Helen Keller- US Blind and Deaf Educator (1880-1968)
Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and over 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome is a Yosemite icon and a great challenge to many hikers. Although it was originally thought to be inaccessible, George Anderson reached the summit in 1875, in the process laying the predecessor to today's cable. Half Dome's missing half is thought to have fallen off when the Ice Age glaciers passed through.
The Half Dome hike is approximately 17 miles round trip. The hike to Half Dome can take anywhere from 10-12 hours; some take longer. This endurance hike is not for you if you're out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome. Most would say the reward is worth the effort. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.
Today, thousands of people reach the summit each year. For most, it is an exciting, arduous hike; for a few, it becomes more of an adventure than they wanted. While there is nothing you can do to guarantee your safety, below you will find some tips to reduce your risk and have a safer, more enjoyable hike.
To relax and refresh before and after your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome, stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite
Recommended preparation for the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Being in shape is highly recommended for this long, difficult hike. Start by taking power walks daily, going farther each day. Working on a stair stepper is helpful since you will be climbing a large number of steep rock steps. Nordic track is also good for the endurance of the long haul. Use arm weights to strengthen the muscles that will be used to pull yourself on the cables. The cables at some points are at a 45° angle. You are almost pulling yourself up the side of Half Dome with the cables.
It is recommended that you become acclimated to the higher altitude if you are from lower than 4,000 feet. The air is thinner and harder to breathe. Starting out with smaller hikes at the 4,000 ' altitude will be helpful.
Things to take with you to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:
1. Water-
One of the easiest ways to ensure a safe, enjoyable hike is to be sure to have plenty of water. Weather conditions and personal preference affect the amount of water you need, but suggested minimum amounts per person are:
1 gallon (4 liters) if hiking to the top of Half Dome
2 quarts (2 liters) if hiking only to the top of Nevada Fall
1 quart (1 liter) if hiking only to the top of Vernal Fall
The only treated water on the trail is available (summer only) at a drinking fountain at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (less than a mile from the trailhead). Merced River water is available up to Little Yosemite Valley, however you should treat this water by boiling, using iodine, or using a giardia-rated water filter. Drinking untreated river water may cause significant illness.
You can carry the water in a large canteen to wear over your shoulder (pre-frozen the night before so you can have a cool drink).
2. Food- (high energy, light weight), check at sporting good stores for examples(trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit, raisins, cheese, crackers, Lunchables... pack lightly).
3. Gloves- (leather or rawhide, not winter type), to protect your hands on the cables. However, if you bring your gloves up, pack them out. Hundreds of pounds of rotting gloves otherwise accumulate.
4. Socks- (to put on after soaking feet in water on the way down from Half Dome).
5. Mole skin- (to put on sore spots on toes, precut or bring pocket knife).
6. Kleenex or toilet paper- Flush toilets are available at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (below Vernal Fall). Composting toilets are available near Emerald Pool (above Vernal Fall), near the top of Nevada Fall, and in Little Yosemite Valley.
At any other location, you are required to bury any solid human waste at least six inches (15 cm) deep and at least 100 feet (30 m) from water or trails. Pack out toilet paper.
7. Plastic bag that contains: Band-Aids, Neosporin, pain reliever, Dramamine.
8. Pocket knife.
9. Bandanna- (nice to wet in streams along the way to wet the face and tie around your neck).
10. Sunscreen- (apply frequently since you will be perspiring often).
11. Bug repellent- (mosquitoes are out in early day and evening, pesky small flies too).
12. Hat- (cover over the back of neck is good, sun will be on your back most of the way).
13. Back pack or waist pack- (you could use two waist packs, one in the front - other in the back).
14. Hiking boots- Another easy way to make your hike enjoyable is to have well broken-in boots with good ankle support and good traction. Some of the most common injuries Half Dome hikers suffer are blisters and ankle injuries; good footwear is the best way to prevent these problems. Tennis shoes are slippery on rocks.
15. Light weight wind breaker- The summit is typically 15°F (8°C) to 20°F (11°C) cooler than Yosemite Valley and windy conditions are common. Be prepared for cool temperatures and rain showers.
16. Small Flashlight- (hike may take you longer than expected). If you plan on hiking during the day, it's smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For instance, if you haven't reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. Check for sunrise and sunset times before you hike. Regardless, each person should carry a flashlight or headlamp with good batteries (hikers commonly struggle down the trail after dark because they don't have a flashlight).
17. Camera- (put around neck or in backpack while going up the cables). If while climbing the cables your camera slips from your hands as you are clicking that fantastic shot of the eagle swooping overhead...let it fall. Several people have fallen as they grab for their falling cameras.
18. Topo map- Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them.
19. Silver emergency blanket.
20. Poncho- (small inexpensive disposable one), the trail leading to Vernal Fall is called the mist trail!!!
21. Money- to get ice cream at Curry Village at end of hike.
Where to start the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Most people begin the hike from Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16), which is about a half-mile from the trail head parking lot or about 3/4 of a mile from Curry Village (parking available).
When to start your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Early as possible! You will need to give yourselves 10-12 hours to complete this very difficult hike. The shuttle buses start running at 7 am.
Be warned there is an increase in crowding and congestion on Saturdays and holiday weekends on Half Dome. Most visitors arriving at the cables during these periods will experience slow access to the summit, extended exposure to potentially uncomfortable conditions, and an increased likelihood of irresponsible behavior due to frustration with conditions. We strongly recommend planning your Half Dome visit for days other than Saturdays or holiday weekends.
Time of year to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:
NEVER HIKE HALF DOME IN A THUNDER STORM. Lightning may strike Yosemite's Half Dome at any time. Check the weather forecast before your hike and try to reach the summit early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If a storm appears nearby, do not continue to the summit and, if in the summit area, leave the area (while still using caution when descending the cables and steps).
Late May the cables are usually put up at Half Dome. The cables are usually taken down in late September early October. The weather is a factor when going up the cables. The best time to hike the trail is late June. The weather is still cool, daylight is longest and crowds are usually less. Depending on the weather, if a storm is in the forecast, do not attempt to hike the trail.
More helpful information:
The Half Dome hike is approximately 17 miles round trip. The hike to Half Dome can take anywhere from 10-12 hours; some take longer. This endurance hike is not for you if you're out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome. Most would say the reward is worth the effort. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.
Today, thousands of people reach the summit each year. For most, it is an exciting, arduous hike; for a few, it becomes more of an adventure than they wanted. While there is nothing you can do to guarantee your safety, below you will find some tips to reduce your risk and have a safer, more enjoyable hike.
To relax and refresh before and after your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome, stay at A Bed of Roses Bed and Breakfast or Sugar Pine Cabin at Yosemite
Recommended preparation for the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Being in shape is highly recommended for this long, difficult hike. Start by taking power walks daily, going farther each day. Working on a stair stepper is helpful since you will be climbing a large number of steep rock steps. Nordic track is also good for the endurance of the long haul. Use arm weights to strengthen the muscles that will be used to pull yourself on the cables. The cables at some points are at a 45° angle. You are almost pulling yourself up the side of Half Dome with the cables.
It is recommended that you become acclimated to the higher altitude if you are from lower than 4,000 feet. The air is thinner and harder to breathe. Starting out with smaller hikes at the 4,000 ' altitude will be helpful.
Things to take with you to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:
1. Water-
One of the easiest ways to ensure a safe, enjoyable hike is to be sure to have plenty of water. Weather conditions and personal preference affect the amount of water you need, but suggested minimum amounts per person are:
1 gallon (4 liters) if hiking to the top of Half Dome
2 quarts (2 liters) if hiking only to the top of Nevada Fall
1 quart (1 liter) if hiking only to the top of Vernal Fall
The only treated water on the trail is available (summer only) at a drinking fountain at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (less than a mile from the trailhead). Merced River water is available up to Little Yosemite Valley, however you should treat this water by boiling, using iodine, or using a giardia-rated water filter. Drinking untreated river water may cause significant illness.
You can carry the water in a large canteen to wear over your shoulder (pre-frozen the night before so you can have a cool drink).
2. Food- (high energy, light weight), check at sporting good stores for examples(trail mix, granola bars, dried fruit, raisins, cheese, crackers, Lunchables... pack lightly).
3. Gloves- (leather or rawhide, not winter type), to protect your hands on the cables. However, if you bring your gloves up, pack them out. Hundreds of pounds of rotting gloves otherwise accumulate.
4. Socks- (to put on after soaking feet in water on the way down from Half Dome).
5. Mole skin- (to put on sore spots on toes, precut or bring pocket knife).
6. Kleenex or toilet paper- Flush toilets are available at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (below Vernal Fall). Composting toilets are available near Emerald Pool (above Vernal Fall), near the top of Nevada Fall, and in Little Yosemite Valley.
