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Sentinel Dome Trail

Mariposa County, California

5.0/5
based on 9 reviews

Details

Distance

2.15 miles

Elevation Gain

400 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Emily Noyd

Sentinel Dome is a short hike with excellent bird's eye views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and the entire Yosemite Valley.

One of the most popular places in Yosemite for sunset is Glacier Point, but by walking one mile from the trailhead, the crowds quickly dissipate. Sentinel Dome is great for all ages since the trail is short and not too steep. Park at the Sentinel Dome trailhead, about 3 miles from the end of Glacier Point Road. The trail is one mile, one-way. For the best timing, leave the trailhead at least one hour before sunset.

There's no camping allowed at Sentinel Dome or anywhere within 4 miles of Glacier Point. The one exception is during winter when Glacier Point Rd is unplowed, which converts it to a trail, and the "no camping zone" collapses a bit. A wilderness permit is required year-round for any wilderness area, including Sentinel Dome in winter. Learn more about winter backpacking to Sentinel Dome here: https://www.theoutbound.com/yo... Other than that, enjoy Sentinel for sunrise or sunset, just don't sleep there.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic

Sentinel Dome Trail Reviews

This is a great little hike, and if you're up for longer, do the loop to taft and back. Amazing 360 degree views from the top of the dome.

A great, short hike in Yosemite with awesome views. One of the best.

A short, quite easy trail — and yet so rewarding at the top! One of the best views of the valley!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Loop

Taft Point

Backpack to Clouds Rest from Glacier Point

Illilouette Falls in Yosemite National Park

Photograph Yosemite's Half Dome at Glacier Point

Stargaze and Photograph the Night Sky at Glacier Point