The Sentinal Dome hike offers everything that's great about Yosemite National Park in an easy 2.2-mile package. You get to hike on the iconic trails of the Sierras, you get to climb a big granite dome, and you get the best panoramic views of all the attractions in the park. Even if you're not an experienced hiker, you need to put this trail on your list, it's worth it.
- Hike Video & Turn-by-Turn Directions
- How to Get to the Sentinel Dome Trailhead
- Planning Your Hike
If there are thunderstorms or lightning, do not attempt this hike. The domes frequently get struck by lightning.
Where is Sentinel Dome?
The trailhead for Sentinel Dome is on Glacier Point Road, which is closed in the winter. Check the park website for the status of any road closures.
Use this trailhead address:
Taft Point Trailhead, Glacier Point Road, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
The trailhead is about 6 miles after you turn-off onto Glacier Point Road, and the parking lot is on the left-hand side of the road. There is also parking along Glacier Point Road if the lot is full. The trailhead is about 2 miles before the end of the road at Glacier Point.
Gear for the Hike
- This is a pretty straightforward and short hike. Ideally you have light hiking gear, but you can also get away with fitness clothes or even casual wear. Bring 0.5L of water and of course, a camera.
- The hike is great to do at sunset or on a full moon. If you go at sunset, bring a headlamp because it will be dark on the way down.
- If you want snacks or supplies, head up Glacier Point Road for a few minutes to Glacier Point which has gift shops, snacks, etc.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
Sentinel Dome Trail Maps
The trail to Sentinel Dome is easy to follow and sees hundreds of hikers each day. There are some short sections that go over granite and are marked with cairns (small stacks of stone).
How Will You Navigate?
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3d Map
Sentinel Dome Hike Directions
Use common sense and don't go too close to the edges. If you see thunderstorm clouds building in the distance, it's a good time to start heading back down to your car.
From here you just head back down the way you came up, and that's the hike!
Need More Info?
- Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
- When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.
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Hi, I'm Cris Hazzard, aka Hiking Guy, a professional outdoors guide, hiking expert, and author based in Southern California. I created this website to share all the great hikes I do with everyone else out there. This site is different because it gives detailed directions that even the beginning hiker can follow. I also share what hiking gear works and doesn't so you don't waste money. I don't do sponsored or promoted content; I share only the gear recommendations, hikes, and tips that I would with my family and friends. If you like the website and YouTube channel, please support these free guides (I couldn't do it without folks like you!). You can stay up to date with my new guides by following me on YouTube, Instagram, or by subscribing to my monthly newsletter.