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Delight in a leisurely stroll onto Sentinel Bridge and gain an astounding view of Half Dome, especially during the alpenglow, when a reddish-orange glow is brought on by the setting sun. Views of the Merced River, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls through Cook's Meadow, are just a few of the benefits of parking here. Half Dome The profile of Half Dome has become a recognizable symbol of Yosemite. Millions of years ago, the granite block of Half Dome was larger, but there was never a matching other half. Passing glaciers undercut the base, and slabs of rock fell away, leaving a sheer face. Merced River The Merced River is a National Wild and Scenic River. Its waters originate in the melting snow of Yosemite's high country in the southeastern portion of the park. The river plunges over Nevada and Vernal Falls, then meanders across the flat Yosemite Valley. It continues its journey down the Merced River Canyon and spills into the San Joaquin Valley. Early Spanish explorers named the Merced River for Our Lady of Mercy. Hours : Year-round Getting Here : Located on Sentinel Drive, just over the Sentinel Bridge, and before Yosemite Village Day Use Parking. Rules & Regulations : Sleeping in your car or RV overnight in a parking lot or along the side of the road is not allowed. You may store food inside your car (out of sight, with windows completely closed) only during daylight hours. Empty your car of all food, drinks, coolers, toiletries, and trash after dark. Even an empty candy bar wrapper is enough temptation to entice a bear to break into your car. Vehicles containing food after dark may be impounded and/or cited. Accessibility : There are designated accessible parking spaces available.