Hiking to North Dome in Yosemite Valley

Destinations West California Yosemite Valley

Hiking to North Dome in Yosemite Valley

Hiking to North Dome is an exceptional journey in Yosemite National Park that offers remarkable views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the Sierra Nevada landscape. This lesser-traveled trail is perfect for adventurers seeking a moderately challenging, scenic route away from the park’s more crowded paths. North Dome provides a front-row seat to Yosemite’s natural beauty, allowing visitors to experience a quieter, panoramic perspective of this iconic destination.

Adventure Guide to Hiking to North Dome

Trailhead: Porcupine Flat
The hike begins at Porcupine Flat Trailhead, located off Tioga Road. It is a 2-hour drive from Yosemite Valley, comprising an 8.8-mile round-trip journey. The trail combines wooded sections and open granite expanses, granting hikers diverse landscapes along the way. Porcupine Flat is well-marked, but quieter than Yosemite’s main trailheads, making it an inviting start for hikers.
Spectacular Views from North Dome
Once on the dome’s summit, hikers are rewarded with an unparalleled vantage point of Yosemite’s grandeur. Views of Half Dome, seemingly at eye level, dominate the horizon. To the north, marvel at the expanses of Tenaya Canyon and Clouds Rest. The smooth granite surface of North Dome contrasts with the towering cliffs surrounding Yosemite Valley, offering a unique terrain that’s picture-perfect for photography.
Indian Arch
On the way to North Dome, don’t miss the opportunity to detour slightly (about 0.3 miles) to view Indian Rock Arch, a rare natural granite arch in the park. It’s a geological marvel and makes for an excellent quick stop for photos and exploration.

Local Insights

The granite surface of North Dome can heat up during summer afternoons; plan to enjoy the sunrise or early morning light for cooler temperatures and striking views.
North Dome was formed by ice and water erosion over thousands of years, showcasing Yosemite’s linked geological history to glaciation.

Visitor Tips

Best time to visit: Late May to October, when Tioga Road is open and snow has melted.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat for shade.
Use Tioga Road’s Porcupine Flat pullout as a parking spot. From Yosemite Valley, expect a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Arrive early for parking availability.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Dave Sykes6 years ago

Fantastic, challenging, but incredibly rewarding hike from Porcupine Creek Trailhead through beautiful terrain and magnificent trees, followed by a descent from one dome and climb onto North Dome will reward you with some of the most magnificent views in the park!

Greg Barry3 years ago

Definitely worth the 4.5 mile hike from Porcupine Creek trailhead on Tioga Road. I've been camping and hiking in Yosemite for 35 years, and North Dome offers the best views of Half Dome in the park. We backpacked and stayed out near North Dome for 2 nights. The domes are quite exposed, so it can get windy at times. But because there are so few trees, it is a perfect stargazing location, with the Milky Way passing right over Half Dome and Glacier Point. And be sure to stop by Indian Rock (it's really an arch!) on the way!

David Riggleman4 years ago

It's a grueling hike from the valley coming up Yosemite Falls (over 5500 feet of elevation gain), but the views of Half Dome and the surrounding area are absolutely worth it and spectacular! And even better was once we got past the top of Upper Yosemite Falls, we barely saw anyone, having the whole trail and top of North Dome to ourselves. Make sure you bring plenty of water (I ended up going through around 4.5L) or a way to treat water (there are plenty of creeks along the way).

Florian rockstroha year ago

Great place, but prefer views from half dome and Yosemite viewpoint much more !

Jack Ambraw4 years ago

It's a long hike, nearly 9 miles, but relatively little elevation change compared to a lot of other mountain trails. Get there early to ensure a parking spot along Tioga Road. The trailhead is clearly marked at the beginning and it's an easy hike through the forest. The trail is not as clearly marked when you approach North Dome, but you can see where you need to go to reach the end point. Your effort will be rewarded with stunning views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. It doesn't get any better in Yosemite. Don't forget to take plenty of food, water, and sunscreen. We forgot the latter and I paid the price.

Hiking

Hiking to North Dome in Yosemite Valley