Hike to Inspiration Point in Yosemite NP

Inspiration Point is a granite slab located on the mountainside above Tunnel View. Hiking to this scenic point will provide you with the same views you would get from Tunnel View with less people around. Hiking this trail can also take you to different parts of Yosemite if you're so inclined (Bridalveil Falls, Dewey Point, Taft Point, etc - just remember your wilderness permit).

To get to the trailhead, you'll want to head towards Tunnel View. There are two sets of parking lots here. The trailhead can be found leading upwards to the mountainside away from Yosemite Valley, so parking at the southern parking lot will be better.

Follow the trail up the mountain for 0.6 miles (usually there is a lot of run off covering the trail, so make sure you wear waterproof boots and wool socks). You'll encounter a fork in the trail, but there is proper signage and you'll want to continue following the trail towards up the mountain towards Inspiration point. Hike another 0.6 miles until you encounter a clearing facing the valley. The scenic point is not marked since the trail continues, but you'll know it's Inspiration point because the tree-line will clear and you'll be have clear views of El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls.

Enjoy the breathtaking views then come back the way you came or proceed into Yosemite's wilderness.