Inspiration Point Trail

Distance: 2.3 miles roundtrip 

Time: 2-3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult

Starting Point: Wawona Tunnel (Tunnel View) parking lot

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TRAIL NOTES

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The start of the trail is a bit tricky to find. Park at the Tunnel View parking lot (preferably on the south side) and look for the trail start. We found it towards the back of the parking lot but it seemed there were several ways to enter. 

The start of the trail is a bit tricky to find. Park at the Tunnel View parking lot (preferably on the south side) and look for the trail start. We found it towards the back of the parking lot but it seemed there were several ways to enter. 

With almost 1,000 feet of elevation gain, and rocky terrain, the trail is steep for most of the ascent. Luckily the distance isn't too great, but you will want to stop to catch your breath and check out the views along the way.

With almost 1,000 feet of elevation gain, and rocky terrain, the trail is steep for most of the ascent. Luckily the distance isn't too great, but you will want to stop to catch your breath and check out the views along the way.

Imagine stagecoaches filled with curious travelers from the late 1800s as they disembarked after a long journey to this, the end point of Old Wawona Road. No car or stagecoach has entered this area since 1937. This view is from the trail, looking to

Imagine stagecoaches filled with curious travelers from the late 1800s as they disembarked after a long journey to this, the end point of Old Wawona Road. No car or stagecoach has entered this area since 1937. This view is from the trail, looking to the right. To find the viewpoint, go to the right of the circle and descend to a granite shelf. 

When you find the granite shelf, this is the view that will greet you. While essentially the same as Tunnel View, it's framed by beautiful trees and allows you to soak in Yosemite's grandeur without the crowds and selfie sticks. There are plenty of

When you find the granite shelf, this is the view that will greet you. While essentially the same as Tunnel View, it's framed by beautiful trees and allows you to soak in Yosemite's grandeur without the crowds and selfie sticks. There are plenty of spots to relax and break out snacks or a picnic lunch.

If you're up for more adventure (and have the time), continue up the Pohono Trail for another 3 miles to reach Old Inspiration Point, where Yosemite Valley was first sighted in 1851. Otherwise, return via the same trail to reach the starting point a

If you're up for more adventure (and have the time), continue up the Pohono Trail for another 3 miles to reach Old Inspiration Point, where Yosemite Valley was first sighted in 1851. Otherwise, return via the same trail to reach the starting point at Wawona Tunnel.

CURRENT WEATHER

YOSEMITE VALLEY WEATHER

To save this hike and our other recommended hikes in Yosemite National Park, visit our curated list on AllTrails, where you can learn about other trails in the park and create your own lists to reference through their mobile app.