Dewey Point Trail

Dewey Point Trail is an 8.2-mile out-and-back from McGurk Meadow Trailhead to a viewpoint on the rim above Yosemite Valley. Allow 4–5 hours and expect about 750 feet of total climbing. It’s worth a half day if you want to walk to the rim for a broad valley view; it’s a lot of trail for one main destination if you’re short on time.

The trail drops through McGurk Meadow, then continues about a mile to the Pohono Trail junction. Turn left, west, for Dewey Point. The route descends roughly 250 feet before the junction, then climbs about 500 feet over the final two miles. You return the same way, reversing that climb and the earlier descent.

McGurk Meadow is an open stop on the approach. In early summer, it’s known for a strong wildflower display. The meadow also holds the site of an old cabin that belonged to sheepherder John McGurk; take a moment to notice the place before continuing toward the rim.

At the end, the trees open onto a panoramic look across Yosemite Valley, with El Capitan close across the gorge. This is the walk’s big payoff. Frame El Capitan and the full valley together so the cliffs give the view its scale.

Begin at McGurk Meadow Trailhead on Glacier Point Road. There’s no formal lot; parking is along the road’s north shoulder a few hundred metres east, and a vault toilet is at the trailhead. Glacier Point Road is seasonal, usually open from late May through October or November. Pets and bicycles aren’t allowed on Yosemite hiking trails.