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Photographing Valley View

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, California

4.5/5
based on 6 reviews

Description

Added by Tiffany Nguyen

Photograph one of the most iconic views in Yosemite National Park. Top notch spot for catching the sunset. Be sure to check the weather report to see when the sun sets and for clear skies.

Valley View is a must stop viewpoint in Yosemite National Park. Most people visit Valley View on their way out of the park as it is the last stop, located along the one-way Northside Drive. Look for a small parking area to your left just before Pohono Bridge. There are only about a dozen parking spots, but people come and go so often that finding a spot shouldn’t be a problem.

The second you step out of your car you will see why Valley View has the reputation for being one of the most jaw-dropping viewpoints in all of Yosemite. Although there’s not much ground to explore, walk around to find the best view of the Merced River in the foreground and, in the background, El Capitan to your left and the twin Cathedral Rocks and Spires and Bridalveil Falls to your right.

Be sure to bring bug spray as there are many mosquitoes by the river. Check when the sun sets to get that perfect shot over the valley. And for your night shot, check when the Milky Way will be best seen in the sky.

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Features

Photography
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
River
Scenic

Photographing Valley View Reviews

Perhaps the most iconic valley ever photographed, it's hard to put into words the feeling you get in Yosemite Valley. Try to go before Summer to attempt to beat the crowds! And also try to work in the huge fallen tree into your foreground 👍

Worth the stop for sure! Beautiful views -- a great place to photograph.

Amazing view that you should definitely stop and check out before leaving the park. There's a small parking lot on the left side of Northside Dr. just before you exit the park or loop back onto Southside Dr.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Hike to Bridalveil Fall

Dewey Point via Tunnel View

Hike to Inspiration Point in Yosemite NP

Hike from Tunnel View to Glacier Point

Hike to Artist Point in Yosemite National Park

Photograph Yosemite's Tunnel View