Artist Point Trail

Artist Point Trail is a quiet 2.6-mile out-and-back hike that starts at the Tunnel View parking area and climbs to a rock ledge overlooking Yosemite Valley. Where Tunnel View delivers the same postcard panorama to a crowd of tour buses, this trail gets you an almost identical view of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall with far fewer people around. It's rated 4.8 out of 5 across 134 visitor reviews.

Trail Conditions

The climb starts steep, gaining elevation quickly through a series of switchbacks before leveling out. The tread is rocky in places, and hikers should expect a few fallen trees to step over or scramble around — nothing technical, but sturdy shoes make it easier. Reviewers describe the effort as moderate and manageable for most fitness levels, with the payoff coming once the trail flattens near the viewpoint.

Finding the Overlook

The trailhead sits at the left side of the Tunnel View parking lot on Wawona Road and shares its first half-mile with the Pohono Trail. There's no sign marking Artist Point itself, so watch for the junction with the old Wawona Road — the historic stagecoach route — and follow it rather than continuing straight on the Pohono Trail. The payoff is a rock ledge with an unobstructed view of the Valley's signature landmarks, and in spring some hikers report a small waterfall crossing the trail just beyond the point.