Hike to Taft Point
Details
Distance
2.2 miles
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Joel Bear
Taft Point offers one of the most majestic views of Yosemite Valley. If you can time it right, make it out there in time for sunset.
Taft Point is such an amazing and different view of the Yosemite Valley. If you're lucky and you time it right, you'll also experience complete solitude.
While driving Glacier Point Road, just a few minutes before arriving at Glacier Point, you'll see a parking lot for the Taft Point Trailhead. The hike is an intermediate level hike for a little over a mile one way. The hike itself is amazing, showing the diversity of Yosemite with features like ferns, forest, and incredible boulders.
Taft Point is best experienced at sunset, overlooking the beauty of El Capitan. Be sure to start the hike an hour before sunset to experience the sun rays. Remember to bring a flashlight or headlamp just in case you stay a little after dark.
Once the sun sets you'll experience a symphony of stars. Honestly such a gem in Yosemite.
If you're heading there in early spring or late fall, call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1 again) for current road info.
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Reviews
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Must see
I hiked the loop from glacier point. And the views all along the way were incredible. Taft point is a must see no matter which trailhead you get there from. I sat and had lunch there and just enjoyed the view.
5.0
One of The Best Places I Have Ever Been To
Got to the trailhead with 30 minutes left of sun. We sprinted the trail to get to Taft Point right when the sun was setting and it was honestly the best sunset I have seen in my life. Short cool hike where you can avoid the crowds. So cool!
5.0
The solitude at sunrise is the best!
We arrived early and hiked out just before sunrise. There was no one around until after the sunlight had flooded the valley floor below. Easily one of our favorite hikes in Yosemite!
5.0
Such an incredible place....
There are few places in Yosemite more beloved by the Instagram community, and a visit here will show you why. Endless incredible sunsets can be found here and it doesn't really get old. Just be sure to visit other gems of Yosemite too!
5.0
Photographed By So Many For A Reason
You just have to go. The pictures do it a good justice but still. When you're up there looking at the valley, it really puts the magic of Yosemite into perspective. The hike is easy, doesn't take long nor is there a challenging elevation gain. Chances are there will be multiple people setting up for sunset photos or time lapses. There is a hike near by that I don't recall the name of but we did a quick 4 miles before returning for sunset.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
