Take a short and easy hike to Olmsted Point and absorb the awe-inspiring views of Tenaya Canyon and Tenaya Lake enveloped by granite domes. The parking itself offers striking views of the surrounding hillsides dotted with glacial erratic boulders. If you are lucky enough to run into a ranger, ask to borrow a telescope to take a close view of the adventurous souls scaling Half Dome and Clouds Rest below. Note that the nearest restrooms are at the lake, more than 2 km (1.5 mi) to the east. See Olmsted Point and all Yosemite National Park has to offer by arranging your trip with our Yosemite National Park route planning app.
Olmsted Point reviews
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This is definitely worth a stop when traveling along Tioga Road. The view is wonderful and with binoculars you can see the climbers on Half Dome when the cables are up.
This is definitely worth a stop when traveling along Tioga Road. The view is wonderful and with binoculars you can see the climbers on Half Dome when the cables are up. more »
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At dusk, it was hard to make out much of the panorama, but I still got to see these magnificent rock formations. This area is on Tioga Road. It got very chilly at night.
At dusk, it was hard to make out much of the panorama, but I still got to see these magnificent rock formations. This area is on Tioga Road. It got very chilly at night. more »
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Absolutely worth the stop. Was hot down low, COLD here! Like the kids didn't get out of the car cold. Super windy. Not too busy but always some folks around. Good views. A little climb but not hard, maybe a 2 outta 10 to get to top and check out best view. Would stop by again if out there.
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If you are doing Tioga pass, this is the ONE place you must not miss. The views down the valley are spectacular. Early morning you get the sun on Half Dome, but its in the afternoon, about 4pm when the sun is right down the valley, you get the best pictures. If you have a good magnification on your camera, you can even see the wires going up the side of Half Dome. Definitely not to be missed.
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