- The falls are best in spring and early summer
- Mostly downhill hike from Glacier Point, with a short stretch of elevation
- Views of Half Dome, Nevada Fall, North Dome, Liberty Cap
- At Vernal Fall, you encounter the granite steps of Mist Trail
Overview
The Panorama Trail is named for the spectacular views of Yosemite Valley. The easiest way to take this trail in the summer is to ride the shuttle to Glacier Point, then hike the predominately downhill trail to end at Happy Isles. You can hike in either direction or both, as an out-and-back. The trail merges with Mist Trail at Nevada and Vernal Falls.
Trailhead
Begin at Panorama Trailhead, Glacier Point, for the downhill trek or at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley for the uphill climb.
Details
- Distance: 8.5 miles one way to valley floor
- Time: approximately 6 hours
- Elevation drop: 3200 feet
- Difficulty: strenuous, extremely difficult in winter
- Trail type: one way
- Trailhead: Glacier Point
Plan & Prepare
Use caution when near the river, and at view points, such as Panorama Point, since there are no guard rails. Be aware of forks in the road, there are three from the Glacier Point Trailhead, but they are marked, just follow them to stay on Panorama Trail.
