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Yosemite - Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point

Southside Drive, Yosemite Valley, California

Description

The Four Mile Trail takes hikers from the Yosemite Valley floor all the way to Glacier Point, zigzaging their way up nearly 1,000m of elevation. On the way there are sweeping views over El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and, at the summit, over the half Dome and the High Sierra beyond. The trail isn't very technical but the elevation gain (and loss on the way back) means that a decent level of fitness and experience is preferrable. Note that the "Four Mile' has become a bit of a misnomer, today it is around 4.8 mile which makes for a return trip of 15.5km.

Access & Transport

The trailhead is along Southside Dr,. close to the Sentinel Beach Parking area. The Valley itself is 150km north of Fresno, 175km west of Modesto and 300km west of San Francisco.

Instructions & Recommendations

There is a long road to Glacier Point as well if you are only interested in the views, but it was closed at the time of this review update. Make sure to take plenty of water with you, proper hiking or trail running shoes - note that there can be snow on the trail up until May - and a windbreaker for the summit.

Meta review

Fantastically popular for the views of Yosemite Falls (one of the best vantage points according to many reviewers) and those at Glacier Point but the trail itself isn't crowded (unlike the summit when the road is open). Many find it very demanding though, in particular in hot weather (recurring recommendations to carry enough water) but some think it is just manageable for families - so it does really depend on referential and fitness levels.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity. Socially neural

Conclusion

This is a real mountain hike with relentless ascent but the trail is well maintained and the views unmatched - some of the best in California in our personal opinion. Logistics are fairly straightforward and you can't get lost. Highly recommended.

Key positive

Amazing views

Not crowded

Key negative

Long continuous descent can be demanding on knees

Suitability

Possibly challenging for families with younger children. Decent fitness level required

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
3h up, 30mins at the top, 2h down

av. transport time:0h 30m

est. visit time:5h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
No charge for the trail but there is an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle for the park
Free

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