Inspiration Point Trail

Inspiration Point is a 2.6-mile out-and-back from Tunnel View, climbing roughly 1,000 feet to a granite overlook above Yosemite Valley. Allow about two hours. It gives you a quieter angle on the valley than the famous roadside stop, but the short distance hides a sustained climb. Dogs are not allowed on Yosemite hiking trails; only service animals may accompany hikers.

Start at the trailhead on the south, uphill side of Wawona Road. The first half-mile is the steepest, on rocky tread under canyon live oak, Douglas-fir, incense cedar and ponderosa pine. The trees open in a few places for views back down the valley. At roughly 0.6 mile, cross the old stagecoach road and continue uphill on the Pohono Trail; turning onto the old road leads to Artists Point, a separate hike.

The historic stone marker is not the best viewpoint: trees now screen much of its granite shelf. Follow the unmarked path downhill for about 50 yards to the current open shelf, roughly 15 feet below. From there, El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall stand out across the valley, with the rest of the panorama framed by trees. Take care on the short informal spur, then return the way you came. This hillside was one of the old Wawona Road viewpoints; the newer road replaced that stagecoach approach in 1933.