Hiking to the top of Half Dome in the Yosemite National Park
| 12 May 2010
The hike to Half Dome opens the 4 post-series about the Yosemite National Park's Trails. This hike is an arduous adventure into Wilderness. Only people in good physical shape should attempt the 14- to 16-mile round-trip hike to Half Dome. Thousands of people enjoy this hike every year and for those who succeed turns out to be a very rewarding experience. 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. It takes 10 to 12 hours to hike to the top of Half Dome and back so it is advisable to start at sunrise and have non-negotiable turning back time. This is not a route for inexperienced hikers and safety must always come first, which can be done by following some simple basic rules. Firstly it is important to time the hike so that if it takes more than originally planned and by a set time you have not yet reached the top it is important to turn back to avoid getting stuck in the wilderness after sunset.
Another fundamental tip for a safe hike is the general rule of not leaving the trail. Getting lost in the wilderness is one of the major causes behind rescue operations. On top of that make sure you carry enough water and wear a good pair of broken in hiking boots. Always remember to carry a flashlight and a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them. The most famous, or infamous, part of the hike is the ascent up the cables. The two metal cables allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. Weekends are usually the busiest days on the cables so in order to increase safety all people climbing above the subdome will need to carry a permit on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and federal holidays when the cables are up. A permit is not necessary on weekdays. For further information on how to apply for a permit and more tips on hiking trails in the park visit the Yosemite National Park website.
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