Taft Point

A short, low-gain hike from Glacier Point Road reaches this granite rim above the south wall of Yosemite Valley, known for its views of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. The round trip is 2.2 miles and about one to two hours. The trail crosses forest and meadow, dropping about 200 feet toward the point before climbing back to the trailhead.

The wooded walk opens onto the rim and the nearby Fissures, narrow cracks in the granite. The fractures include drops of up to 2,000 feet; keep well back from the edge and cracks, and keep children close. Both Taft Point and Sentinel Dome start at the same trailhead, and a longer loop can connect them by the Pohono Trail.

From the rim, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls stand across Yosemite Valley. For a strong picture, frame the far wall with the granite rim or a pine in the foreground, and take it from solid ground well back from the drop.

The Fissures are joints: fractures that split the granite into blocks. Joints helped guide the glaciers that shaped Yosemite's cliffs and valley. Much of the park's granite began as magma intruded into the crust during the Mesozoic Era, long before glacial erosion exposed the rock.

The trailhead is reachable by car only while Glacier Point Road is open, typically from late May through October or November depending on conditions. Services in this area are extremely limited, so carry enough water for the whole hike. Pit toilets are at the trailhead parking area. There is no shuttle between Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point; arrange transport to the trailhead. If you stay for sunset, bring a flashlight or headlamp for the walk back.