Sentinel Dome Trail
A short forest and granite hike ending with a hands-on ascent to a 360-degree Sierra viewpoint.
Route overview
Sentinel Dome Trail in Sierra Nevada.
Sentinel Dome begins on a broad trail before crossing increasingly open granite. The final climb ascends the dome’s sloping granite surface and can require hands for balance. The summit is highly exposed to wind, sun and lightning, making weather judgment more important than the modest distance suggests.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Sierra Nevada
- Distance
- 3.2 km return
- Typical duration
- 1–2 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- Not published by official source
- Best season
- When Glacier Point Road is open and the dome is free of snow, ice and thunderstorms
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- Park entrance pass; no hiking permit
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Lightning, wet or icy granite, strong wind, altitude, limited shade and sunset darkness
Highlights
Yosemite National Park, Sentinel Dome, granite scramble, panoramic view, Glacier Point Road
Why find a buddy
A partner improves weather monitoring, balance support and safe descent after sunset.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.