North Dome, Yosemite National Park

Definitely worth the 4.5 mile hike from Porcupine Creek trailhead on Tioga Road. I've been camping and hiking in Yosemite for 35 years, and North Dome offers the best views of Half Dome in the park. We backpacked and stayed out near North Dome for 2 nights. The domes are quite exposed, so it can get windy at times. But because there are so few trees, it is a perfect stargazing location, with the Milky Way passing right over Half Dome and Glacier Point. And be sure to stop by Indian Rock (it's really an arch!) on the way!

It's a long hike, nearly 9 miles, but relatively little elevation change compared to a lot of other mountain trails. Get there early to ensure a parking spot along Tioga Road. The trailhead is clearly marked at the beginning and it's an easy hike through the forest. The trail is not as clearly marked when you approach North Dome, but you can see where you need to go to reach the end point. Your effort will be rewarded with stunning views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. It doesn't get any better in Yosemite. Don't forget to take plenty of food, water, and sunscreen. We forgot the latter and I paid the price.