stop and simply stand in complete awe and silence over the landscape in front of me. One such experience was at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park recently where the view took my breath away.
What is Glacier Point?
Glacier Point is a viewpoint within Yosemite National Park that offers views across the Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite’s high country.
How to get to Glacier Point?
Glacier Point is located in Yosemite National Park and is accessible by heading along Glacier Point Road.
During the winter months a lot of the roads are closed in Yosemite due to snow so you’ll need to decide what will be the best time of year to visit. From May to November the roads to Glacier Point tend to be open however outside of these times you’ll either need to venture out on foot or put on some skis and cross country ski your way there – around 10.5 miles each way. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weather conditions.
Parking and facilities at Glacier Point
As you arrive at Glacier Point there is large car park to cater for the popularity of the site. There are toilets and information boards here too to let you know all about the view you are about to experience.
From the car park the viewing area is a short 2-3 minute walk along a paved, wheelchair friendly path.
Glacier Point viewpoint
Once you arrive at the viewpoint, 3214 feet above Half Dome Village, there are numerous overlooks allowing you to view the National Park from different angles. There are barriers everywhere here too unlike some of the other areas in the park such as Taft Point so Glacier Point is a perfectly safe spot to bring children.
The star attraction at Glacier Point and in fact across most of this end of the National Park is the beautifully imposing Half Dome which dominates the landscape. Be sure to bring your camera and if possible a wide angle lens as you won’t want to forget this memory.
Glacier Point review
Having visited numerous overlooks around Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point for me was by far the most impressive. The height of the viewpoint, the beauty of the landscape and the sheer scale of what is in front of you leaves you standing in awe.
If you are heading to Yosemite National Park this year you must make sure that Glacier Point is tight at the top of your itinerary, you won’t be disappointed!
Are you planning a trip to Yosemite National Park this year? We’d love to hear your plans, let us know in the comments!
