Half Dome, Yosemite NP, CA

Yosemite NP is a paradise for hikers. In 1996 my cousin and I spent some days there and chose to go for the summit of Half Dome. It is probably one of the most famous day hikes in the U.S. Considering the fact that the total elevation gain is 4,800 feet (1463 m) it is a pretty long hike (17 miles/27.4 km round-trip). Duration: 10 to 12 hours (for ordinary mortals).

We set out for the ramble very early in the morning (flashlights required!) to avoid the crowds on the trail. Starting point was the Nature Center at Happy Isles close to the Upper Pines Campground.

We followed the "Mist trail" along the Merced River. On our way we passed the beautiful Vernal Fall (317 feet/97 m)). Then we climbed up the granite stairway (steep and slippery!) and continued to the higher Nevada Fall (594 ft/181 m). Then we turned into Little Yosemite Valley. We were still alone on the trail when we reached the northeast ridge of Half Dome. The final 900 feet of the hike to the summit are a little bit tricky - for the simple reason that the rock is quite steep. Two cables are running up to serve as handholds. When we did the hike gloves where provided at the base of the ascent. Better bring your own pair to protect your hands. With gloves "climbing" up (and down!) was no problem.

We reached the summit arround 11 am. The view from the top was - simply put - glorious! It is definitely worth a visit.

Enjoy the view but do not forget to start the descent in time. The way back is longer and more strenuous than many people expect. In addition to that it gets very dark in the valley after sunset.

For the average punter (like myself) this will be a very tough hike, It's about 4,800 ft, and the trail is about 12 miles in distance. It should take about 4 hours to reach the top and then about 3 coming down.

The last 400 meters of the hike need to be done by holding onto chains and literally pulling yourself up the mountain face....no harness...no safety equipment, but they do supply you with gloves to protect your hands!

I would recommend being at the start of the trail as early as possible, you will need about 4 liters of water and some cliff bars...sandwiches...stuff with lots of calories.... you will be burning about 5,000 additional calories going up and coming down so make sure you have plenty.

Apart from the end part it is very doable. Just one note of warning if you do suspect its going to rain call off the hike the top is pure granite and when it gets wet it becomes extremely treacherous.

I loved the halfdome trip. It is not for someone out of shape! You can make it if you are moderately in shape but it is rough. The summit is well worth the trek!!! You can see forever! A great trip is to visit Lake Tahoe while you are in the area and make sure to travel the Tioga pass. Great view and scenery. Any questions about the trip just email me. bobby_rv@yahoo.com