Easy access to unique views of the classic Stoneman Bridge and iconic Half Dome, surrounded by photogenic reflections in the Merced River.
This location turned out to be one of our favorite unplanned stops in the Yosemite Valley to photograph and explore.
Stoneman Bridge was constructed in 1933 and spans 72 feet long. The Merced River flows under this classic stone bridge providing very photogenic reflections, with Half Dome in the background. We explored the bridge in the fall season and the leaves on the trees surrounding this area were vibrant. This is a local favorite and a quiet destination in a very popular park.
The bridge can be found on Northside Drive. We parked along Southside Drive (the closest cross street to the south) and walked the .2 miles through the trees until we came to the Merced River with the bridge to the east. You can also easily walk up to Northside Drive, along the sidewalk, to get to the bridge itself.
There's a small area of land/beach to the west of the bridge that you can walk out to. Giving you a place to take photos, have lunch, take in the views, explore and relax.