How To Hike Half Dome In Yosemite National Park

The Half Dome hike is the single most epic hike in California’s Yosemite National Park, with a thrilling and scary cables section at the end of the trail that leads you to panoramic views of the entire Yosemite valley!

Half Dome is normally accessed by the popular Mist Trail, where you’ll get to see two big waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and other scenery along the Merced River. This is a very hard and strenuous day hike, so it’s not for everyone, but standing on top of Half Dome is such a great achievement if you can do it.

The Half Dome cables section at the end of the hike is especially challenging, and could be dangerous if you’re not careful. Permits have been required for the cable section since 2010 to maintain safety and reduce crowding, and these are handed out by lottery.

This travel guide for the Half Dome hike will explain how to climb it safely, where to find the trailhead in Yosemite, how to get Half Dome permits, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Quick Facts

• Distance: 16.5 miles (26.5 km) round trip
• Elevation Gain: 5,300 feet (1,615 m)
• Top Elevation: 8,844 feet (2,695 m)
• Duration: 9 – 12 hours round trip
• Difficulty: Hard

The cables section is one of the top highlights of the Half Dome hike.

What And Where Is Half Dome?

Half Dome is a granite peak at Yosemite National Park, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. The Yosemite park is centrally located within California, making it accessible from major cities like Fresno, Sacramento, San Francisco, and even Las Vegas, Nevada.

The park is approximately 2.5 hours from Fresno, 4 hours from San Francisco, and about 7 hours from Las Vegas.

Half Dome Hike: What To Expect

A typical Half Dome hike starts with a very early wakeup and then a long uphill journey via the Mist Trail, another of Yosemite’s most popular trails. Upon reaching the end, hikers encounter the Half Dome cables section, where they must ascend a steep mountainside using a series of metal cables. This exhilarating climb makes Half Dome a must-do for many outdoor enthusiasts.

The Half Dome cable section is not to be underestimated. It has gained a reputation for its intimidating climb; fatalities have occurred. While the ascent can be safe if approached with caution, it may not be suitable for everyone.

The details outlined here will clarify each segment of the Half Dome trail and what to expect. The entire hike is truly magnificent, from beginning to end!

Summit view on the Half Dome hike.

• Mist Trail vs John Muir Trail (JMT)

Choosing between the Mist Trail and the John Muir Trail (JMT) is the first important decision for hikers. Both trails begin at the same trailhead and offer similar difficulty levels, although the scenery varies slightly. The Mist Trail is shorter but steeper compared to the John Muir Trail, which presents a more gradual descent after both trails merge at Nevada Fall.

Both routes are pleasant, but the main considerations include crowd levels, safety, and scenery. It’s advisable to use the Mist Trail on the ascent (when it tends to be less crowded), and then descend via the John Muir Trail for a less busy, less slippery path.

This approach enhances safety and efficiency, while also offering a delightful blend of views and photo opportunities.

Along the way to Half Dome, you’ll pass Nevada Fall and the Liberty Cap.

How Hard Is The Half Dome Hike?

Half Dome is a challenging hike. The cables section alone poses significant mental and physical challenges, coupled with the strenuous uphill trek required to reach it on steep and rocky trails. Training is advisable, even for regular hikers.

Yosemite National Park sees numerous visitors seeking assistance annually on this hike, with many emergencies being avoidable. Proper training in preparation for the Half Dome trail is recommended.

What To Bring To Half Dome

• Shoes: Confirm that your shoes have good grip; steep and slippery conditions require solid hiking boots.
• Water: Rangers recommend about 4 liters per person, particularly during hotter months.
• Snacks: Carry salty and sugary snacks for energy during the hike.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen and hats are essential due to limited shade on Sub Dome and Half Dome.
• Gloves: Essential for handling the Half Dome cables safely; personal gloves are necessary.
• Headlamp: A light source is vital if starting early or returning late.
• Poncho: A poncho may be needed in spring during the Mist Trail.
• Permit: Having a valid permit and ID is essential for access to the Half Dome cables.

Half Dome Lottery Permit System

Since 2010, day-use permits for the Half Dome cables section are required via lottery, implemented to enhance safety and manage visitor numbers. Current regulations allow for 300 hikers daily, split between day hikers and backpackers.

Permits are mandatory year-round, except when the cables are not in place. The overall experience remains incredible, and acquiring permits can be explained in more detail in the following section.

How To Get Half Dome Permits

Various means exist to acquire permits, including entering the daily lottery or applying for an overnight backpacking permit that includes Half Dome.

Permits are typically required only for the cables section, allowing for the hike up to the base of Sub Dome without one. Applying early for less crowded days can improve your chances.

Can You Hike Half Dome Without A Permit?

While it’s not advisable to attempt the hike without a permit, finding someone with an unused permit is a possibility. However, sneaking onto the Half Dome without authorization can lead to fines.

Half Dome Via Glacier Point & Panorama Trail

Alternatively, hikers may consider starting at Glacier Point along the Panorama Trail, which offers stunning views, albeit requiring more stamina due to increased distance and elevation gain compared to the Mist Trail route.

U.S. National Park Regulations

The Half Dome trail is governed by Yosemite National Park regulations. Visitors should maintain cleanliness on the trails and leave no trace.

Entrance Fee

A park pass is needed to enter Yosemite. Various options are available including daily and annual passes.

Overall, the Half Dome hike presents an opportunity for experienced and fit hikers to explore one of the most astounding natural environments in the United States.