Four Mile Trail

Overview

This is Yosemite Valley’s stairmaster: 4.8 miles one way (about 9.6 miles round trip) climbing roughly 3,200 feet from the Valley floor to Glacier Point. Despite the name, it’s closer to five miles—blame an 1870s toll trail that’s been rerouted over the years. Expect a steady grind of switchbacks, big payoffs in views, and an honest workout. Typical time is 3–4 hours up, 6–8 hours round trip.

Route & Views

The trail starts along Southside Drive near the base of Sentinel Rock and then switchbacks relentlessly to Glacier Point. As you gain elevation, the views just keep leveling up: Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, Cathedral Rocks, North Dome, Royal Arches, and a superb “reverse Tunnel View” perspective of the Valley. About two-thirds of the way up, a short spur to Union Point offers a quieter lookout and a breather before the final push.

Best Times to Hike

The trail typically opens sometime in May and usually closes by November or December when snow and ice take over. Even during partial winter closures, the lower miles can be very icy—check conditions before you go. In-season, start early to keep most of the climb in shade and dodge midday heat; afternoons can be a slog in full sun. For photos, morning light favors the Valley and Yosemite Falls; late-day light warms Half Dome and the high country.

Logistics: Water, Restrooms, Parking

There’s no drinking water on the trail. Pack about 2 liters per person for a one-way hike and 4 liters for a round trip. Restrooms: none at the trailhead; vault toilets are near the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. Glacier Point has restrooms and, when facilities are open (roughly late spring to early fall), a seasonal snack stand and water. Parking is limited along Southside Drive at the trailhead; Glacier Point also has parking. The free Valleywide Shuttle stops at the trailhead (stop 11).

One-Way Strategies & Extensions

Many hikers make this a one-way by riding the concessioner bus up to Glacier Point and hiking down. That’s the easy-button version of the hike, but note there is no free shuttle between Glacier Point and the Valley, and rides down from Glacier Point are cash-only, space-available, and not guaranteed—don’t count on it. Strong hikers can turn the day into a grand tour: Four Mile up, then the Panorama Trail to Happy Isles (about 14 miles total), adding Illilouette, Nevada, and Vernal Falls plus a climb out of Illilouette Gorge.

Trail Conditions & Safety

Footing can be deceptively slick: sections are partially paved with a layer of loose sand and decomposed granite, and sprained ankles are common—trekking poles help on the descent. The grade is sustained with steep drop-offs in places; stay on the trail and never cut switchbacks. Pets, bicycles, and strollers aren’t allowed. Keep food within arm’s reach and never feed wildlife.

What You’re Seeing

Those sheer walls and domes are hard granitic rocks sculpted by rivers and later by repeated glaciations that carved the Valley into its classic U-shape. The most recent major glaciation (Tioga) ended thousands of years ago, leaving polished slabs, hanging valleys, and the stage for Yosemite’s waterfalls—features you’ll appreciate more with every switchback upward.