Half Dome

Half Dome

Hike Stats:

Length: 16 Miles Round Trip

Elevation Gain: 4,800 ft

Trailhead: 4,062 ft

Half Dome’s Elevation: 8,842 ft


Best time to visit: Late May to Early October.


What to bring: Sunscreen, Plenty of water, Hat, Water filter, Sunglasses.


Parking: Curry Village or the hiker’s parking lot. 


Restrooms: At the bus stop, across the bridge below Vernal Falls and above Nevada Falls.


Are dogs Allowed?: No :(

Half Dome

Description: This is the quintessential California hike. People from all of the world come to Yosemite National Park, to try this epic day hike. This hike is for the fittest hikers, so don’t even bother trying it if you haven’t been able to complete hikes like Mt. Tallac or Upper Yosemite Falls. The trail starts at the Happy Isles trailhead, stop 16 of the shuttle bus. After reaching the top of Vernal Falls the trail flattens for a while, but as soon as you cross the bridge over the merced river, the terrain steepens again. The approach to Nevada falls brings a series of rocky switchbacks, which should be approached with great care to avoid ankle injury. The top of Nevada Falls could be considered the halfway point, and is the perfect place to catch your breath and get used to the altitude change. I also consider this, one of the points in the trail where you will have to asses your abilities and stamina. If you know that you will not be able to continue four more miles, this would be a good (safe) turn around point. As you continue on the trail, passing little yosemite camp, you will start a very steep and excruciatingly long climb to the back of the Half Dome rock. The hike becomes relentless in the constant assault to the body, presenting you with more swithcbacks. In the mist of all this pain and exhaustion, Half Dome becomes visible. With the goal finally within reach, a jolt of fresh energy propels you all the way to the base of the cables. You may have heard about the infamous Half Dome cables, but nothing prepares you for the shock and fear experienced once you are in front of them. This is another point where you have to yet again evaluate your physical condition and asses the risks involved. If you gather the courage to continue up, you will be greeted with terrific views of  Yosemite Valley, and bragging rights for the rest of your life.