Taft Point and the Fissures in California State

Taft Point and the Fissures

One of the most unforgettable spots in Yosemite with impressive views of the north valley wall.

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Taft Point and the Fissures Details

Like Glacier Point, Taft Point provides excellent views of some of the valley's most prominent pinnacles. The short trail to the point begins by entering a meadow but remains a flat, passably easy hike as it continues over rocky plateaus before reaching the viewpoint. There are five huge cracks, often referred to as the "Five Fissures," in the granite that break through the rock and drop straight down, 3,000 feet to the valley floor. The last of the fissures, named Profile Cliff, is the most dramatic and offers thrilling views of the valley, Cathedral Spires, Mt. Hoffman, and El Capitan. Taft Point is a place where you can challenge your fear of heights. It is one area of the Park where you can walk right to the edge of the cliff and peer straight down without being encumbered by any stone walls. It's a thrilling experience for those who are brave enough at heart to give it a try. Trailhead: Sentinel Dome trailhead

Difficulty

Low

Distance

2.2 miles

Estimated time

1.5 hours

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Taft Point and the Fissures

Compare nearby parks around Taft Point and the Fissures when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

2.5 mi away

Yosemite

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122.2 mi away

Pinnacles

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Death Valley

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Lassen Volcanic

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307.6 mi away

Joshua Tree

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309.2 mi away

Great Basin

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Taft Point and the Fissures

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Taft Point and the Fissures while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Taft Point and the Fissures

One of the most unforgettable spots in the Park with impressive views of the north valley wall.

0.1 mi away

Sentinel Dome

Though it looks unimpressive, this second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley provides hikers with magnificent views.

0.1 mi away

Sentinel Dome (G8)

A fairly unimpressive granite dome that is actually the second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley.

0.5 mi away

Switchbacks (G9)

Snake your way up these switchbacks on Yosemite Falls Trail to be rewarded at the top with incredible views.

0.8 mi away

Sentinel Dome

This fairly unimpressive-looking dome is actually the second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley.