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Four Mile Trail, Yosemite National Park

4.9

#5 of 17 in Trails in Yosemite National Park

Hiking Trail · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park

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Climb an elevation of 1,000 m (3,200 feet) to experience commanding views of some of Yosemite's most iconic features, on Four Mile Trail. The modern trail within Yosemite National Park follows the path of a 19th century toll trail, from which it takes its name (though today it covers a distance closer to five miles). The trail offers excellent views of Yosemite Valley and Yosemite Falls, as well as the park's icons, El Capitan and Half Dome. A side trail along the way takes you to Union Point, which offesr more views of the valley. The steep, partially paved path presents a strenuous challenge--experts recommend starting early in the day because there's not much shade on top, and the round trip can take six to eight hours. Be aware that the trail can close after heavy snowfall. Take the guesswork out of planning a Yosemite National Park vacation by using our trip itinerary maker.

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Tours to Four Mile Trail

FROM $1,228 BOOK WITH VIATOR Jeep 4 X 4 Yosemite Park Tour with Hotel Pickup Jeep 4 X 4 Yosemite Park Tour with Hotel Pickup

4.8

Duration: 8 hours

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4.7

Duration: 8 hours

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FROM $1,279 BOOK WITH VIATOR 2 Days Private Tour and Hike in Yosemite National Park 2 Days Private Tour and Hike in Yosemite National Park

5.0

Duration: 2 days

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Four Mile Trail reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

214 reviews

Google

5.0

By Pascal_irl

Hiked this morning at sunrise before the crowd after reading David S. review. 2hrs 20 not pushing hard at all (and carrying 10kg pack for conditioning) it’s easily doable. Two young guys passed me...

Hiked this morning at sunrise before the crowd after reading David S. review. 2hrs 20 not pushing hard at all (and carrying 10kg pack for conditioning) it’s easily doable. Two young guys passed me... more »
By davidsD1624ZV

An amazing hike! I am 60 years old, in good shape for my age, and my 26 year old daughter and I hiked to the top in under 2 1/2 hours! I am not good with heights but the trail, although high, did not.... more

An amazing hike! I am 60 years old, in good shape for my age, and my 26 year old daughter and I hiked to the top in under 2 1/2 hours! I am not good with heights but the trail, although high, did not.... more »
By Ash_vp27

We only spent 1 day in Yosemite Park and this was our first hike. While it's says '4 miles' it is actually closer to 5 miles to get to the summit at Glacier Point, an elevation climb of 3,200...

We only spent 1 day in Yosemite Park and this was our first hike. While it's says '4 miles' it is actually closer to 5 miles to get to the summit at Glacier Point, an elevation climb of 3,200... more »

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By Maddy T

Bring a bug net! At least if you are going in summer. Trekking poles were also a life saver. This trail definitely deserves the “strenuous” accolade, but it is certainly doable! Try to go early to avoid the direct sun on the way down.

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By Eva A

Difficult when going upstairs. Takes 2 hours (sporty people) - 3 hours (slow walkers) to go up. Providing beautiful views. Wide path, very safe. Just a few people (we got up very early to.prevent crowds however.the trail was nearly empty (July)

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By John Schless

I can’t put into words how breathtaking this hike was. We arrived for 07:30 to beat the crowds to park and to avoid too much sun (it’s July) took us just over 2 hours to reach the top (I would give it 3 with breaks). It is all up hill but wow is it worth it. Such a view. There is no transport down so we got to the top viewed half dome and surrounding (sunning) then headed down. It’s tough terrain but we maned in our new balance. There is a store and gift shop at the top. Well worth it. You’ll see El Capitan, 1/2 dome, Yosemite falls, Royal Arches and much more . Total time up and down for us (with a 30 min food a view stop at the top) was was 5 hours. In summer take plenty of water, a hat, sun cream, sun glasses and some snacks.

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By Alejandro Bencomo

Such a beautiful hike. They told us it is an strenuous hike but I think it is more like a moderate one, at least for european standards. We did it round trip in 6h. Just remember to bring enough water. We saw a rattle snake on the way up but don’t get discouraged, just be alert. Snakes normally don’t bite unless they feel threatened or if you step on them by mistake. There is a shop at the top where you can refill your water bottles, buy drinks, food and souvenirs.

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By Michael Hansen

This is a fantastic hike that goes through the heart of Yosemite Valley and offers some of the best photo spots in the park. You can start at the top of the trail by driving to Glacier Point and working your way down. But for the real experience you can start at the bottom at the base of El Capitan and walk five mile up and then back down. Round trip will take you several hours (between 6 and 10) and is best to set aside a full day.

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