Hiking to Half Dome is one of the most iconic outdoor experiences in Yosemite Valley, California. Known for its challenging nature and breathtaking views, this hike attracts adventurers eager to conquer its granite dome and experience the natural beauty that defines Yosemite. Half Dome is a bucket-list objective for many, drawing hikers from around the world to test their limits and revel in unparalleled scenery. It’s also a permit-required hike, underscoring its popularity and the need for preparation.
Adventure Guide to Hiking to Half Dome
Mist Trail and Vernal Falls
The journey begins on the Mist Trail, which takes you past the stunning Vernal and Nevada Falls. This segment features steep granite steps and heavy mist from the waterfall during spring and early summer, so be prepared for slippery conditions. This trail is a highlight due to its dynamic scenery and proximity to rushing waters.
Sub Dome Climb to Cables Section
After ascending through subalpine terrain, you reach the Sub Dome—a series of steep rock steps exposed to the sun. From here, the final challenge begins: the infamous Half Dome Cables, a near-vertical 400-foot ascent with steel cables installed for safety. Gloves are crucial for grip, and hikers must be comfortable with heights. This section is both exhilarating and physically demanding, requiring mental focus and steady footing.
Summit Views and Photo Opportunities
Once you reach the summit, you’re greeted with sweeping, panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Cloud’s Rest, and the High Sierra peaks. This is the reward for your effort and a superb opportunity for photography. The summit's flat expanse provides space to relax, hydrate, and take in the scenery.
Local Insights
The original Half Dome cables were installed in 1919 to assist hikers with the steep ascent. Today, permits are required due to safety and environmental concerns.
Native American tribes considered Half Dome a sacred place, calling Yosemite "Ahwahnee," meaning "gaping mouth.”
Visitor Tips
Best time: Late May to early October, weather permitting.
Essentials: Hiking boots, gloves for the cables, water (minimum 3 liters), food, sunscreen, and a permit.
Directions: Half Dome trailhead starts at Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley. Drive ~5 minutes or take a free shuttle from Yosemite Village.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Casey Lauer3 months ago
Half Dome was an extremely fun and strenuous hike. We stayed at Curry Village the night before our hike. Started our hike at 5:30am and made it to the top of the Mist Trail and Vernal Falls at 6:45am. I brought almost 1 gallon of water and a 24oz. Gatorade for some flavor and electrolytes. The weather was pleasant for much of the hike so we didn’t sweat much until the sun got a little higher in the sky. Lots of trees and shade until you get to Sub Dome, which is the most difficult part of the hike in my opinion. Made it to the permit area before the entrance of Sub Dome at 10:45am and there was no park ranger checking permits. Took about 30-45 minutes to get to the base of the cables from there. The cables looked a bit daunting from afar, but once you get up to them, it’s really not too bad. We didn’t use any harnesses and never felt unsafe ascending or descending the cables. Spent about 30 minutes at the top taking in the views, and started the trek back down the mountain. Took the John Muir Trail down instead of the Mist Trail since it’s supposed to be easier on your legs and you get some incredible views of the Valley. Got back to the car at 5:30pm, so about a 12-hour hike all said and done. Our watches showed 20 miles round trip, but Curry Village is about 1.5 miles from the trailhead each way. I would recommend bringing at least 1 gallon of water, lots of snacks, climbing gloves, collapsible poles, and good hiking boots. If you are unsuccessful in the seasonal or daily lotteries, I would just plan a trip to do the hike between the 1st of October and the day the cables get dropped. We never saw a park ranger going up or down the mountain, so I assume they may not be checking permits toward the en of the season. $280 fine for hiking Sub Dome and the cables without a permit, but may be worth it if it’s your only option.
Nick Monaghan3 months ago
Hiking half dome is an amazing adventure to an iconic summit in yosemite national park.
But it is important to note that:
1) access to the half dome summit is restricted by a permit system and that permits are allocated through a lottery run by the national park service.
2) start early and be prepared for a long hike with over a vertical mile of ascent/descent.
3) the cable section to the summit can be crowded and a little bit sketchy but it's not as bad as it looks.
I started my hike at 5:30 am from the Yosemite valley trailhead parking, ascended John muir trail and descended via the mist trail, but it is probably easier the other way round.
Total hike time was about 10 and a half hours.
Toilets are available at the top and bottom of vernal falls, the top of Nevada falls and at the little Yosemite valley campground.
I climbed the cable section without using protection but roughly 50% of people on the route were using a harness with a via ferrata lanyard, so you won't be alone if you want to climb more safely.
Serena Liao6 months ago
The best and most strenuous trail I have ever hiked. Absolutely bucket list! I started before 5:30, move time 8h, total time 10h.
John Gledhill4 months ago
Half Dome….. it’s a thing of beauty and an absolute must to go and see and even climb if you’re capable and have the time..!!
A magnificent world famous mountain that basks in its own glory in Yosemite Valley quietly partnering up with its neighbour El Capitan.
What a spectacular partnership these two beasts are, just patiently waiting to be climbed and explored.
Go see Half Dome and its mate El Capitan…. They’re simply amazing.
Alexandre Contreras3 months ago
One of the craziest hikes I've done! 25 km. Bring lots of water. Cables are not as hard as they look! Hiking the subdome is harder, trust me! Start early, 5 am!
