Washburn Point: A Yosemite Panorama
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Washburn Point: panoramic views of Half Dome, Nevada and Vernal Falls, and the High Sierra await along the scenic Glacier Point Road.
Washburn Point, a scenic overlook on Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park, offers breathtaking panoramic views of iconic landmarks. From this vantage point, visitors can witness Half Dome's unique profile, the cascading 'giant staircase' waterfalls of Nevada and Vernal Falls, and the picturesque Illilouette Fall. Named after the Washburn brothers, who played a crucial role in constructing the early roads to Yosemite Valley, Washburn Point provides a slightly different, yet equally stunning, perspective compared to nearby Glacier Point. Its accessibility and unforgettable vistas make it a must-stop for anyone exploring Yosemite's high country, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A brief summary to Washburn Point
- 5202 Glacier Point Rd, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially for sunrise or sunset, as parking can be limited during peak times.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience and spot details on Half Dome and the waterfalls.
- Check road conditions before you go, as Glacier Point Road is typically closed from late October/November to late May/early June due to snow.
- Pack layers, as the weather at Washburn Point can change quickly, even in summer.
- Utilize the accessible parking and viewing areas if needed, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stunning vistas.
Getting There
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Driving
From Yosemite Valley, follow signs for Bridalveil Fall and Tunnel View, which will lead you onto the Wawona Road (Highway 41). Continue for approximately 9 miles to the Glacier Point Road junction. Turn east onto Glacier Point Road and drive for 15 miles. Washburn Point's parking lot will be on your right. Note: Glacier Point Road is typically open from late May/early June to October/November. Vehicles longer than 30 feet and vehicles pulling trailers are not allowed past Sentinel Dome parking lot. Limited parking is available; arrive early, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Washburn Point
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Curry Village
1.9 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
2.0 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Housekeeping Camp
2.3 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.
The Ahwahnee
2.9 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.
Four Mile Trailhead
2.9 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 Wilderness Center
3.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
3.4 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
3.4 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
El Capitan Picnic Area
4.3 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
4.6 km
A scenic picnic spot in Yosemite Valley with stunning El Capitan views and Merced River access, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
4.8 km
Hike to the top of Yosemite Falls for unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley and a challenging workout amidst stunning natural beauty.
Sub dome
4.9 km
Conquer the Sub Dome, conquer Half Dome. A challenging climb with rewarding views in Yosemite National Park.
El Capitan Trail
5.5 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 Meadow
5.5 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.
Cathedral Rocks
5.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glacier Point
0.9 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park from Glacier Point, where breathtaking vistas and nature's wonders await every traveler.
Glacier Point Trailside Museum
0.9 km
Explore the Glacier Point Trailside Museum and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Yosemite National Park.
Panorama And Pohono Trailheads
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking trails of Panorama and Pohono, where adventure and stunning views await in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, California.
Sentinel Dome
1.0 km
Hike to the top of Sentinel Dome for unmatched 360° views of Yosemite Valley, including Half Dome and El Capitan.
Nature Center at Happy Isles
1.6 km
Explore the Nature Center at Happy Isles in Yosemite National Park, your essential guide to the wonders of California's natural beauty.
Happy Isles Bridge
1.9 km
Discover the natural beauty of Yosemite at Happy Isles Bridge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and breathtaking views.
Four Mile Trail
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Four Mile Trail in California, where panoramic views and diverse landscapes await every nature lover and hiker.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
2.2 km
Explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center: A blend of nature, history, and conservation in the heart of Yosemite National Park.
Mirror Lake Trail
2.6 km
Explore the stunning Mirror Lake Trail in California, where serene waters meet majestic mountain views for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Vernal Fall
2.7 km
Discover Vernal Fall, a stunning waterfall in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking views and invigorating hikes amidst California's natural beauty.
Vernal Falls
2.7 km
Explore Vernal Falls, a breathtaking waterfall and scenic spot in Tuolumne Meadows, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
2.8 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.
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
2.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, a perfect spot for family picnics and nature lovers.
Sentinel Bridge
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Mist Trail
3.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mist Trail in California, where stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes await every adventurer.
Essential places to dine
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.8 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
Seven Tents Pavilion
1.9 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.9 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.9 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
The Ahwahnee Bar
2.9 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.9 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Village Grill
3.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
3.2 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
3.4 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
3.4 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Skiers Grill
10.3 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
17.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
17.9 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
21.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
Jackalope's Bar and Grill
28.0 km
Discover Jackalope's Bar and Grill in Fish Camp - where hearty American grill favorites meet stunning Sierra Nevada views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
0.9 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.9 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
1.9 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
1.9 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Housekeeping Camp Store
2.3 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
2.9 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Yosemite Village Parking
2.9 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
2.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Village Store
3.1 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Degnan's Deli
3.3 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
3.4 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Base Camp Eatery
3.4 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
3.4 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
3.4 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
3.5 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 1899
1.9 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
The Mountain Room Lounge
3.4 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Dry Creek Bar
47.6 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
47.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
48.5 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
49.4 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
51.0 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
52.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
52.5 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
52.5 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
52.8 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
53.4 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
53.5 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
53.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
54.1 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
