If you are an advanced cross-country skier, you could do the entire 21 miles in one day. Otherwise, plan to stay overnight near Glacier Point. There are two options for overnighting.

One option is to stay at the Glacier Point Ski Hut. In the winter, the Glacier Point visitor center is converted into a staffed, cozy winter hut with food provided. Reservations are required.

The other option is to snow camp around Glacier Point. No reservations are needed, but a wilderness permit (obtainable from the Badger Pass Ranger Station) is required. Of course, this option requires proper snow camping equipment and experience. This is the option that we chose.

The trail starts at Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area (formerly known as Badger Pass Ski Area). There is an area in the back of the parking lot that is designated for overnight parking. Tire chains/cables may be required in winter.

If snow camping, you must bring your own food, stove and bear canister (yes, even in winter, although above certain elevations, Yosemite does allow food hanging in the winter). Water must be obtained through melting snow, so be sure to bring extra fuel. Also, if the temperature is low enough, canister stoves will not work, and white gas or inverted canister stoves are required.

The trail can be done on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Rentals are available at the cross country center. Since the trail is groomed and the grade is gentle and rolling, cross-country skis are sufficient.

The trail to Glacier Point is long, but very easy to follow in good conditions. It is a groomed cross-country ski track the entire way. It should generally take 4-5 hours one way. In snowy conditions however, trail-breaking may be required, which will significantly slow down the pace.

There is nothing very steep, but there are some sections of sustained descent. Ensure that you are comfortable with braking or taking off the skis to walk.

While the scenery is not very interesting in the beginning, after 6 miles, you come to a great viewpoint of the Clark Range, which also makes for a good lunch spot. At the 9 mile mark, the long and windy descent to Glacier Point begins. You can also stop at Washburn Point, which has a great view of Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada falls. Eventually, after coming around a corner, you’ll find Half Dome looming right in front of you.

One more turn and you’ve arrived at the parking lot. From there, you can find anywhere that’s off of the trail to set up camp. There are 3-4 areas where you can set up camp with direct views of Half Dome.

Return the way you came!