Panorama Trail facts for kids
The Panorama Trail is a popular hiking trail in Yosemite National Park, California. It goes down the south side of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point all the way to Happy Isles. The trail is named "Panorama" because of the many amazing wide views you can see along the way, especially from a spot called Panorama Point.
Quick facts for kids Panorama Trail |
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| Length | 8.5 miles (13.7 km) one-way |
| Location | California, United States |
| Trailheads | Happy Isles trailhead, Yosemite Valley Glacier Point |
| Use | backpacking, hiking, trail running, trail riding |
| Elevation change | 3,200 feet (980 m) |
| Highest point | Glacier Point trailhead, 7,200 feet (2,200 m) |
| Lowest point | Happy Isles trailhead, 4,000 feet (1,200 m) |
| Difficulty | Moderate to strenuous |
| Months | Year-round |
| Sights | Glacier Point, Panorama Point, Illilouette Falls, Nevada Fall, Emerald Pool, Vernal Fall |
| Hazards | Snowmelt, icy slopes early season, altitude |
Contents
What is the Panorama Trail Like?
Starting Your Hike
The Panorama Trail begins at Glacier Point. This spot is easy to find near the Glacier Point Amphitheater. The trail follows the south wall of Yosemite Valley. It heads east towards Illilouette Falls.
Waterfalls and Views
After Illilouette Falls, the trail crosses Illilouette Creek. It then goes up a bit before heading down towards Nevada Falls. From Nevada Falls, the Panorama Trail joins another trail called the Mist Trail. It continues west along the Merced River. You will pass Vernal Falls before reaching the end at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley.
Where to Find Restrooms
It's good to know where to find restrooms on a long hike! You can find them at the Glacier Point start point. There are also restrooms along the trail above Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall. Another spot is at the Vernal Fall footbridge, just east of Emerald Pool.
Using the Shuttle Bus
A shuttle bus can take you from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point. This bus costs money to ride. It runs from June to October, when the Glacier Point Road is open. The bus leaves Yosemite Lodge at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The ride to Glacier Point takes a little over an hour. Remember, there is no regular shuttle bus service that goes down from Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley.
Other Hikes Nearby
High Sierra Camps
If you love hiking, the High Sierra Camps offer a loop trail through the Yosemite backcountry. These camps have tent cabins where you can stay overnight. They are spaced about one day's hike apart. You need to make reservations to stay at these camps.
Four Mile Trail
Another trail, the Four Mile Trail, also starts at Glacier Point. This means you have a choice of trails to explore from this popular viewpoint!
