Photo by Jonathan Murray
There’s truly no shortage of inspiring viewpoints in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite’s legendary granite peaks, serene meadows, and quiet forests have inspired some incredible art over many decades. Whether you create with paints, film, stamps, or your phone, pack up your creative tools for your next Yosemite adventure and recreate these iconic Yosemite photos for yourself.
Iconic Yosemite Vista: Glacier Point
“Half Dome from Glacier Point” by Ansel Adams
Glacier Point has some of the most photographed views of Yosemite, and Ansel Adams’ photography continues on as some of the most legendary images ever taken in the park. On your next Yosemite adventure, take the scenic drive up to Glacier Point and spend some time creating your own artwork or photos of Yosemite’s mountains from this iconic view point.
Want to learn more about Ansel Adams and his photographic legacy in Yosemite? Stop by the Ansel Adams Gallery located in Yosemite Valley.
Iconic Yosemite Inspiration: Chiura Obata
“Clouds, Upper Lyell Trail, Along Lyell Fork” by Chiura Obata, 1930
Courtesy of Yosemite National Park. Woodblock print, ink on paper. 
Chiura Obata created some of the most unique and iconic artistic images of Yosemite. In the 1920s, in the midst of the popularity of Ansel Adams’ photography, Chiura Obata visited Yosemite to sketch out the images that would later turn into his famous woodcut art pieces. His work encapsulated both the the iconic views of Yosemite classics like Half Dome, as well as atypical scenes of the park. This piece shows the area along Upper Lyell Trail, highlighting the clouds and trees along the Lyell Fork.
Learn more about Obata’s history and legacy during the donor supported Obata Art Weekend.
Iconic Yosemite Phenomenon: Horsetail Fall’s “Firefall” by Stephen Moehle
Thousands upon thousands of Yosemite visitors have photographed this unique and rare shot of Horsetail Fall. Each year, in mid-to late-February, the sun and water of the park align to create this unique view of what appears to be fire flowing out of Horsetail Fall. Horsetail Fall is a seasonal waterfall that only flows in the winter in Yosemite, and the direction of the sunset in late-February makes the flowing water appear to glow as if on fire. This unique shot portrays the beautiful and unique view that many Yosemite visitors seek every winter. If you’re curious about visiting Yosemite to see Horsetail Fall’s “Firefall,” read up on the history and conditions of what to expect.
Iconic Yosemite Screensaver: Tunnel View by Yiming Chen
If you’ve ever used a Mac before, you might recognize this colorful and beautiful view of Yosemite taken from the Tunnel View vista point, right at the entrance of the Yosemite Valley. When we talk to people visiting Yosemite for the first time, almost everyone exclaims that coming through Wawona Tunnel and getting your first look at the valley takes your breath away. When you come through the park’s south entrance, take some time at the Tunnel View vista point to capture your own version of this breathtaking scene. For your own safety, make sure to stay in the vista point area and not scamper into the road while photographing this iconic view point.
Iconic Yosemite Athletes: Climbers on El Capitan by Gabrielle Baldwin
Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic places for rock climbers. On your next visit to Yosemite, break out your binoculars or zoom lens and try to spot and capture the people all the way up on the walls of El Capitan. Sometimes it can be hard to see climbers during the day. As shown in Baldwin’s photograph, at dusk climber’s turn on their headlights, making it a little easier to spot the rock stars.
Come create with us in Yosemite National Park! For more inspiration, check out our art programs in Yosemite Valley’s Happy Isles Center. We offer classes for all experience levels in a variety of mediums. From paint and sips, afternoon painting classes en plein air, and backpacking art retreats, we’ve got plenty of experiences for you to see Yosemite in a new light and to have a cathartic and creative adventure. Book your art class or art retreat with us and start your adventure.
