Valley View
While Tunnel View offers a classic Yosemite vista with Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame, Valley View provides a more intimate experience. It's closer to the river, and you can capture the reflections and the serene flow of the water. Tunnel View is great for wide-angle shots, while Valley View is perfect for those serene, reflective moments.
Photography Opportunities
Geologic Points of Interest: Valley View offers a stunning panorama of some of Yosemite's most iconic geological features. You'll see El Capitan standing tall on the left, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall on the right. The Merced River flows peacefully below, reflecting the grandeur of these natural wonders.
Golden Hour Magic: Golden hour at Valley View is like nature's own photo studio. The soft, warm light bathes the valley, creating long shadows and highlighting the textures of the granite formations. Sunset will cast a gorgeous orange light on El Capitan than has to be seen to be believed! Whether it's sunrise or sunset, the light is magical, and the reflections on the Merced River are simply stunning. Just remember to bring your tripod and a warm jacket—it gets chilly!
A quick heads up though, the parking lot is TINY, so make sure you’re there early to grab a spot!
Where to next?
Artist Point
Cooks Meadow
El Capitan Meadow
Ellery Lake Viewpoint
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
John Muir Trail to Nevada Fall
Lower Yosemite Falls
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Merced River
Mirror Lake
Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
Mono Lake - South Tufa Area
Olmsted Point
Pohono Bridge
Sentinel Bridge
Tahiti Bridge
Tuolomne Meadows
Tunnel View
Valley View