Taft Point Hike – FAQS

Taft Point Hike – everything you need to know before you go!

We have done the Taft Point hike countless times, and we don’t get sick of it. Okay, well, maybe we get sick of the 2 hours drive back to Fresno, but besides that, I don’t think that viewpoint will ever get old!

We often take couples up there for engagement sessions and elopements, and there is a reason why it’s such a famous spot for that! But there are a few things you should know before going, so here are some Taft Point Hike FAQ’s and answers!

Where is Taft Point?

Taft Point is a viewpoint located at the famous Yosemite National Park! To get to the Taft Point hike you have to drive up Glacier Point Road, and there will be a parking lot and signs to where the trailhead starts. To make things a little easier, you can put “Taft Point Trailhead” on Google Maps and it will take you to the exact spot!

How hard is the hike?

Surprisingly not hard. It’s only 2.2 miles round trip! It’s a bit steep on the way back, but not bad! SUPER worth it considering what you get to see when you’re at the top!

What’s the best time of the year to go there?

Whenever it’s opened, lol! Glacier Point Road closes every winter. As soon as the first snowfall happens, late November/ early December, the park closes the road and re-opens whenever the snow is all melted. It changes every year, but I would say anywhere from May until June is when they will open it. The hike is very pleasant in the summer, but I would recommend going on a weekday, it gets really crowded on weekends.

Should I go for sunset?

Yes, absolutely. But only if you’re comfortable hiking back in the dark and/or have someone that knows the way very well. It’s one of the most amazing places to watch the sunset but, once the sun goes down, it gets dark REAL fast! Bring headlamps, and maybe a little speaker to play soft music while you hike back (keeps the bears away).

Could I get lost?

Yes. Even though the path is very well marked it gets dark very quickly, and I mean DARK. So just prepare yourself before you decide to go – download the trail on phone apps like “AllTrails”, bring headlamps, and avoid going by yourself.

Is it dangerous?

The hike itself isn’t. Once you get up there, it can be. There are no rails or fences, it’s nature as it is, and it’s beautiful because of that. So all you have to do is respect it, don’t stand too close to the edge, just admire the view from a safe distance and have a great time!

Should I take engagement pictures/ elope there?

Well… YES! If this kind of adventure resonates with you and your partner, let’s do it! If hiking in beautiful clothes, getting that dress you love a little dirty, watching the sunset overlooking the Yosemite Valley sounds like something you two would love to do, then let’s make it happen!!!

Check out this epic Full-day Elopement at Yosemite to get you inspired and ready to go!

For more information, head over to Yosemite’s official website.

Don’t go yet, check out:

• Complete Guide to Elope in Yosemite
• Tips for your Taft Point Session
• Anniversary Photoshoot at Taft Point