Sentinel Bridge: Yosemite's Iconic Vista
Capture the iconic view of Half Dome mirrored in the Merced River from this easily accessible and breathtaking Yosemite Valley landmark.
Sentinel Bridge offers a stunning, postcard-perfect view of Half Dome reflected in the Merced River, especially during the alpenglow at sunset. Located in Yosemite Valley, it's a popular spot for photographers and sightseers alike.
A brief summary to Sentinel Bridge
- Sentinel Bridge, Yosemite Valley, California, 95389, US
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast; a clear, calm day provides the most stunning reflections of Half Dome in the Merced River.
- Take advantage of the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to avoid parking hassles, especially during peak season.
- Combine your visit with a walk on the Cook's Meadow Loop for more panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.
Getting There
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Walking
From Yosemite Village, follow the paved path eastward along Sentinel Drive for approximately 0.5 miles. The bridge will be on your left, offering views of Half Dome. There are no fees associated with walking to the bridge.
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Public Transport
Take the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to Shuttle Stop #11, which is directly adjacent to Sentinel Bridge. The shuttle operates from 7 AM to 10 PM, with buses arriving every 12-22 minutes. There are no costs for using the shuttle.
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Driving
From Southside Drive, turn onto Sentinel Drive. Sentinel Bridge will be on your left. Limited parking is available near the bridge. Parking is free, but can be difficult to find during peak season. As an alternative, park at Yosemite Village and walk or take the free shuttle.
Discover more about Sentinel Bridge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Cemetery
0.6 km
Discover the stories etched in stone at Yosemite Cemetery, a serene and historic burial ground where pioneers and park figures rest amidst the valley's grandeur.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.6 km
Your gateway to Yosemite's backcountry: permits, bear canisters, expert advice, and essential resources for unforgettable wilderness adventures.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.8 km
Experience the majesty of Yosemite Falls from Yosemite Valley Lodge, offering comfortable lodging and convenient access to the park's iconic attractions and natural wonders.
Housekeeping Camp
0.9 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.
The Ahwahnee
1.4 km
Experience timeless elegance and natural beauty at The Ahwahnee, a National Historic Landmark in Yosemite Valley, offering stunning views, rich history, and luxurious accommodations.
Four Mile Trailhead
1.5 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Curry Village
1.8 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
El Capitan Picnic Area
3.2 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
3.9 km
Experience the majesty of Yosemite's Vernal Fall from the iconic footbridge, a moderate hike offering breathtaking views and a taste of the park's natural splendor along the famed Mist Trail.
El Capitan Trail
4.1 km
Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a world-renowned rock climbing destination and a symbol of nature's majesty, offering year-round beauty.
El Capitan
4.3 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Vernal Falls
4.4 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
El Capitan Meadow
4.6 km
Experience the awe-inspiring presence of El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith, from the serene beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite Valley.
Half Dome
5.0 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Cathedral Rocks
5.2 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.3 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 Village
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
0.4 km
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.
Yosemite Valley
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite Valley, a national reserve known for its majestic waterfalls and iconic granite formations, perfect for nature lovers.
Yosemite Falls View
0.6 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 Valley Welcome Center
0.6 km
Explore Yosemite Valley Welcome Center for essential information and exhibits that enhance your adventure in Yosemite National Park.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a spectacular waterfall trailhead in Yosemite National Park, perfect for hiking and photography.
Yosemite Museum
0.6 km
Discover the captivating history and ecology of Yosemite at the Yosemite Museum, a key stop for all visitors to this stunning national park.
The Ansel Adams Gallery
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking artistry of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park, where nature and photography unite in a stunning gallery experience.
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
0.6 km
Experience nature's beauty at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Exploration Center
0.6 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
0.9 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Essential places to dine
Village Grill
0.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
0.6 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.8 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
0.8 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
1.4 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
1.4 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.8 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.8 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.8 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
1.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
The Skiers Grill
11.1 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.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
15.0 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
17.1 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
23.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.8 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yosemite Village Parking
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Village Store
0.6 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
0.6 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Degnan's Deli
0.6 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.8 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.
Base Camp Eatery
0.8 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
0.8 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Housekeeping Camp Store
1.0 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
1.4 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
1.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
1.8 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.8 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.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
1.8 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.2 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
1.7 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
49.5 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
49.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
50.5 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
51.4 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
52.9 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
54.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
54.3 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
54.4 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
54.7 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
55.3 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
55.4 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
55.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
56.0 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.