Olmsted Point

Olmsted Point is a roadside viewpoint on Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park, with a distinctive view of Half Dome from the east. From the granite slope, look across Tenaya Canyon toward Clouds Rest and the distant dome; Tenaya Lake lies to the east. Large boulders left by glaciers dot the rock. The main view is close to the parking area, but a short trail leads to a higher outlook. Bring binoculars to look for hikers on Half Dome’s cables.

Views from the granite slope

Olmsted Point sits along Tioga Road in Yosemite’s high country. Its position gives you a different look at Half Dome from the views seen from the Valley. Tenaya Canyon stretches below, Clouds Rest rises in the foreground, and Half Dome appears farther away. To the east, look for Tenaya Lake and its surrounding granite domes.

The granite slope is scattered with large erratic boulders carried here by glaciers and left behind as the ice melted. Informational panels and a bronze map at the viewpoint help identify the surrounding landscape.

Walk beyond the parking area

You can see the landscape from near the parking area, but a short trail leads farther across the granite to another outlook. The walk takes about five to ten minutes, depending on the route described, and gives you a closer look at the open views toward Clouds Rest and Half Dome.

If you bring binoculars or a spotting scope, look toward Half Dome’s cables for climbers. The viewpoint is also a place to watch the sunset over the surrounding mountains. Tioga Road is closed in winter, so check that it is open before setting out.