Cook's Meadow Loop

Cook’s Meadow Loop is a flat, easy circuit over a paved bike path and meadow boardwalk, with Yosemite Falls and Half Dome in view. Starting at Yosemite Valley Visitor Center shuttle stop #5, the full mapped walk is about 1.3 miles and takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, including the short out-and-back onto Sentinel Bridge. A one-mile figure is also published for this loop; plan for the longer distance shown here. It is a good short walk when you want open Valley scenery without a climb.

Walk west from the visitor center toward Lower Yosemite Fall. At shuttle stop #6, cross the street and continue on the bike path, bearing left at the fork. At the Sentinel Bridge parking area, walk onto the bridge for the Half Dome view, then return to the lot. Follow the boardwalk across Cook’s Meadow, cross two streets, and turn right to return to the visitor center.

The meadow floor holds sediment left by glaciers and rockfalls. Water from the high country filters beneath the Valley floor and helps keep the meadow wet. Stay on the boardwalk and paths; walking into the meadow damages plants and the habitat they support.

The meadow is named for the Cook family, Yosemite-area business owners in the late 1800s. Its black oaks are significant to the Ahwahneechee people. Flycatchers, red-winged blackbirds, hawks, jays, butterflies, and dragonflies have been observed here, though sightings vary with season and conditions.

The route is open year-round and wheelchair accessible when it is not covered in snow. The boardwalk can be slippery when wet, frosty, or snow-covered. Dogs are allowed on the paved path and boardwalk on a leash no longer than six feet; keep them out of meadow grass. There is no drinking water or restroom along the walk; use facilities at the visitor center or near Lower Yosemite Fall. Park in Yosemite Village or Yosemite Falls and start at stop #5; stop #6 is another access point. Parking at Sentinel Bridge is minimal.