Hiking to Inspiration Point in Yosemite National Park
Hi friends! This week we’re in Yosemite National Park and heading out on a wonderful hike that heads into the Yosemite wilderness, leading to a spectacular and less-crowded overlook of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. Join me on the trail to Inspiration Point.
FAST FACTS
• Distance: 2.5 miles RT
• Elevation Change: 1000 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
Yosemite Valley views from Inspiration Point
Location
The trailhead for the Inspiration Point hike is located behind the Tunnel View parking area just off Highway 41 on the south side of the Wawona Tunnel. This trailhead is also the beginning of the Artist Point hike, as well as the famous Pohono Trail. The overlook from Tunnel View was made famous by Ansel Adams, and since you can simply park and see the unobstructed views of El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall, this spot is often packed with tourists and photographers. However, equally incredible views are on full display from Inspiration Point without the tour buss crowds...and since Inspiration Point is at a higher elevation, the Yosemite Valley views (in my opinion) are even more majestic.
Pohono Trail leading to Inspiration Point in Yosemite National Park
Hike
The hike to Inspiration Point is just over 2 1/2 miles round-trip with less than 1000 feet in elevation gain. The first half mile heads steeply up rough and rocky terrain lined with poison oak, so make sure to stay on the marked trail here. Heading out on this hike takes you into the Yosemite Wilderness, so it’s important to plan ahead and come prepared with knowledgeable navigation for your planned route. This hike takes you a long a section of the famous Pohono Trail...if you continue past Inspiration Point, the full Pohono Trail leads all the way to Glacier Point and is considered one of Yosemite’s more strenuous hikes extending 13 miles one way and gaining 3400 feet in elevation. If you’re interested in learning more about another great section of the Pohono Trail along the valley rim, check out my Pohono Loop blog post, which heads to some of the most spectacular overlooks in all of Yosemite National Park.
Pohono Trail leading to Inspiration Point in Yosemite National Park
Just over half a mile into this hike, you reach a split in the trail where you cross the old stagecoach road to Yosemite Valley. Heading to the left would take you to Artist Point, another wonderful overlook which I have a complete blog post on here. However, If you head straight, you’ll continue up through a heavily forested area rich with oak, fir, pine, and cedar trees. In another half mile the trail begins to level out, but for the most part this entire track is uphill...but that just means you can enjoy coasting downhill the whole way back to the trailhead.
Old Inspiration Point plaque with views blocked by trees
Inspiration Point viewing area just off the Pohono Trail
Inspiration Point
You’ll know you’ve reached Inspiration Point once you find a large, mostly flat granite shelf with a little loop path. Here you’ll find the remnants of an old stone Inspiration Point plaque and a survey marker in the ground. Interestingly, what you won’t see is views of the valley below...a century ago this spot would’ve shown off unobstructed views here. However, since the trees have grown, you’ll have to climb down about 15 feet to a lower granite platform in order to enjoy the stunning sites of Inspiration Point, This is where you’ll finally get the famous views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
Inspiration Point in Yosemite National Park
El Capitan and Half Dome seen from Inspiration Point
This is an incredible spot to enjoy any time of day. Many photographers love coming for sunrise or sunset, and while this location is significantly more quiet and secluded than Tunnel View, you should be prepared to share this shelf with one or two other adventurers (particularly during the popular summer months).
El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall from Inspiration Point
Know Before You Go
• You can combine the Artist Point hike with Inspiration Point from Briadalviel Fall parking area for a more intense hike at nearly 4 miles and almost 1500 feet in elevation change
• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
• Sections of the Pohono Trail are quite rocky and steep, so proper footwear is important.
• There are sections of the hike where poison oak lines the trail.
• Wildlife is abundant in Yosemite. Never leave food unattended, especially in your vehicle, as this is black bear territory.
• Always check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date road conditions, air quality, and possible closures prior to your visit.
Top 10 Yosemite Viewpoints
Inspiration Point
Stanford Point
El Capitan, Clouds Rest, and Half Dome seen from Inspiration Point
In Summary
Thank you so much for joining me in Yosemite today. For a virtual visit to Inspiration Point, make sure to check out my Behind the Blog video at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. For more great spots in this area, click here to read all of my Yosemite articles. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Sunrise view from the Pohono Trail in Yosemite
If you enjoyed this post, you might also like…
About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
Search the Blog
Featured Posts
Etsy Shop
What are the best places to stay in Yosemite National Park? Today I'm sharing one of the best Yosemite hotels for your next national park vacation. Centrally located near iconic landmarks, hiking trails, and viewpoints, Yosemite Valley Lodge is one of the top spots to stay in the park. Hike to the base of Lower Yosemite Falls, see Half Dome from Cooks Meadow, and grab food at on-site restaurants.