Sentinel & Cook's Meadow Loop: Yosemite Valley's Iconic Views
Easy loop trail in Yosemite Valley with iconic views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and lush meadows, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
The Sentinel and Cook's Meadow Loop is an easy, 2.25-mile stroll through the heart of Yosemite Valley, offering stunning, panoramic views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, and Glacier Point. Ideal for families and casual hikers, this mostly flat trail showcases the valley's most famous landmarks, especially vibrant in spring and early summer when wildflowers bloom and Yosemite Falls roars.
A brief summary to Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
- TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, Yosemite Village, California, 95389, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in spring or early summer for peak wildflower blooms and the most powerful flow of Yosemite Falls.
- Bring your camera! Sentinel Bridge is a popular spot for sunset photos of Half Dome.
- Take the short detour to Lower Yosemite Fall for an up-close view of the base of the falls.
- Consider starting at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history and ecology.
- Use the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to reach the trailhead and avoid parking hassles.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center (shuttle stop #5 or #9), walk west along the bike path towards Lower Yosemite Fall. At shuttle stop #6, cross the street and follow the bike path, bearing left as the path forks. The loop begins as you come into view of Cook's Meadow. Alternatively, start at the Sentinel Bridge parking area (shuttle stop #11) and walk out onto the bridge to begin the loop. No cost is associated with walking the loop.
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Public Transport
Use the free Yosemite Valley shuttle to reach trailheads for the Sentinel and Cook's Meadow Loop. The Valleywide Shuttle serves all stops in Yosemite Valley. Get off at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center (shuttle stop #5 or #9), Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead (shuttle stop #6), or Sentinel Bridge (shuttle stop #11) to access the loop. The shuttle is free.
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Driving
Drive into Yosemite Valley and park at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, along Southside Drive near Sentinel Meadow, at the Swinging Bridge parking lot, or along Northside Drive. Parking is free within Yosemite National Park. However, during peak season (May 24-26, June 15 – August 15, August 30 – September 1 in 2025), a vehicle reservation may be required to enter the park between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. and costs $2. In addition to the reservation fee, the Yosemite National Park entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
Discover more about Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
0.5 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.7 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
1.3 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.
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!
The Ahwahnee
1.7 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.
Curry Village
2.2 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
El Capitan Picnic Area
3.1 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
El Capitan Trail
3.9 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
4.1 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
4.3 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
El Capitan Meadow
4.5 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.
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
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Half Dome
5.3 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yosemite Valley
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures in Yosemite Valley, a national reserve celebrated for its majestic granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.1 km
Experience iconic Yosemite views on this easy, accessible loop trail through Cook's Meadow, offering stunning perspectives of Yosemite's natural wonders.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Falls, a stunning hiking area in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for all adventurers.
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
Explore Yosemite Museum: A Journey Through Nature and Culture in Yosemite National Park.
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 Welcome Center
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Yosemite National Park from the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, your gateway to adventure and discovery in nature's masterpiece.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
0.7 km
Discover Yosemite's wonders: exhibits, films, and expert advice await at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to an unforgettable park experience.
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
Discover the breathtaking artistry of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park, where nature and photography unite in a stunning gallery experience.
Essential places to dine
The Mountain Room
0.5 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.5 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Loft at Degnan's
0.8 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
0.8 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
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
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
2.2 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
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
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
2.2 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
14.6 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
16.9 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
23.8 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.4 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.5 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
0.5 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
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
0.8 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
0.8 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
0.8 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Housekeeping Camp Store
1.4 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 Gift Shop
1.7 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
1.7 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
2.2 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
2.2 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
2.2 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
2.6 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
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
2.2 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
49.9 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
50.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
50.8 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
51.8 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
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
54.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
54.7 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
54.7 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
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
55.7 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
55.9 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.
