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Washburn Point, Yosemite National Park

4.9

#48 of 68 in Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Lookout · Landmark

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Take in the views of great Yosemite landscapes at Washburn Point. This lofty lookout sits on the road to Glacier Point, some 76 m (250 ft) above its more popular neighbor, offering a different perspective on Half Dome and stacked waterfalls spilling down the Merced River. You will need to tackle a short flight of stone steps to reach this perch. If you need restrooms or snacks, find them at Glacier Point. Note that this viewpoint closes seasonally due to snow, but can be visited on skies in the winter. Put Washburn Point on your schedule, and learn what else deserves a visit by using our Yosemite National Park visit planner.

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Tours to Washburn Point

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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FROM $1,268 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Hummer 4 X 4 Tour of Yosemite Including Hotel Pickup Private Hummer 4 X 4 Tour of Yosemite Including Hotel Pickup

4.7

Duration: 8 hours

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Washburn Point reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

20 reviews

Google

4.9

By John S

This would be a ten star rating if possible. The view was spectacular with Half Dome, Vernal Falls, and Nevada Falls all in the same shot. This viewpoint is possibly the best in all of Yosemite.

This would be a ten star rating if possible. The view was spectacular with Half Dome, Vernal Falls, and Nevada Falls all in the same shot. This viewpoint is possibly the best in all of Yosemite. more »
By mcuktravel

A less busy Glacier point offering more direct views of Nevada and Vernal falls and is surrounded by impressive trees. Stunning views!!

A less busy Glacier point offering more direct views of Nevada and Vernal falls and is surrounded by impressive trees. Stunning views!! more »
By ELKW

just a few minutes drive below the Glacier point, you will reach this point before reaching the Glacier point, and I already being attracted by the view here and took tons of pictures already, for...

just a few minutes drive below the Glacier point, you will reach this point before reaching the Glacier point, and I already being attracted by the view here and took tons of pictures already, for... more »

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Google

By Joseph Lee

It is awesome view. You can see half dome as well as several falls.

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By Vincent Jung

This is the only place I come too to find a peaceful moment to close my eyes and feel the breeze. While looking out over Yosemite valley..this one spot you can park take out a chair have an picnic under a tree..watch the sun rises if you get up here early enough too..

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By John P

It is not a hiking trail, just a vista point. But the view from here is second to none. You can see the Half Dome, Vernal fall and Nevada Fall, just as good as from Glacier Point.

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By Chien-Chang Chen

Here provides a great view to half dome and also all high Sierra Yosemite. In summer it’s more amazing when you see lots of snow left on those tall mountains. You can see lots of waterfall everywhere.

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By David Riggleman

If you want great views without any hiking, this is a great option! While I would probably choose Glacier Point if forced to choose between the two, Washburn Point can definitely hold it's own with great views of Half Dome, Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and even Illilouette Falls.

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