Year-Round Summit Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Snowshoe through Yosemite’s quiet winter forest to Dewey Point, one of the most dramatic overlooks above Yosemite Valley. This guide-favorite winter route rewards you with sweeping, bird’s-eye views of Yosemite Falls plunging into the valley below, along with El Capitan, Half Dome, and expansive High Country vistas. The combination of deep snow, solitude, and iconic scenery makes this one of Yosemite’s most unforgettable winter summit experiences.

• Distance: 7.5 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Snowshoeing

This springtime classic climbs the eastern rim of Yosemite Valley on a variation of the famed Mist Trail. Beginning on the valley floor, you’ll ascend past the thundering Vernal Fall to Clark Point, gaining dramatic views high above the Merced River. The return follows a scenic stretch of the John Muir Trail, offering a slower, more contemplative descent. Waterfalls are often at peak flow during these months, making this an especially dynamic time to hike.

• Distance: 7 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

Hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls during peak runoff is one of the most powerful experiences the park has to offer. This classic route climbs to the northern rim of Yosemite Valley, where you’ll stand above the tallest waterfall in North America and take in commanding views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and the valley below. A favorite of John Muir, this trail combines history, raw natural power, and unforgettable vistas.

• Distance: 7.5–9.5 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

North Dome offers one of the most iconic perspectives of Half Dome—directly across Tenaya Canyon, at eye level. This rewarding summit hike travels through shaded old-growth forest before opening to expansive granite vistas along Yosemite’s northern rim. Along the return, you’ll also visit Yosemite’s only natural arch, adding an extra layer of scenery to an already exceptional hike.

• Distance: 9 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

While not a technical summit, Mono Pass Vista delivers some of the most expansive views in the park. With modest elevation gain, this high-country hike winds through subalpine meadows, wildflowers, and alpine lakes before opening to sweeping views of Mono Lake and the Eastern Sierra. Cooler temperatures, swimming opportunities, and relative solitude make this a standout midsummer adventure and a guide favorite

• Distance: 8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

Summit the second-highest peak in Yosemite National Park on this short but demanding high-alpine climb. Beginning near 10,000 feet at Tioga Pass, the route ascends through wildflower-filled meadows before rising above tree line to a 13,061-foot summit. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Mono Lake, the Owens Valley, and the rugged Eastern Sierra

• Distance: 6 miles
• Difficulty: Extremely Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

Standing at Yosemite’s geographic center, Mount Hoffmann offers 360-degree panoramic views of the High Country. This off-trail adventure crosses alpine terrain dotted with high-elevation lakes and abundant wildlife. From the summit, you’ll look down on both Half Dome and Clouds Rest while learning about the geology and history that shaped Yosemite’s rugged interior.

• Distance: 6 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking (Cross-Country)

This rarely traveled summit in the Hetch Hetchy region promises solitude and a true sense of exploration. The long, rugged route leads to a commanding summit overlooking the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, Wapama Falls, Pate Valley, and Yosemite’s remote High Country. A perfect choice for hikers seeking adventure beyond the park’s more popular corridors.

• Distance: 14 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking

Beginning at the iconic Tunnel View, this classic rim hike delivers one breathtaking viewpoint after another as it traces the southern edge of Yosemite Valley. The route builds momentum from the start, passing Artist Point, Dewey Point, and Crocker Point before reaching the dramatic overlook at Stanford Point. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping, uninterrupted views of Yosemite Valley framed by Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome—making this one of the best hikes in the park for iconic, postcard-worthy scenery. A true showcase of Yosemite’s grandeur, this strenuous adventure rewards steady effort with constant visual payoff.

• Distance: 10.5 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking or Snowshoeing (conditions dependent)

A hidden gem accessed via an unmarked trail, Devil’s Dance Floor is a cross-country adventure through burn scars and along Wildcat Creek. The route culminates on an expansive granite slab summit—spanning several football fields—with sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, the Merced River Canyon, and the Clark Range. A rare and rewarding winter-season experience.

• Distance: 6.5 miles
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Seasonal Format: Hiking or Snowshoeing

Participants should be comfortable hiking several miles over uneven terrain with sustained elevation gain. Routes range from moderate to extremely strenuous. Winter hikes may involve snowshoeing.

Summit hikes are generally recommended for guests ages 12 and older. Private tours may accommodate younger children if they are physically capable and comfortable with exposure, though some summits may not be suitable.

Yes! Hikes are offered year-round. Winter routes may require snowshoeing depending on conditions. Each hike is selected seasonally to provide the best experience.

Restrooms are only available at trailheads or designated park areas. There are no facilities along most summit routes. We will practice leave no trace principles when using the facili-trees.