Hike Description:
Two gushing waterfalls, a series of perilous cables, and (about) half of a massive granite dome: welcome to the most iconic hike in Yosemite Valley.

Tourists, campers, hikers, climbers, nature lovers, the young and old, the firsttimers, the experienced, at some point they all converge. Where? In California's Yosemite National Park that question is superfluous, for there are plenty of winding paths, Ansel Adamspictured scenes, water features, historic sites, and high summits to choose from. But mention "Half Dome" and a thought may arise in the most uninitiated of minds because, well, everyone comes here. Some come to enjoy the camping in Little Yosemite Valley; a great number to marvel at Vernal and Nevada Falls; others to hike the 7 to 8mile (one way) trip and grab as securely as they can onto those perilous cables. A fearimmune brave souls climb straight up to the top.

Whatever can be done to intertwine with this majestic granite formation, one must commit to it. Hike this at least once, because while up there the High Sierra can expand the sight in all directions—it is well worth the effort, even if the hike is as long and difficult as everyone has warned. Yes, the cables get notoriously steep immediately after the initial steps. And, yes, going back down will be a stressinducing experience as well. But the most difficult part of all? Getting a permit to climb (those cables) onto Half Dome in the first place.

Self Commentary:
For various reasons it took me a few times to get this video, but the cables were fun every time. Be careful and take time as needed while climbing but do let faster hikers pass, whether going up or down. The waterfalls on this hike are destinations of their own; there will be a lot of people on the Mist Trail up to the top of Nevada Fall, but after that the crowds generally thin out. Going up, the last toilets on the trails are at the top of Nevada Fall; however, farther ahead more can be found via the offtrail campground detour in Little Yosemite Valley. There are many spots to explore on this hike and along the Merced River that I am not showing in the video. The river/waterfalls typically achieve peak flow during spring and early summer (depending on the previous winter season), and become less voluminous later in the year—you may spot the difference with Vernal Fall between my photos, which were taken in June, and video recorded in October.

This hike was on my list for a long time and I was ecstatic to finally complete it. The first time setting foot on Half Dome I definitely felt the effects of the High Sierra: lighter, accomplished, and more reflective of myself and my happenings. It might be something else for you; during one of the times I was up there I overheard someone proclaimed she felt "lucky." That is a great word.

There will be many people climbing the cables, but it is possible to beat the crowds by breaking the hike into a 2day backpacking trip and camping overnight at the Little Yosemite Valley Campground (wilderness permit required). This method will not necessarily make things easier since heavy camping gear is carried the whole time (unless, of course, you are an ultralighter).

Part 2:    • Full Hike [CC] (No Map/Stabilization)...  

Hike Photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/pkNmXf4T3wC...

Half Dome Hike by The Outbound Mind

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