At any other location, you are required to bury any solid human waste at least six inches (15 cm) deep and at least 100 feet (30 m) from water or trails. Pack out toilet paper.
7. Plastic bag that contains: Band-Aids, Neosporin, pain reliever, Dramamine.
8. Pocket knife.
9. Bandanna- (nice to wet in streams along the way to wet the face and tie around your neck).
10. Sunscreen- (apply frequently since you will be perspiring often).
11. Bug repellent- (mosquitoes are out in early day and evening, pesky small flies too).
12. Hat- (cover over the back of neck is good, sun will be on your back most of the way).
13. Back pack or waist pack- (you could use two waist packs, one in the front - other in the back).
14. Hiking boots- Another easy way to make your hike enjoyable is to have well broken-in boots with good ankle support and good traction. Some of the most common injuries Half Dome hikers suffer are blisters and ankle injuries; good footwear is the best way to prevent these problems. Tennis shoes are slippery on rocks.
15. Light weight wind breaker- The summit is typically 15°F (8°C) to 20°F (11°C) cooler than Yosemite Valley and windy conditions are common. Be prepared for cool temperatures and rain showers.
16. Small Flashlight- (hike may take you longer than expected). If you plan on hiking during the day, it's smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For instance, if you haven't reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. Check for sunrise and sunset times before you hike. Regardless, each person should carry a flashlight or headlamp with good batteries (hikers commonly struggle down the trail after dark because they don't have a flashlight).
17. Camera- (put around neck or in backpack while going up the cables). If while climbing the cables your camera slips from your hands as you are clicking that fantastic shot of the eagle swooping overhead...let it fall. Several people have fallen as they grab for their falling cameras.
18. Topo map- Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them.
19. Silver emergency blanket.
20. Poncho- (small inexpensive disposable one), the trail leading to Vernal Fall is called the mist trail!!!
21. Money- to get ice cream at Curry Village at end of hike.
Where to start the hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Most people begin the hike from Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16), which is about a half-mile from the trail head parking lot or about 3/4 of a mile from Curry Village (parking available).
When to start your hike to Yosemite's Half Dome:
Early as possible! You will need to give yourselves 10-12 hours to complete this very difficult hike. The shuttle buses start running at 7 am.
Be warned there is an increase in crowding and congestion on Saturdays and holiday weekends on Half Dome. Most visitors arriving at the cables during these periods will experience slow access to the summit, extended exposure to potentially uncomfortable conditions, and an increased likelihood of irresponsible behavior due to frustration with conditions. We strongly recommend planning your Half Dome visit for days other than Saturdays or holiday weekends.
Time of year to hike Yosemite's Half Dome:
NEVER HIKE HALF DOME IN A THUNDER STORM. Lightning may strike Yosemite's Half Dome at any time. Check the weather forecast before your hike and try to reach the summit early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If a storm appears nearby, do not continue to the summit and, if in the summit area, leave the area (while still using caution when descending the cables and steps).
Late May the cables are usually put up at Half Dome. The cables are usually taken down in late September early October. The weather is a factor when going up the cables. The best time to hike the trail is late June. The weather is still cool, daylight is longest and crowds are usually less. Depending on the weather, if a storm is in the forecast, do not attempt to hike the trail.
More helpful information:
Environmental Illness and Injury
A few visitors each summer have problems with altitude sickness. Symptoms may include severe headache and/or nausea. The only way to relieve altitude sickness is to descend immediately. Other environmental illnesses include heat exhaustion, dehydration, and hyponatremia (low electrolyte levels). In addition to drinking plenty of water, be sure to eat, and to take regular rest breaks in the shade.
Water safety
Entering Emerald Pool and the Silver Apron is prohibited, and entering pools above waterfalls is strongly discouraged, because of frequent injuries and fatalities.
Emergencies
Even if you plan properly and bring the correct equipment, you might still encounter problems. Some cell phones have coverage from Half Dome and from some locations on the trail. Little Yosemite Valley Ranger Station is staffed during summer. You can find the ranger station on the north side of the valley, near where the Half Dome Trail begins to climb out of the valley. Park rangers frequently patrol the trail, so the ranger station is not always staffed. You may need to send some members of your group to Yosemite Valley to get assistance.
Trash
There is no trash service on trails. While hiking in Yosemite, be sure to pack out all trash. When possible, you can help park rangers by picking up trash that you encounter on the trail. Bear proof trash cans are available at trail heads.
Don't forget your camera and have a safe, enjoyable hike!
