Half Dome Hiking Accidents: Total Fatalities on the Trail

What Is Half Dome?

Half Dome is a granite peak recognized as the most iconic hike in California’s Yosemite National Park. This strenuous day hike features a range of terrain, making it a true test for hikers.

The cables section, which culminates the hike, poses particular challenges, as hikers climb a steep granite slope with the help of cables, poles, and wooden boards.

Since 2010, permits for the cable section have been required, aimed at enhancing safety and managing crowd levels, distributed through a lottery system.

How Many People Have Died On Half Dome?

Accurate statistics on fatalities associated with the Half Dome hike are challenging to compile, but the following estimates provide a clearer picture:

• Confirmed 12 falling deaths linked to Half Dome, primarily during wet weather. Several incidents occurred while the cables were down, alongside some health-related falls.
• There have been 3 lightning deaths, all occurring at the summit.
• 8 rock climbing deaths have been recorded, stemming from both natural occurrences and climber inexperience.
• 2 base jumping deaths have occurred, as this activity is illegal in Yosemite National Park.
• At least 15 river deaths have been noted on the Mist Trail, although many were unrelated to the Half Dome hike.

Overall, there have been 25 accidental deaths on Half Dome, though the total is likely over 40 when accounting for the Mist Trail fatalities. This establishes Half Dome as one of the most perilous hiking destinations in the U.S.

Half Dome Deaths List (2024)

Below is a comprehensive list of fatalities associated with Half Dome:

• 2024 July – Grace Rohloff, 20, slipped and fell 200-300 feet due to unexpected weather, hiking with her father.
• 2019 September – Danielle Burnett, 29, fell 500 feet while climbing the cable section after losing her grip.
• 2018 May – Asish Penugonda, 29, fell from the cables during thunderstorms.
• 2011 August – Ryan Leeder, 23, fell from the summit, with speculation surrounding possible suicide.
• 2011 July – Haley LaFlamme, 26, fell 600 feet while descending in wet conditions.
• 2009 June – Manoj Kumar, 40, slipped while descending during rainfall.
• 2007 June – Hirofumi Nohara, 37, slipped while climbing the cables section.
• 2007 April – Jennie Bettles, 43, fell 1,000 feet while descending the cables.
• 2006 November – Emily Sandall, 25, slipped on wet granite while the cables were down.
• 2004 June – Donald Cochrane, 48, suffered a fatal fall while experiencing chest pains.
• 1995 August – Michael Gerde, 50, collapsed and fell shortly after reaching the summit.
• 1987 July – A young male hiker died from an apparent fall.
• 1985 July – Brian Jordan and Robert Frith were killed by a lightning strike at the summit.
• 1972 August – Edward Willems was struck by lightning while seeking shelter.
• 1948 September – Paul Garinger fainted and fell 2,000 feet.

What Can We Learn From This?

The data indicates that most falling deaths on Half Dome result from adverse weather conditions, particularly rain, which makes the granite slippery and increases lightning risk.

The primary takeaway is to never attempt the Half Dome cables during stormy weather. Adhering to this rule can significantly reduce risk. Always prioritize personal safety by monitoring weather forecasts and staying below the tree line during inclement conditions.

It’s crucial to wear proper footwear for traction; while some hikers opt for safety harnesses, the foremost consideration should always be the weather. Regardless of gear, even the best shoes fail on slick granite surfaces.

Rock Climbing Deaths On Half Dome

Rock climbing at Half Dome entails distinct risks. Notable incidents include:

• 2015 November – Angela Uys, 26, fell 500 feet while climbing the Snake Dike route.
• 2011 September – Markus Praxmarer, 48, fell 700 feet due to a loose rock.
• 2005 September – Chris Feher, 35, fell between 100-150 feet while climbing solo.
• 1989 April – A young male hiker fell while attempting to solo climb.
• 1987 August – A 35-year-old man suffered a fatal injury from rockfall.
• 1978 January – A 20-year-old hiker died due to inexperience.
• 1968 March – Two climbers were killed by an avalanche.

Other Incidents On Half Dome

Numerous other injuries and rescues have occurred on the Half Dome trail. Below are a select few incidents:

• 2023 October – A climber fell 80 feet, suffering serious injuries but was saved by an off-duty Air Force officer.
• 2023 September – Hikers sought shelter during a storm, with some narrowly avoiding serious injury.
• 2009 June – A female hiker slid down the cables and was rescued.
• 2006 October – A hiker suspended his slide 30 feet from the cliff edge.
• 2004 September – A lost hiker was rescued during an unexpected snowstorm.

Deaths On The Mist Trail & Waterfalls

The Mist Trail, the most frequented route for Half Dome, has its own tragic history, with an estimated 40 deaths. At least 15 involved falls into the swiftly flowing Merced River. Notably:

• The Mist Trail is popular and many hikers on this path do not continue to Half Dome.
• Alternative routes exist, like the Panorama Trail from Glacier Point.
• Public information is less available for these trails, contributing to uncertainty about risks.
• Many falls are preventable by adhering to safety guidelines.

Is Half Dome Dangerous Or Safe?

While climbing Half Dome carries inherent risks, it is considered manageable by experienced hikers who prepare adequately. Most hikers reach the summit safely, benefitting from improved safety measures since permits were introduced in 2010.

In summer, roughly 9,000 hikers safely summit Half Dome each month, demonstrating relative safety amidst the dangers. Regardless, climbers should remain vigilant regarding their surroundings and personal capabilities.

Why Do People Hike Half Dome?

The Half Dome hike offers unique and incredible experiences, showcasing waterfalls, maintaining views across the Yosemite Valley, and providing exhilarating challenges. Many enjoy the hiking journey as much as the destination.

Those unsure about the ascent can always choose to turn back after the initial hike, as the scenic beauty of Yosemite offers ample rewards without completing the cables section.

Half Dome Lottery Permit System

Since 2010, the National Park Service has implemented a permit system for the Half Dome cables to reduce crowding and enhance safety. Daily use is limited to 300 hikers, ensuring a better experience.

This revision has significantly improved climbing conditions on Half Dome, making it safer while preserving its appeal as a challenging hike.

Thank you for engaging with this vital safety guide regarding the Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park. Your well-informed decisions can make all the difference on the trail.