Panorama Trail from Glacier Point: Waterfalls, Half Dome Views & Down‑Valley Descent
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and strong knees are required for sustained downhill sections and long mileage.
Overview
Descend from Glacier Point on the Panorama Trail and pass Illilouette, Nevada and Vernal Falls while watching Half Dome redraw the horizon. This full-day guided hike is a steep, 8.5-mile route with dramatic viewpoints and a shuttle return to Yosemite Valley.
Panorama Trail from Glacier Point: Waterfalls, Half Dome Views & Down‑Valley Descent
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The morning opens cold at Glacier Point. A line of pines leans into the light while Half Dome rises across the valley—an enormous, sheer face that seems to rearrange the horizon. From this rim the Panorama Trail steps off the cliff and immediately gives the day its purpose: a long, relentless descent that crops up breathtaking perspectives at every switchback.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Carry extra water and purification
Bring at least 2–3 liters and a small filter or tablets—guides have purification but your extra supply avoids delays.
Wear grippy, broken-in boots
Expect steep granite and wet, slippery sections on the Mist Trail; ankle support helps on long descents.
Protect against spray and sun
A lightweight waterproof shell for mist near Vernal Fall and sunscreen for exposed ridgelines keep comfort consistent.
Confirm shuttle logistics
The tour includes a return shuttle—arrive at the Yosemite Valley Lodge meeting point on time and have your phone number available in case plans change.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black bear
- Mule deer
History
Glacier Point and the surrounding valley were shaped by repeated glaciation; Indigenous Ahwahneechee people used these high-country corridors for millennia prior to Euro-American exploration.
Conservation
Stay on durable surfaces, pack out all waste, and follow food-storage rules—these measures protect fragile alpine soils and keep wildlife safe.
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Adventure Hotspots in Yosemite Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provide traction and ankle support for steep, often wet granite terrain.
Daypack with 2–3L water capacity
Holds water, layers, lunch and basic first-aid for a long day on trail.
Light waterproof shell
Shields against heavy spray on the Mist Trail during spring snowmelt.
spring specific
Trekking poles
Help reduce knee strain on the long descent and provide balance on wet steps.
summer specific