The Panorama Trail offers multiple routes to fantastic views in Yosemite!

This hike is long in its entirety, but because it has epic views nearly the entire hike, we think it can easily be shortened in two different ways if needed. First, you can drive up to Glacier Point and just stroll down the trail heading east along the valley rim and turn around at any point. A nice picnic spot and turn around for a shorter hike is Illilouette Falls.

Our favorite option, if you don’t mind some logistics, is to take a bus for a small fee from Yosemite Lodge up to Glacier Point. This option affords the ability to complete a one-way, downhill hike to the valley. (Please note, this bus is different from the free Yosemite Valley shuttle). We love this option because it winds around the east end of the valley giving wonderful views of Half Dome, beautiful rivers, and includes the iconic Mist Trail at the end. Don’t be fooled by the words “downhill hike” though. This second option is still challenging since there are some ups and downs, and going downhill can be a knee grinder. We would only recommend this hike for families with older kids, or parents accustomed to longer treks with their kids in a carrier.

If you're looking for a shorter hike, we recommend Sentinel Dome Hike, which has the best view in all of Yosemite.