This article is based on senior Spencer Lee’s firsthand experience hiking Half Dome three times.
For an adventurous outdoor thrill with majestic views of the mountains, make the trek to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park this summer.
The hike is 17 miles (27.4 km) round trip. It includes a 4,800-foot elevation change and travels through the forest, up and down steep hills, and consists of numerous switchbacks. It also features views of two waterfalls and an expansive mountain range.
Starting in May 2010, the National Park Service will require all weekend hikers to obtain a permit in order to summit half dome. The $1.50 permits provide a safety measure by limiting the amount of hikers. To obtain a Half Dome permit visit Recreation.gov.
Prior to the permit system, 50,000 hikers climbed Half Dome every year.
If planning to hike Half Dome, get an early start at the trailhead from between 6 and 7 a.m. This will provide maximum time to enjoy the hike without worrying about lack of daylight. In my past three trips to half dome, it has taken me an average of 9-10 hours round trip, so plan accordingly.
Wear a T-shirt and shorts with comfortable hiking boots. You also may want to bring a sweatshirt and sunscreen depending on the weather that day.
The most important supplies you can bring are food and water. Trail favorites include sandwiches, dried fruit and protein bars. In the past I have brought fresh fruit as well.
You cannot bring too much water for this hike. Your best bet is to pack a water purifier; however, you can also get by with four or five bottles of water. If you prefer cold water, freeze two of the water bottles overnight, and they will melt on the hike.
The summit rises 8,842 feet above sea level and is often moderately windy. Most of the hikers who reach the summit spend the next hour or two relaxing and taking pictures.
Two metal cables allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. The cables were originally constructed in 1919 in order to provide easier access to the summit. The route is rated Class 3 for difficulty and may be difficult for beginning hikers.
“It’s one of the most popular hikes in the world,” hiker Mike Rissle said. “It was more difficult than I anticipated. That first part of the hike up to Vernal Falls had steps that I wasn’t expecting. It’s a life-long dream for me to hike Half Dome.”
According to Recreation.gov, the cables are projected to go up May 21.
While hiking anywhere in Yosemite, do not take shortcuts off the trail or across switchbacks; this causes trail erosion and is illegal. The Half Dome hike requires a high level of fitness and should not be attempted without prior training and preparation.
According to Yosemitehikes.com, “Half Dome is the ultimate Yosemite day hike — the one you can’t die without doing, and the one you’re most likely to die while doing.”
For more information on Yosemite, read the Oct. 24, 2008 article, Yosemite excursion engenders environmental appreciation.
