Discover the Serenity of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop, a serene hiking paradise in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Embark on a captivating journey through the breathtaking Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop in Tuolumne Meadows, California. This picturesque hiking area offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic views of Yosemite's natural wonders, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
- TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, Yosemite Village, California, 95389, US
- 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
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Half Dome and El Capitan.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the meadow, surrounded by nature.
- Be prepared for changing weather; layers are recommended.
- Respect wildlife; observe animals from a distance and do not feed them.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to Yosemite Valley. From the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, take Southside Drive (also known as the Valley Loop Road) heading east. Continue for about 1 mile until you reach the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls. From there, turn left onto Northside Drive. After approximately 0.5 miles, you will find the entrance to the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop parking area on your right. There is no fee for parking at this location, but a valid national park entrance pass is required to enter Yosemite National Park.
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Public Transportation (YARTS)
If you are using public transportation, take the YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) bus service. Look for the bus route that connects with the Yosemite Valley. The nearest stop to the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop is the Yosemite Lodge stop. Once you arrive at the Yosemite Lodge, follow the signs to the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop trailhead, which is a short walk from the lodge (approximately 0.25 miles). Make sure to check the current YARTS schedule for the most accurate times and possible costs, which may vary.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can rent bikes in Yosemite Valley. From the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, ride along Southside Drive towards the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop. The biking path is well-marked and safe, taking you about 1 mile to reach the loop. Riding a bike can be a fun and scenic way to explore the area. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow park regulations.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Yosemite Valley, walking to the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop is a delightful option. From the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, walk along the paved paths towards Southside Drive. Follow the road for about 1 mile until you reach the Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop entrance. This walk offers beautiful views of the valley and is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Discover more about Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.5 km
Discover the beauty of Yosemite National Park from the comfort of Yosemite Valley Lodge, where adventure meets relaxation in stunning natural surroundings.
Yosemite Cemetery
0.5 km
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Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.7 km
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Yosemite National Park at the Yosemite Wilderness Center, your gateway to adventure and exploration in nature's masterpiece.
Housekeeping Camp
1.3 km
Discover the ultimate camping experience at Housekeeping Camp, where comfort meets the stunning wilderness of Yosemite National Park.
Four Mile Trailhead
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Four Mile Trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows, offering stunning views of Yosemite's iconic landscapes.
The Ahwahnee
1.7 km
Experience luxury and nature at The Ahwahnee, an iconic hotel in Yosemite Valley, perfect for your outdoor adventures and serene getaways.
Curry Village
2.2 km
Discover the enchanting Curry Village, a perfect blend of rustic lodging and stunning natural beauty in Yosemite Valley, ideal for adventurers and nature lovers.
El Capitan Picnic Area
3.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of El Capitan Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park—a perfect spot for family picnics and outdoor relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
El Capitan Trail
3.9 km
Explore the breathtaking El Capitan Trail in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit hiking destination offering stunning views and diverse ecosystems.
El Capitan
4.1 km
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Vernal Falls Footbridge
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Vernal Falls Footbridge in Yosemite National Park, where nature's beauty and adventure await around every corner.
El Capitan Meadow
4.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Vernal Falls
4.8 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Cathedral Rocks
5.1 km
Discover Cathedral Rocks in California, a stunning natural cliff formation ideal for hiking, photography, and experiencing breathtaking landscapes.
Half Dome
5.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling hikes of Half Dome, a must-visit granite peak in Yosemite National Park, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yosemite Valley
0.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite Valley, a national reserve known for its majestic waterfalls and iconic granite formations, perfect for nature lovers.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a spectacular waterfall trailhead in Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking and photography.
Yosemite Falls View
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls View, a must-visit attraction in Yosemite National Park known for its stunning vistas and natural wonders.
Yosemite Village
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
0.4 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Sentinel Bridge
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
0.5 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Yosemite Museum
0.6 km
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Indian Village of Ahwahnee
0.6 km
Explore the Indian Village of Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley, a cultural gem showcasing the heritage of the Ahwahneechee people amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
0.7 km
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Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
0.7 km
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Yosemite Exploration Center
0.7 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
The Ansel Adams Gallery
0.7 km
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Essential places to dine
The Mountain Room
0.5 km
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Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.5 km
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The Loft at Degnan's
0.8 km
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Village Grill
0.8 km
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The Ahwahnee Dining Room
1.7 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
1.7 km
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Curry Village Pizza Deck
2.2 km
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Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
2.2 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
2.2 km
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Seven Tents Pavilion
2.2 km
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The Skiers Grill
11.1 km
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White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
14.6 km
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The River Restaurant & Lounge
16.9 km
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Wawona Hotel Dining Room
23.8 km
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The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.5 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.5 km
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Starbucks Yosemite
0.5 km
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Base Camp Eatery
0.5 km
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Yosemite Visitor Center
0.6 km
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Degnan's Deli
0.8 km
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Yosemite Village Parking
0.8 km
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Village Store
0.8 km
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Housekeeping Camp Store
1.4 km
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The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
1.7 km
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The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
1.7 km
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Curry Village Gift and Grocery
2.2 km
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Curry Village Coffee Corner
2.2 km
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Mountain Shop at Curry Village
2.2 km
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
0.5 km
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Bar 1899
2.2 km
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Dry Creek Bar
49.9 km
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Tusks Bar
50.1 km
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Steeps Bar
50.8 km
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Basin Bar
51.8 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
53.2 km
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Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
54.5 km
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Clocktower Cellar
54.7 km
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Mammoth Brewing Company
54.7 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
55.1 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
55.7 km
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Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
55.7 km
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The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
55.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
56.4 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
