Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park

Why: From Glacier Point, you have unparalleled views of Half Dome, about 1,600 feet above, and Yosemite Valley, 3,200 feet below. What: Glacier Point, accessible only in warmer months, feels like the roof of the Earth. Though there’s often a crowd jostling for position when the light is right at prime spots, there’s plenty of room for picnics. If you bring dinner (and a few layers of clothes) you can watch the stars come out. If you want to dodge crowds and enjoy a less familiar view, head a mile south on Glacier Point Road to Washburn Point. Info: Glacier Point, www.lat

.ms/glacierpoint, is an hour drive from Yosemite Valley. Park admission is $30 per car for seven days. — CHRISTOPHER

REYNOLDS