How long is the hike to the base of Half Dome?
The trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike covering over 17 miles. Hikers gain 4,800 feet of elevation along the trail that passes highlights such as Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, before reaching the cables on Half Dome’s steep granite domes.
What trail takes you to Half Dome?
Half Dome via the John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 15 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Yosemite Valley, California that features a waterfall and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers.
How fit do you have to be to hike Half Dome?
The trail up Half Dome is very steep and very slippery. This is not the place to confront your fears. You must have a very good level of physical fitness. You will be climbing (and then descending) 5,500 feet.
Can a beginner climb Half Dome?
Most people do the hike in a day, but you can also camp and break it up. How hard is the Half Dome hike? Yosemite National Park calls it “maybe the most strenuous day hike in any park,” but it’s doable by most people with the right preparation. I’ve seen people in their 70s and I’ve seen 12-year-olds (not recommended).
Is Half Dome harder than Whitney?
I’d say Whitney is the more difficult of the two. It’s just higher and longer. If you consider Whitney 10/10 and you did half dome all the way I’d put Half Dome at 6/10 with Whitney. The altitude makes a huge difference.
Do you need a harness to hike Half Dome?
You do not need climbing experience to go up Half Dome on the cables. What you do need is a high level of fitness, and a good measure of common sense.
Can I hike Half Dome alone?
Actually, it is possible to hike half dome without a permit. I’ve hiked Half Dome four separate times, and I’ve never once had to use a standard Half Dome Permit. If you really want to get up Half Dome, then you totally can. In fact, I can think of 7 different ways to climb Half Dome without a traditional Permit.
When is the best time to hike Half Dome?
Most hikers take 10-12 hours to complete this. The best time to visit the Half Dome is anytime from late May to October. The Half Dome is by no means a walk in the park. Half Dome is a 14-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 4,800ft.
How long does it take to hike Half Dome?
This is a hike that requires you to be in shape. Most take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back depending on the routes up and down. Plan to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time.
How difficult is it to climb half dome?
The Half Dome is one of the most difficult day hikes at Yosemite. It is strenuous and will require physical fitness and mountaineering skills on the cable route. If you are not comfortable with heights, you may want to avoid the cable route.
How do you hike Half Dome?
Hiking up Half Dome Decide on the route you want to take. Start your hike at sunrise or earlier. Fill your water at Vernal Fall Footbridge or the Merced River. Use the bathroom at Vernal Fall Footbridge, Emerald Pool , Nevada Fall , or in Little Yosemite Valley . Turn around if you see thunderstorms in the area.