No matter which way you hike the panorama, your perspective shifts.

It seems that the final tail of any journey always seems to drag on the longest, whether that is a hike, a long drive, or the final thirty minutes of The Return of the King. The last stretch feels like the longest section, but it has the best views along the whole trail. It sticks out above the valley, encouraging hikers to keep on moving, like a carrot on a stick. The forest here is regrowing, but for now the treeless mountain side allows you unobstructed views of Half Dome, Little Yosemite Valley, the Tuolumne Backcountry, and numerous High Sierra peaks.įor much of Panorama’s path, Glacier Point’s prominence sits high in the distance. All that persists now are great blankets of chest high Manzanita slowly reclaiming the land.

This portion of the Panorama Trail was burned up in a forest fire. Immediately, the trail starts heading uphill towards Glacier Point. Illilouette Creek along the Panorama TrailĪnyways, you may remember Illilouette Falls from earlier-a frontal view view features near the beginning of the Mist Trail. Otherwise, YOSAR may end up having to scrape you off the rocks below. Hanging out at the creek will be a welcome reprieve on a hot day, but be very aware that the waters immediately above waterfalls are incredibly dangerous. The trail dips down to Illilouette Creek, crossing a bridge just upstream of Illilouette Falls. A million great photo opportunities exist along the Panorama, along with cool viewpoints and rest spots just off the path. Starting from the top of Nevada Falls, the Panorama trail travels uphill, steadily gaining elevation. This path is five miles in length, packing in the beauty every step of the way. On July 7th, 2019, I hiked the Panorama Trail from end to end.

The Panorama Trail-From Nevada Falls to Glacier Point Nevada Falls Lose 2000 if opting to Trek the opposite direction. Elevation Change: Gain nearly 2000 feet if hiking from Nevada Falls to Glacier Point. Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous, in the loosest sense. Trailheads: Glacier Point, or Nevada Falls. New hikers will love it for it’s length, and its quasi-backcountry vibe, while experienced hikers may see it as an awesome linkup with nearby trails, such as the Four Mile Trail, or the Mist Trail. In all, the Panorama trail is suitable for most hikers. It’s a gentle hike, albeit with a few switchbacks to remind you that it means business. Half Dome, Royal Arches, a lot of waterfalls, ant sized tourists- all feature prominently along the Panorama. The Panorama Trail forms a horseshoe shaped arc as it traverses along the southeastern rim of the Valley. The Panorama Trail is a great way to get stellar views of Yosemite Valley. Unlike a magic carpet ride, you’re probably not going to have a genie along for the ride. You’re high up, moving quickly, and your journey may soon be the subject of a Disney Animated Feature Film. Hiking the Panorama Trail is kind of like flying a magic carpet over Yosemite Valley. Not to be confused with the fishier, carnivorous, and probably made up Piranha Trail, the Panorama Trail is a fun and scenic day hike located in Yosemite National Park. Panorama Point-A Particularly Picturesque Precipice.The Panorama Trail-From Nevada Falls to Glacier Point.Elevation Change: Gain nearly 2000 feet if hiking from Nevada Falls to Glacier Point.Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous, in the loosest sense.Trailheads: Glacier Point, or Nevada Falls.Hiking the Panorama Trail in Yosemite National Park.