Easiest Best Hike in the World

Hike to Yosemite's Sentinel Dome and Taft Point

Taft Point Yosemite

Choose the easiest and most view-rewarding hike in Yosemite. Okay, we’ll go first: the combination of hiking to Sentinel Dome and Taft Point. Both of these lookouts are within a couple miles of each other on Glacier Point Road, and they’re connected by a nice walking trail surprisingly few people use.

All in, this 4.5-mile (round-trip) route is referred to by locals as “the easiest best hike in the world.” Sure, it is pretty easy. But with the elevation you’re at and a few moderate ups and downs, you can still feel a little out of breath, so take your time! The reward is some of the most spectacular views of the park.

Start this hike by heading to Sentinel Dome first—a nice 1.1-mile hike. The final bit on the actual dome is fun, and not sketchy. You’ll plateau on top with views spanning El Cap, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and the saw-toothed ruggedness of the High Sierra. (This view rivals the one at Clouds Rest—and is a fraction of the distance.)

Hike Sentinel Dome Taft Point Yosemite

After Sentinel Dome, continue to Taft Point. There are a couple of ways to get there, and we recommend the longer route (2.5 miles) that runs along the rim of the valley. There are surprisingly fewer people on this section, so you may have it to yourself. There’s also a very short detour to Roosevelt Point. Taft Point is simply stunning.

Hike Sentinel Dome Taft Point Yosemite

You’ll get an IMAX view of El Capitan and all down through the valley. Time your hike to be at Taft Point for sunset, and you’re in for a very special experience.

Drive on Glacier Point Rd. for 13.4 miles and park at the Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Trailhead. Be sure to bring a flashlight if you stay for sunset. We highly recommend you don’t wait until dark before hiking the 1 mile out … hike out while you still have light left. NOTE: It seems so obvious that it shouldn’t have to be mentioned, but Taft Point is not the place to be doing handstands and scissor-kick photos at its famous edges—that selfie is not worth it if stuff goes wrong … and it can go very wrong! Enjoy the setting, be smart. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Man hiking up a trail at Montara Mountain, with a view of the Pacific and Grey Whale sand beach in the background

    From Beach to Summit

    No need to decide between a beach and a mountaintop—this hike includes both! Explore the stunning coastal scenery on this 6-mile out-and-back up Montara Mountain and into Rancho Corral de Tierra.

    View
  2. Picnic and a Pedal

    West Marin has all the right stuff for an afternoon getaway: bike paths, babbling brooks, canopy forests, and secluded picnic spots. Combine a picnic and a pedal at Samuel P. Taylor State Park by biking the easygoing Cross Marin Trail.

    View
  3. Sebastopol Food & Wine Roll

    One apple farm, three charming towns, multiple wineries, and infinite natural beauty. Savor a perfect autumn day in Sonoma County by biking the West County Regional Trail from Sebastopol to Forestville via Graton. It’s a 17-mile (round-trip) adventure. 

    View
  4. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

    Want to be king of the mountain? Head to King Mountain, the 108-acre open space preserve just above Larkspur in Marin. Despite its lofty name, hiking King Mountain proves that simp

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman walking in the Venice Canals of Los Angeles County

    Canal Contemplations

    With its incense-scented boardwalk, bohemian shops, skateparks, and abundance of body builders, Venice is happily eccentric, and artistic. Exhibit A: Its network of European-style canals with charming bridges, offering a tranquil tour of the town’s history.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Yes, Seattle!

    Ready to try something new this winter? Seattle’s ready for you! Beautiful by nature with its Puget Sound setting, surrounding mountains, and nearby national parks, winter in Seattle can be a magical and festive time. Ever been in a hot tub boat?...

    View
  3. Wine Down, Dine Out in Lake Chelan

    The fertile soil around Washington State's Lake Chelan is ripe for more than just the amazing apples. Vineyards here yield high quality grapes, and some of the country’s best less-discovered wineries. Locals know it, and you will too when you start choosing from the more than 30 wineries in the region.

    View
  4. What's Up, Winthrop!

    It’s not just its location close to Washington State’s spectacular and less visited national park (North Cascades) that makes Winthrop such a winsome mountain town. This lively enclave in the Methow Valley bristles with a whimsical blend of Wild West charms, contemporary culture, and a mosaic of outdoor adventures—from river to lake to waterfalls, and beyond.

    View