Glacier Point Moonrise

Glacier Point & Sentinel Trail are world famous for their sunset views. They are less known for the amazing views of the full moon rise over Half Dome. This hike will deliver both!
Come take a mildly moderate 2.6 miles out-and-back trail from Glacier Point parking lot to Sentinel Dome in Yosemite National Park. We will start from the Glacier Point parking lot, take the Pohono Trail to the Sentinel Dome Trail, get some amazing photos at the top of Sentinel Dome, then trace our route back to Glacier Point. We will meet at the Amphitheater to watch the full moon rise over Half Dome. On this date, sunset should occur by 8:23pm, the full moon rise should start by 8:44pm.
**Cell service can be spotty on the trail, so read all of this information and print for easy reference******

Generally considered a moderate route, the hike up Sentinel Dome takes an average of 1.5 hours to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, and running. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Per AllTrails, the route from the Sentinel Trail Trailhead to Glacier Point and back, is 5.2 miles. We will be cutting this route in half by starting from Glacier Point parking lot, so we will be completing approximately 2.6 miles.
The elevation at Glacier Point parking is 7048 ft; Sentinel Dome is 8133 ft. Expect to climb at least 1081 ft over the course of this hike, if you choose to go to Sentinel Dome.
The views are stunning! There is lots of shade along the trail, although there are a few areas that are exposed to the sun. Temperatures are generally lower than the Central Valley and drop quickly after sunset. There tend to be a lot of people on this trail in the evening, as it is a sunset destination.
Directions*******:*** Glacier Point parking lot is located 97 miles north east of Fresno via Highway 41. Take the Hwy 41 entrance into Yosemite National Park, pass the village of Wawona, take a right onto Glacier Point Road. Parking is approximately 16 miles, at the end of Glacier Point Road.
Address: Glacier Point Parking Lot, Yosemite NP, 95389.
**https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/glacierpoint.htm**
There is a $35 entrance fee, per car, to get into the park.
MEETING: Walmart parking lot, just east of the fuel station, on Cesar Chavez Blvd (formerly Kings Canyon Blvd). 5111 E Cesar Chavez Blvd., Fresno, CA
2:00pm: Meet up at the Walmart parking lot on Kings Canyon & Peach, just east of the fuel station.
2:15pm: Leave Walmart parking lot at 2:15pm sharp.
5:15pm: meet up at Glacier Point parking lot. There is a vault toilet in the parking lot.
We will plan a brisk hike, but taking plenty of time for photo opportunities. When we return to Glacier Point, we will take time for photos and exploration of the Glacier Point area, as well. There is a gift shop and snack stand at Glacier Point, but it will likely be closed by the time we get there. Plan to bring your own snacks, dinner and drinks. Leave by 11:00pm at the latest.
DIFFICULTY: Rated as moderate. Anyone who wants an easy hike is welcome to join us and explore Glacier Point while the group completes the Sentinel Dome hike.
WHO CAN GO: Read the description carefully. You are responsible for your own decisions on ability to hike these trails.
SUGGESTED GEAR/SUPPLIES: As always, dress in layers, bring a hat and warm clothing. The weather in June can vary from the low 40s to upper 70s. Bring water and snacks. Bring the ten-essentials. (Google REI ten-essentials). You may also like a small chair, blanket, or sit-upon for watching the moon rise. Suggested $15-20 to driver.
REMINDER: You are signing up for a social outing, not a guided tour. None of the organizers are experts or professional guides, and no hikers can expect to receive a professional level of intervention on our events. You are expected to understand the risks inherent in any outdoor activity in the wilderness and be prepared to mitigate them on your own behalf. This includes, hikes appropriate to your level of fitness and experience and communicate openly with the group you are with at all times. Your RSVP is your agreement that you are participating at your own risk and hold harmless all members of the group including the organizers.
NO SHOWS: Remember to keep your reservation up-to-date so you don’t get marked as a no-show. It’s polite to remove yourself from the Going list so we don’t wait for you.
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS: Can be addressed in the comments. I, or someone else in the know, will answer you. Or, text Catherine at (559) 840-6436.