Taft Point
Iconic Yosemite viewpoint with dramatic granite fissures and sweeping valley vistas, perfect for sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Taft Point
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Yosemite viewpoint with dramatic granite fissures and sweeping valley vistas, perfect for sunset.
"Epic views and definitely a little extreme! Hike there was honestly pretty easy."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is easy, but good footwear is essential for navigating rocks and uneven terrain.
📸 Master Forced Perspective
Get creative with photos to make it look like you're on the edge (safely!).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fissures
Along the trail to Taft Point
Giant cracks in the granite offer a thrilling perspective and unique photo opportunities.
Panoramic Valley Views
Taft Point overlook
Unobstructed vistas of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.
Sunset Spectacle
Taft Point overlook
Witness the sky ablaze with color over the iconic Yosemite landscape.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Safety First at the Fissures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is easy, but good footwear is essential for navigating rocks and uneven terrain.
📸 Master Forced Perspective
Get creative with photos to make it look like you're on the edge (safely!).
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The hike is short, but staying hydrated is key, especially in warmer months.
🚗 Check Road Status
Glacier Point Road can close seasonally; check NPS for updates.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is easy, but good footwear is essential for navigating rocks and uneven terrain.
📸 Master Forced Perspective
Get creative with photos to make it look like you're on the edge (safely!).
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The hike is short, but staying hydrated is key, especially in warmer months.
🚗 Check Road Status
Glacier Point Road can close seasonally; check NPS for updates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Taft Point for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the unique geological fissures. The hike is widely regarded as easy and rewarding, making it a must-see for most Yosemite visitors. Some caution is advised due to the sheer drops and lack of railings.
"Great opportunity to get close to a sharp drop of deep cliff, and view of Yosemite valley from top. Amazing, must see while visiting Yosemite."
Lihua Bao
"A pretty short and easy hike with a big reward!
The trail is wide and clearly marked - a few spots where you have to step down rocks or cross a small creek, but overall very easy going. The trail itself has lots of shady spots as well, though you won't find much once you reach your destination.
The point itself is so picturesque! The photos make it look riskier than it is. There are also lots of options for forced perspective photos to make it appear you're "on the edge" while still being comfortably back from it.
Took our kids and they both had a great time. The braver of the two got to experience vertigo for the first time so best to keep a hand on them just in case.
There are so many things to see in Yosemite, but if I'm doing any hikes twice, this will be near the top of my list for another go!"
Victoria Edwards
"Epic views and definitely a little extreme! Hike there was honestly pretty easy. There’s only one spot with railings, so be careful unless you’re really in a hurry to get down. Parachutes not included."
Manthan Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taft Point is accessed via Glacier Point Road. The trailhead is about 2.2 miles round trip and is generally considered an easy hike. If Glacier Point Road is closed, the hike can be significantly longer, as noted by some visitors. +1
Yes, there is a parking area at the Taft Point trailhead. It can fill up quickly, especially during peak season and sunset times, so arriving early is recommended.
Yosemite National Park offers shuttle services, but direct public transport to the Taft Point trailhead is limited. It's best to check the Yosemite National Park website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
If Glacier Point Road is closed, some visitors have hiked from Yosemite Valley, which is a much longer and more strenuous trek.
The hike to Taft Point is approximately 2.2 miles round trip and typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Taft Point itself doesn't require a separate reservation, Yosemite National Park may have peak-hour vehicle reservation requirements during certain times of the year. Always check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
Taft Point is accessible whenever Glacier Point Road is open. The road typically opens in late spring and closes in the fall due to snow. There are no set 'opening hours' for the trail itself, but visiting during daylight hours is safest.
Yes, Yosemite National Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. You can purchase this at the park entrance stations or in advance online.
Taft Point is generally inaccessible in winter due to snow and road closures on Glacier Point Road. It's best to plan your visit during the warmer months when the road is open.
The main restriction is to stay on marked trails and be extremely cautious near cliff edges and fissures. Leave No Trace principles are strongly encouraged.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail to Taft Point is wide, well-maintained, and mostly flat with some gentle ups and downs. It's often described as more of a walk than a hike, making it accessible for many.
There is very limited railing at Taft Point, with most of the overlook being open cliff edge and fissures. This emphasizes the need for extreme caution.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the Merced River. The fissures in the granite are also a major draw.
Yes, the hike is easy for families, but extreme caution is advised around the unfenced cliffs and fissures. Keep a close eye on children at all times.
The Fissures are deep, dramatic cracks in the granite rock that run perpendicular to the cliff edge, offering a unique and somewhat unnerving geological feature.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Late afternoon into sunset is highly recommended for the best light, creating a golden glow over the valley and dramatic skies.
Experiment with forced perspective to create illusions of standing on the edge or interacting with the fissures. Many creators showcase these creative shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be helpful for sunset shots, but be mindful of other visitors.
Yes, Taft Point offers excellent views of El Capitan to the left, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos.
Drone usage is restricted in Yosemite National Park, including areas like Taft Point. Always check current NPS regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Don't miss the chance to experiment with forced perspective photography using the fissures and cliff edges to create dramatic and unique images. 🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Day-Trippers
It offers a significant visual payoff with minimal exertion, making it perfect for a day trip. Many visitors appreciate that it's a less strenuous option compared to some other Yosemite hikes, yet still delivers iconic views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Fissures
Creators often use the fissures for creative photography, playing with forced perspective to make it appear as though they are standing precariously close to the edge.
Capturing the Iconic Yosemite Sunset
+1 The unobstructed panorama allows for unobstructed views of the changing colors of the sky, often reflecting off the Merced River below. Many visitors, like those featured on Instagram and TikTok, make a point to stay until after sunset to witness the full spectacle.
The late afternoon light creates a magical atmosphere, and the cooler temperatures as evening approaches can make the experience even more enjoyable. Remember to bring a headlamp or flashlight for the hike back after dark, as the trail is not illuminated. Navigating Yosemite's Seasonal Access
+1 Visitors planning a trip should always check the official Yosemite National Park website for the most current road status. When Glacier Point Road is closed, reaching Taft Point becomes a significantly more challenging endeavor, often involving a very long hike from Yosemite Valley.
This highlights the importance of planning your visit during the season when the road is accessible to enjoy the relatively easy hike to Taft Point. Being aware of these seasonal limitations can save a lot of disappointment and help you plan a more successful trip to this iconic viewpoint. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit