Half Dome, Yosemite CA
• 5-star hike
• 15.5 mile out-and-back
• Hard difficulty | Gain 4,800 ft (Peak 8,836 ft)
• Yosemite, CA | Yosemite National Park
• Driving Directions: Trailhead
Peering into the valley below from the summit of Half Dome.
It's difficult to approach Yosemite's Half Dome without a sense of trepidation. Perhaps it's the scale of the fifteen-and-a-half mile hike and 4,800ft elevation gain. Perhaps it's a fear of heights and worry over the final ascent of the cables, almost a mile above the valley floor. Alternatively, maybe it's just the dread of the Yosemite crowds compounded by the draw of Half Dome itself.
An early start is essential to mounting an attempt on Yosemite's crowning glory and sunrise is a good time to start. Remember to pack a flashlight as there's a good chance that you'll still be on the trail when darkness falls, and the return trail can't be tackled safely in the dark without one.
Advance permits are required for this hike. See the official link below.
Half Dome Route Half Dome Route 5★15.5 mi, Out & Back, Hard, Gain 4,800 ft
Trailspotting Map at AllTrails
This hike begins at the parking lot opposite Upper Pines Campground and follows the Merced River up into the hills behind Half Dome. Climbing a combination of steps and switchbacks lead you up the side of Vernal Falls and then Nevada Falls - even in autumn months you'll struggle to find these waterfalls dry. From here the trail weaves upward through pine forest until it opens up toward the final part of the hike with awesome views of the valley.
The final ascent of Half Dome looks crazy, almost vertical, and should be treated with the utmost respect and caution. This steep section of trail up smooth granite approaches angles of 45 degrees and is only made possible by the cable and post system erected by the park. What's more, the final climb to the summit has claimed lives, even those of experienced hikers, and even in perfect weather.
Vernal Fall from the Mist Trail.
You can make it to the top of the cables safely by taking a reasonable amount of precaution. Research this hike fully, understand the dangers and wear the right footwear (grip is essential). The most risk averse may want to consider a carabiner/tether arrangement to secure themselves to the cable, which we saw some folks using.
One tip we have is to time a summer night-time hike of Half Dome under a full moon, which can be a great opportunity for an uncrowded, comfortable hike up the mountain. Most of which can be traversed without headlamps. We were able to climb the final cable ascent with few other people around us, to experience sunrise from the summit as Half Dome cast its giant shadow over the valley.
Deserted cables are a rare sight - this was at 7am after a moonlight hike.
Tangents:
• Trail Links: Official, Public Map at AllTrails
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article
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