Olmsted Point: Yosemite's High-Country Vista
Experience Yosemite's iconic views of Half Dome and Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point, an easily accessible vista along the Tioga Road.
Olmsted Point, along Yosemite's Tioga Road, offers stunning panoramic views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and Tenaya Lake. Named after landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted Sr. and Jr., this easily accessible vista point showcases the dramatic impact of glaciers on the landscape.
A brief summary to Olmsted Point
- Parking lot, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
- Take the short trail to the granite dome for less obstructed views of Half Dome and Clouds Rest.
- Bring both wide-angle and telephoto lenses for capturing the expansive scenery and details.
- Check the opening and closing dates for Tioga Road, as it is typically open from late May/early June to sometime in November.
Getting There
-
Driving
Olmsted Point is located along Tioga Road (Highway 120), approximately 10 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows and 30 miles east of Crane Flat. From Yosemite Valley, take Highway 120 to the Crane Flat turnoff, then continue on Tioga Road to Olmsted Point. Tioga Road is typically open from late May or early June to sometime in November. Check current road conditions before heading out. Parking is available in a large lot at the trailhead. Parking is free.
Discover more about Olmsted Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Ahwahnee
10.6 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
11.1 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Curry Village
11.1 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
11.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
11.4 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Cemetery
11.4 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
12.4 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Parsons Memorial Lodge
12.8 km
Discover Yosemite's past at Parsons Memorial Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows, a historic stone landmark offering exhibits, events, and access to stunning alpine scenery and hiking trails.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
12.8 km
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unmatched views of Yosemite Valley and the Sierra Nevada.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
13.0 km
Enjoy stunning Yosemite Falls views and riverside relaxation at the accessible Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite Valley.
Tuolumne Meadows
13.1 km
Discover Yosemite's high-country paradise: breathtaking meadows, granite domes, and endless outdoor adventures await in Tuolumne Meadows.
Sentinel Dome
13.1 km
Hike to Yosemite's Sentinel Dome for panoramic views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and iconic landmarks. An unforgettable vista awaits!
Four Mile Trailhead
13.3 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
13.6 km
Hike the historic Yosemite Valley Loop Trail for iconic views, serene meadows, and a peaceful escape on the valley floor.
El Capitan Picnic Area
15.1 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tenaya Lake
3.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tenaya Lake, a serene glacial lake nestled in Yosemite National Park, offering outdoor adventures and stunning views.
Clouds Rest
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experience at Clouds Rest, a must-visit peak in California's stunning Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite National Park
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Yosemite National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Half Dome Trailhead
7.7 km
Experience the thrill of hiking the iconic Half Dome Trailhead in Yosemite National Park, where adventure and breathtaking views await every trekker.
Sub dome
8.0 km
Experience the stunning views and exhilarating hikes at Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Half Dome
8.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Half Dome, a must-visit peak in Yosemite National Park, California, offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures.
Mirror Lake
9.0 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park, where serene reflections and stunning landscapes await nature enthusiasts.
Little Yosemite Valley
10.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Little Yosemite Valley, a serene natural ravine in California that offers adventure, beauty, and tranquility.
Mirror Lake Trail
10.1 km
Explore the stunning Mirror Lake Trail in California, where serene waters meet majestic mountain views for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Nevada Fall
10.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Nevada Fall in Tuolumne Meadows, a natural wonder offering scenic views and unforgettable hiking experiences in Yosemite National Park.
Mist Trail
10.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mist Trail in California, where stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes await every adventurer.
Vernal Falls
10.6 km
Explore Vernal Falls, a breathtaking waterfall and scenic spot in Tuolumne Meadows, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Vernal Fall
10.6 km
Discover Vernal Fall, a stunning waterfall in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking views and invigorating hikes amidst California's natural beauty.
Happy Isles Bridge
10.8 km
Discover the natural beauty of Yosemite at Happy Isles Bridge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and breathtaking views.
Nature Center at Happy Isles
11.1 km
Explore the Nature Center at Happy Isles in Yosemite National Park, your essential guide to the wonders of California's natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Ahwahnee Bar
10.6 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
10.6 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
11.1 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
11.1 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Seven Tents Pavilion
11.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
11.2 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Loft at Degnan's
11.2 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
11.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Mountain Room
12.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
12.5 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
15.8 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The Skiers Grill
22.8 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
28.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
33.9 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
34.8 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
10.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
10.6 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
11.1 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
11.1 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
11.1 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
Degnan's Deli
11.2 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Village Store
11.3 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
11.3 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Housekeeping Camp Store
11.3 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Village Parking
11.4 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
12.0 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
12.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
12.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Starbucks Yosemite
12.5 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
12.5 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 1899
11.1 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
The Mountain Room Lounge
12.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Dry Creek Bar
43.1 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
43.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
44.1 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
45.2 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
46.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
47.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
47.6 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
47.7 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
48.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
48.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
48.6 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
48.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
49.5 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
