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Is Half Dome open now?
Bummer, this trail is closed.
Can you hike Half Dome right now?
The entire Glacier Point Road is closed in 2022. The only access to Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, and other Glacier Point Road destinations is via a long, strenuous hike. No water or toilets are available at Glacier Point.
Is Half Dome out and back?
You have a few different trail options if you are conquering this iconic granite beast in a day, but no matter which trail you choose a day hike on Half Dome is going to require a minimum of 14 miles and 4,800 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers take from 10-12 hours to hike Half Dome and back!
Is Yosemite Open 2022?
Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. However, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station is open only during daylight hours (approximately) and some roads are closed due to snow from around November through May or June. (Check road conditions and Hetch Hetchy hours.)
What is the best month to hike Half Dome?
Best Time to Visit: You can't climb Half Dome unless the cables are up, which is generally from late May or early June through Columbus Day weekend in October. The waterfalls will be better the earlier in the year you go. Avoid Half Dome on days when there are thunder clouds in the area - it's not worth the risk.
What time should I start Half Dome hike?
If you're new to hiking and not sure how conditioned you are, aim to start around 4-5am. You may be starting your hike in the dark, but it's much better than ending your hike in the dark. The first time I hiked Half Dome it took me nearly 7 hours just to make it to Little Yosemite Valley.
Is Half Dome an easy hike?
The trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely steep and strenuous hike covering over 14-16 miles. Hikers gain 4,800 feet of elevation along the trail that passes highlights such as Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, before reaching the cables on Half Dome's steep granite domes.
What shoes should I wear for Half Dome?
TRAIL SHOES - Make sure you have a good pair of trail runners or hiking boots with sticky outsoles and sufficient traction. This is very important because the granite at the top of Half Dome has been worn smooth from thousands of hikers before you.
What do I need to know before going to Half Dome?
The Hazards of Half Dome: Surviving the CablesWear the grippiest shoes you've got. ... Wear gloves. ... Clip yourself to the cables as you go. ... Take everything out of your backpack's outside pockets... ... Don't guzzle a thermos of coffee before you take on the cables. ... Be patient and look out for your fellow climbers.More items...
Is it worth visiting Yosemite in 2022?
Yosemite is absolutely worth visiting!
What attractions are closed in Yosemite in 2022?
The entire Glacier Point Road is closed in 2022. The only access to Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, and other Glacier Point Road destinations is via a long, strenuous hike. No water or toilets are available at Glacier Point.
Do you need reservations to go to Yosemite right now?
Reservations are not required to visit Yosemite National Park. As always, we strongly recommend that you make a reservation if you plan to stay overnight in Yosemite. The park entrance fee is $35 per car (valid for seven consecutive days).
Can you climb Half Dome in winter?
Ascending Half Dome in winter conditions requires mountaineering skills and equipment, plus emergency supplies. It is not a trail run or a simple day hike. Have a plan and know the risks.
Can you see Half Dome in winter?
And even when the snow starts falling in Yosemite Valley, you can still get spectacular views of Half Dome. Consider cross-country skiing on Glacier Point and stay the night at the Glacier Point Ski Hut. Or take a winter hike near Mirror Lake for stunning views of Half Dome in a winter wonderland setting.
Can you hike Half Dome in March?
hiking in march The cables for Half Dome are taken off at the end of October. However, Hetch Hetchy and Wawona remain open all year. Their trails will be snow-covered but they will be open. You can read NPS' current conditions before heading out for the day.
Is Half Dome open in winter?
hiking in december The cables for Half Dome are taken off at the end of October, so this hike in inaccessible until next May. However, Hetch Hetchy and Wawona remain open all year, and their trails will be snow-covered but open. You can read NPS' current conditions before heading out for the day.
How far in advance do you need to make a reservation for Yosemite?
Reservations are available and recommended up to 366 days in advance.
Why are trails closed in Yosemite?
Trails in Yosemite may be closed when there are hidden hazards or when they are impassable due to rock fall, snow, ice, or fire. Open trails aren't necessarily free of hazards--by entering the wilderness, you assume responsibility for your safety and must use good judgment.
Why is the trail closed in Lake Vernon?
The trail between Lake Vernon and Tiltill Valley (and area north of that) is closed due to a fire.
How far away from bears are you supposed to be from a park?
Bears: Bears are very active throughout the park! Be sure to store your food properly and to remain at least 50 yards from bears in forest and meadows.
When are Peregrine Falcons closed?
Climbing closures are in effect on several routes each year from March 1 through July 15 to protect peregrine falcons. Additionally, a free wilderness climbing permit is required for all overnight big wall climbs.
Is Crane Flat helibase closed?
The road to the Crane Flat helibase is closed.
Do you need a permit to hike Half Dome?
A permit is required to hike to the top of Half Dome when the cables are up. Due to bear activity along the Snow Creek Trail and the potential for bear/human interactions the area to the south and east of the footbridge is closed to overnight camping and unattended food (even if stored properly).
What is the most popular area in Yosemite?
Little Yosemite Valley is the most popular area in the Yosemite Wilderness, mainly because it provides easy access to Half Dome. Wilderness permits for the trails leading to Little Yosemite Valley are the most difficult to obtain, and a wilderness permit reservation is strongly recommended.
