Artist Point Yellowstone
Artist Point offers breathtaking, crowd-free Yosemite Valley views. A moderate 2.6-mile hike rewards with iconic vistas of El Capitan, Half Dome, and ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, better light
Artist Point Yellowstone
Best Time
Fewer people, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Artist Point offers breathtaking, crowd-free Yosemite Valley views. A moderate 2.6-mile hike rewards with iconic vistas of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
"The views from Artist Point are stunning and a great alternative to the crowded Tunnel View."
🎯 Turn Left for Artist Point!
At the Inspiration Point junction, turn LEFT to reach Artist Point. Signage is minimal, so pay attention!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The trail can be steep and hot, especially at the beginning. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Yosemite Valley Views
Artist Point Overlook
Experience breathtaking, crowd-free vistas of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Falls.
Peaceful Alternative to Tunnel View
Trailhead near Tunnel View
Escape the throngs at Tunnel View and find serenity on this less-trafficked trail.
Challenging but Rewarding Hike
The 2.6-mile trail
A moderate climb with switchbacks and rocky terrain leading to an unforgettable viewpoint.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Artist Point
Trail Conditions & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Turn Left for Artist Point!
At the Inspiration Point junction, turn LEFT to reach Artist Point. Signage is minimal, so pay attention!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The trail can be steep and hot, especially at the beginning. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky with inclines and some scrambling. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
📸 Capture the Uncrowded Views
Artist Point offers stunning photo ops without the usual crowds. Perfect for photographers! 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Turn Left for Artist Point!
At the Inspiration Point junction, turn LEFT to reach Artist Point. Signage is minimal, so pay attention!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The trail can be steep and hot, especially at the beginning. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky with inclines and some scrambling. Good hiking shoes are recommended.
📸 Capture the Uncrowded Views
Artist Point offers stunning photo ops without the usual crowds. Perfect for photographers!
🚶♀️ Skip Tunnel View Crowds
For a more serene experience, hike Artist Point instead of stopping at the busy Tunnel View.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Artist Point for its stunning, crowd-free views of Yosemite Valley, calling it a superior alternative to the busy Tunnel View. The hike is considered moderately challenging but rewarding, with spectacular photo opportunities. Some note the trail's minimal signage and the need for sturdy footwear.
"The trails is a bit rocky but not super difficult. The view from Tunnel View is superior to anything you will see on the trail, the view at the top is obstructed. But if you want some extra mileage go ahead."
Michael Antonelli
"The views along this trail are amazing. Instead of spending time at tunnel view which is crowded and loud take a bit more time and hike up this trail. It only takes a few minutes for the sounds to fade away and the sweeping views to take their place. It's a bit steep at the very beginning but gets less so after a little bit."
Curtis Lannom
"Loved this hike - awesome quiet place to get a tunnel view - just be careful not to go straight on when you see a sign for Inspiration point - there is no sign to artist point so when you meet the junction to inspiration point turn left. Tip it’s a climb so make sure you have water it was pretty hot today when we climbed"
Shelly Reitzer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead for Artist Point is located on the left side of the Tunnel View parking lot. It's not as well-marked as other Yosemite trails, so keep an eye out.
Yes, you can drive to the Tunnel View parking lot, which is the starting point for the Artist Point hike. Tunnel View is a popular scenic overlook accessible by car.
Look for the trailhead on the left side of the Tunnel View parking lot. There isn't prominent signage for Artist Point itself, so be prepared for a bit of exploration.
No, Artist Point requires a hike. While it's a moderate 2.6-mile roundtrip, it's not directly accessible by car.
Absolutely! It offers incredible views similar to Tunnel View but with fewer people, making it a worthwhile addition to any Yosemite itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Artist Point is located within Yosemite National Park, so you will need a park entrance pass to enter. Check the official Yosemite National Park website for current fees and reservation requirements.
There are no separate fees for hiking the Artist Point trail itself, beyond the general Yosemite National Park entrance fee.
Artist Point is accessible year-round, but trail conditions can vary with weather. Yosemite National Park is generally open 24/7, but it's best to check for any seasonal closures or advisories.
You don't book tickets specifically for Artist Point. You need to secure park entrance reservations or passes for Yosemite National Park, which can often be booked in advance.
While less popular than Tunnel View, Artist Point is gaining recognition for its stunning, less crowded views. It's recommended to visit early or late to avoid crowds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Artist Point trail is about 2.6 miles roundtrip. Most visitors take 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the hike, including time for photos and enjoying the views.
The trail is considered moderate. It has a significant elevation gain of around 800 feet with steep sections and switchbacks, but it's manageable for most hikers.
From Artist Point, you'll get spectacular, unobstructed views of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. It's a fantastic alternative to Tunnel View.
No, the trail signage for Artist Point is minimal. It's important to know that you should turn left at the junction for Inspiration Point to reach Artist Point.
Restrooms are available at the Tunnel View parking lot, which is the trailhead. There are no facilities directly at the Artist Point overlook.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden hour glow. Sunrise is recommended to avoid crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, the trail itself offers glimpses of the valley, but the main panoramic views are at the final overlook.
Artist Point provides similar iconic views but with significantly fewer people, allowing for more unobstructed and personal photography.
Yes, Half Dome is a prominent feature visible from Artist Point, offering a classic Yosemite photography subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting early in the morning to avoid the heat and potential fatigue. The views of El Capitan and Half Dome are sure to capture their imaginations. While the trail has some inclines, it's generally considered manageable for families who enjoy a bit of an outdoor challenge. It's a great way to introduce children to the beauty of Yosemite in a slightly more secluded setting.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the valley and a tripod for sharper images, especially in lower light conditions. The trail itself, while a moderate hike, offers opportunities for interesting compositions with the natural terrain. The sense of discovery and the ability to frame your shots without a multitude of other visitors makes Artist Point a superior choice for dedicated photographers.
+1🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
The advantage of this hike is the spectacular payoff: breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley without the overwhelming crowds found at Tunnel View. It’s an excellent way to stretch your legs and experience the park's grandeur in a more peaceful setting. The trail's moderate difficulty makes it accessible for many, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the overlook is a significant draw.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artist Point Trail Experience
Despite the physical effort, the payoff is immense. The trail offers a sense of solitude and a chance to connect with nature away from the main tourist hubs. The sounds of the valley fade as you ascend, replaced by the quiet rustling of leaves and the distant calls of birds. This peaceful atmosphere enhances the anticipation of the grand reveal at the summit. It's an excellent option for those seeking a more immersive experience of Yosemite's grandeur without the overwhelming crowds.
Upon reaching Artist Point, you're greeted with a breathtaking panorama that rivals, and some argue surpasses, the view from Tunnel View. The overlook provides a stunning, unobstructed perspective of Yosemite Valley's most famous landmarks, including the imposing El Capitan, the majestic Half Dome, and the delicate Bridalveil Fall. This vantage point is a photographer's dream, offering ample opportunities for capturing iconic Yosemite scenes with a sense of personal discovery.
Why Artist Point is a Hidden Gem
Many visitors find that the effort to reach Artist Point is well worth it for the tranquility it provides. Unlike Tunnel View, which can be packed with tour buses and selfie-takers, Artist Point allows for a more contemplative experience. You can linger, take your time with photos, and truly soak in the magnificent scenery. This sense of peace and personal connection to the landscape is a significant draw for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Yosemite's natural wonders.
The trail's relative obscurity also means it's a fantastic option for photographers looking for unique angles and fewer people in their shots. The views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall are just as spectacular, if not more so, from this vantage point. It's a place where you can truly feel like you've discovered something special, a secret spot offering the quintessential Yosemite vista.
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