Inspiration Point, Yosemite NP

Wawona Tunnel was blasted out of the rock in the 1930s to provide a direct route out of the valley. Not only does it provide convenience to motorists, but it also leaves behind the old overgrown Inspiration Point, which we can now explore in peace and quiet.

If you've seen this view of the valley for yourself then you'll know that you can't blame every car, bus and RV for stopping to admire it. But that certainly does mean a lot of people, which is precisely what we're going to try and get away from.

The trailhead for this short, narrow trail is located in the satellite parking lot, and immediately heads upwards and away from the crowds.

It can be difficult to get far on this trail since views like this can stop you in your tracks!

The single-track trail you're taking to Inspiration Point intersects with the old overgrown Wawona Road at this point. Pick up the trail on the other side of the road and continue, but make a note of your surroundings because you'll be returning to this point from a different direction.

You'll know you've reached your destination when you reach a large flat expanse. This is where the old Inspiration Point lookout used to be located many decades ago. Head to the right and you’ll find many little nooks and viewpoints from which to admire unobstructed views of the valley and Bridalveil Falls without a tour bus in sight (or ear-shot).

The shortest route back to the trail head is to re-trace your steps. However, we prefer a little variety and suggest taking our route to the West, which returns along the grade of the old road and returns to the intersection with the hiking trail. It gets overgrown at times, but shouldn't prove too difficult to negotiate.