Half Dome Hike in a Day
The Half Dome hike in Yosemite is truly a trip of a lifetime! Hiking Half Dome in a day consists of a 16-mile round-trip trek that takes all day and ascends nearly 5,000 feet beside two majestic waterfalls and a steep cable route before arriving at the top of the famous 8,842′ granite dome. While this is one of the most strenuous day hikes in the park, our guides will take the necessary time to educate you on the natural history, geology, and prominent figures who helped shape Yosemite as we know it today.
Half Dome is the signature landmark of Yosemite National Park and the most photographed natural landmark in the world. Hiking to the top is a taxing ordeal, taking about 12 hours, yet it is one of the most popular hikes in the country and offers terrific scenery throughout. Day hikers will begin their journey in Happy Isles and ascend hundreds of steep granite steps via the steep Mist Trail next to both Vernal and Nevada Fall. This hike culminates with a steep cable system where you will climb the last 425 vertical feet using a 1/2-inch steel cable handrail. While it is a guaranteed adrenaline rush, our knowledgeable guides will provide guidance and techniques to keep you as comfortable as possible while ascending. Once atop this famous landmark (featured on the 2005 Quarter coin) you will have unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, El Capitan, Clouds Rest, Tenaya Canyon, and pretty much the entire Yosemite high country.
Hiking to Half Dome is a very strenuous hike that can provide a whole new sense of confidence and accomplishment. For many people, this is their Mt. Everest and is one of the most ambitious hikes they will ever undertake. Lasting Adventures, Inc. has guided well over 3,000 clients to the summit of Half Dome on hundreds of separate occasions. However, please note that while we aim to get everyone to the top, summiting is not guaranteed. Lightning and rain can be deadly on Half Dome and our experienced guides may have to call off a Half Dome summit bid if weather conditions are unfavorable. Our guides are proven leaders in the Yosemite backcountry and being the guide service with the most Half Dome experience, we have a reputation of knowledge and safety. Additionally, some type of conditioning or training is highly recommended to ensure a successful attempt at completing this hike.
2019 dates are live! We are currently holding some permits for those that requested them ahead of time. Those permits will become available if not booked within 72 hours. If you don’t see dates you want please check back at the end of the day on April 13, 2019.
Check Out the Half Dome Hike in a Day Experience!
Itinerary
The Half Dome hike is a long, challenging and a rewarding day. We will leave Curry Village to the nearby Happy Isles trailhead at 5:30 am and can expect to be back in the Valley around 6 pm if not later. (Plan accordingly) We strongly suggest you be physically prepared for this adventure. This is an “extremely strenuous” hike. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and for the many aspects of the wilderness such as insects and animals. Feel free to contact us to discuss any recommendations for preparedness. We recommend training by progressing to 6-8 hour day hikes to include long steep hills along with weight training to prepare for the cable pull. (It’s also a good excuse to get outside.)
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What to Bring
- Two one-quart wide-mouth water bottles full for departure. Hydration pack is okay too if you are comfortable carrying it. We will supply water filters for re-filling your bottles along the trail. Natural water is unsafe to drink.
- Electrolyte powder of your taste preference (3/4 cup)
- Food. pounds recommended. Carbohydrates are good! Examples include: 4-7 energy bars, trail mix, jerky, candy, etc. A pre-made bagel sandwich keeps its shape and tastes great on the summit!
- Quality hiking boots are recommended. Trail shoes are okay. We prefer good soles and ankle support. ABSOLUTELY no tennis shoes – you will not be allowed to join this hike if you arrive wearing them.
- Hiking socks – NO cotton
- Lightweight shorts
- Polypropylene shirt to help wick away sweat and keep you cool – NO cotton
- Hat. Preferably one you can get wet to cool your head.
- Facecloth or bandana
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm
- Flashlight – 4 AA minimum or a headlamp mandatory
- Sunglasses
- Small digital camera with neck strap
- Trekking Poles are very helpful and advised (knee relief)
- We provide nitrile rubber coated gloves for the cable ascent. They are super sticky and work. Feel free to bring your own pair if you wish.
- Lightweight rain gear or shells for the Mist Trail and possible afternoon thunderstorm.
- Blister prevention supplies
- Fanny Pack or Daypack (whichever you prefer) to carry all of your necessities
- Zip lock baggies for trash
- Pre-hike dinner: Eat a balanced meal with nothing that may upset your stomach during the hike. Pre-hydrate that day and night.
- Pre-hike breakfast: Bagels, muffins, juice, granola, apple, banana – use the bear boxes!
Our cost for the Half Dome in a Day Hike is $300 per hiker. This price also includes a Lasting Adventures Half Dome t-shirt. Gratuities for guides are not required but are appreciated. Typically gratuities range from 10-20% of your trip’s total cost; not per guide.
Lasting Adventures, Inc. will bring first aid gear, water treatment supplies, toilet paper/trowel, extra sunscreen, and extra snacks!
*2019 dates are live! We are currently holding some permits for those that requested them ahead of time. Those permits will become available if not booked within 72 hours. If you don’t see dates you want please check back at the end of the day on April 13, 2019.
