Sentinel Dome
Though it looks unimpressive, this second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley provides hikers with magnificent views.
Plan Around Sentinel Dome
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Sentinel Dome Details
This granite peak was originally called "Sakkaduch," then "South Dome," before given its current moniker because of its resemblance to a watchtower. The dome is easy to climb, with the trail crossing small brooks and groves of Jeffrey and ponderosa pines before climbing steadily over granite banks to the summit. The gnarled remnants of Ansel Adams' famous Jeffery pine are found on the south side of the peak, which coincidently offers the least exciting views. Otherwise, there are unbelievably spectacular and far-reaching views from El Capitan, to Half Dome, to the far-off Mount Diablo. Trailhead: 13 miles down Glacier Point Road NOTE: In July and lasting until early September, you may be required to use a free shuttle from Badger Pass to Glacier Point between 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. when the Glacier Point parking lot fills. If you arrive at the Badger Pass turnoff before 10 a.m. or after 4:30 p.m., you can drive to Glacier Point (and all trailheads). If you arrive between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and the Glacier Point parking lot is full, Park Rangers will have you park at Badger Pass and use the free shuttle to get to Glacier Point or other locations along the Glacier Point Road. Parking is available at Badger Pass for RVs and trailers. The free shuttle leaves Badger Pass every 20 minutes and stops at Sentinel Dome/Taft Point trailhead, Washburn Point, and Glacier Point. Upon request or flag-down, the shuttle stops at McGurk Meadow, Ostrander Lake, and Mono Meadow trailheads. The first shuttle leaves Badger Pass at 10 a.m., the last shuttle leaves Badger Pass at 4:30 p.m., and the last shuttle leaves Glacier Point at 5:30 p.m. (No shuttle service of any kind is available after 5:30 p.m.)
Difficulty
Low
Distance
2.2 miles
Estimated time
1.5 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Sentinel Dome
Compare nearby parks around Sentinel Dome when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Sentinel Dome
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Sentinel Dome while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Sentinel Dome (G8)
A fairly unimpressive granite dome that is actually the second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley.
0.1 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
Taft Point and the Fissures
One of the most unforgettable spots in Yosemite with impressive views of the north valley wall.
0.4 mi away
Switchbacks (G9)
Snake your way up these switchbacks on Yosemite Falls Trail to be rewarded at the top with incredible views.
0.7 mi away
Sentinel Dome
This fairly unimpressive-looking dome is actually the second highest viewpoint in Yosemite Valley.