Where to camp in Yosemite?
If you would like to camp in a dispersed Wilderness setting, you must be at least two miles past the campground (at or beyond either Moraine Dome or the Half Dome/John Muir Trail junction). Camping is not permitted on top of Half Dome or at Lost Lake. If you have a wilderness permit for Happy Isles to Little Yosemite Valley or Glacier Point ...
How deep should a compost toilet be?
Composting Toilet. A composting toilet is available for use near the campground. When away from the campground, be sure to bury your waste at least six inches deep and at least 100 feet from any water source and trail. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. Potable Water.
How to treat a river?
Use established paths to reach the river to prevent habitat and riverbank damage. Treat river water with a giardia-rated filter, by boiling, or with iodine. The river is the only water source for the area; do not wash dishes or clothing in the river. Never use any soap (even if natural or biodegradable) in the river.
Where to store food in Yosemite Valley?
Your food and related items must be stored in a closed and latched food locker or bear canister unless you're within arm's reach of the food. (Read more about proper food storageor what do to if you see a bear.) Food lockers are communal, so do not store non-food items and do not put padlocks on the lockers. Pack out your trash.
Is there a check in at Little Yosemite Valley Campground?
Little Yosemite Valley Campground. The campground is minimally developed and there are no check-in or check-out procedures. You may leave your tent up during the day while day hiking. Food Lockers. Bears frequent the Little Yosemite Valley area, so be careful with your food, toiletries, and trash.
How many hikers can you take on Half Dome?
A maximum of 300 hikers will be allowed on the Half Dome cables per day. There are a limited of first-come, first-served permits available daily. Reservations for the permits can be made online at www.recreation.gov or by calling (877) 444-6777.
How long is Half Dome hike?
Yosemite’s most iconic attraction and most prestigious hike. Half Dome is Yosemite’s most iconic attraction in all of Yosemite Valley. The trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike covering over 17 miles.
How many days per week do you need to hike Half Dome?
Permits to hike to the top of Half Dome are required seven days per week and reservations will be distributed via a lottery system.
Why are half dome hikers rescued?
Understand your limits, take the recommended amount of water, and plan appropriately. Several Half Dome hikers are rescued each year due to unpreparedness. The most common first aid response issues are related to dehydration, so please carry plenty of water.
Do you need a permit to hike Half Dome?
A Half Dome hike is one that should only be attempted when the cables are up and the weather permits. Do not hike Half Dome unprepared.
Can you hike half dome?
A Half Dome hike is one that should only be attempted when the cables are up and the weather permits. Do not hike Half Dome unprepared. Despite the popularity of this hike, it is not suitable for novice or unfit hikers. Understand your limits, take the recommended amount of water, and plan appropriately. Several Half Dome hikers are rescued each ...
How many permits can you get in the lottery?
On each preseason lottery application, an applicant can apply for up to six permits (six people) and for specific dates or a range of dates. Applications will only be successful if the number of permits requested is available on at least one of the requested dates. If enough permits are available for more than one of the requested dates, permits will be automatically awarded to the highest priority date, as entered by the applicant.
How much is the second half dome fee?
The second fee is $10 per person and is charged only when you receive a permit. This fee pays for park rangers checking for Half Dome permits and providing Half Dome visitors with hiking and safety information. The $10 fee is fully refundable if you cancel your permit by 9 pm Pacific time the day before your hiking date or if the cables are not up on the date for which your permit is valid.
How many days per week do you need to hike to the top of Half Dome?
Permits to hike to the top of Half Dome are required seven days per week when the cables are up ( as called for in the Half Dome Stewardship Plan in order to protect wilderness character, reduce crowding, protect natural and cultural resources, and improve safety).
How many hikers can you take in Half Dome?
A maximum of 300 hikers are allowed (about 225 day hikers and 75 backpackers) each day on the Half Dome Trail beyond the base of the subdome.
What is the success rate of Half Dome?
For the entire 2018 season, average success rate on weekdays was 47%, but only 24% on weekends.
How much is the first permit fee?
The first fee, which is charged at the time you submit an application, is $10. This non-refundable fee, which is per application (not per person), is charged by Recreation.gov for the costs of processing your permit application. The second fee is $10 per person and is charged only when you receive a permit.
How often can you apply for an alternate permit?
Alternate permit holders must have or create a Recreation.gov account within the specified amount of time noted on the application. Alternates must accept this role within the specified amount of time as noted on the application or they will not be considered a valid member of the group. An applicant may apply as a permit holder or accept as an alternate permit holder only once per lottery.
How many permits are needed to hike Half Dome?
The quota for Half Dome permits for backpackers is 75 permits per day (50 available by reservation and 25 available two weeks in advance).
Can you hike to Half Dome with a wilderness permit?
No. Half Dome permits associated with wilderness permits are not valid for day hiking to Half Dome; they are only valid for backpackers. I have a wilderness permit for an itinerary that travels near Half Dome. Can I use a Half Dome day hiking permit?
Can you hike Half Dome in Yosemite?
Wilderness permits issued outside of Yosemite are not valid for hiking Half Dome. If you're beginning your backpacking trip outside of Yosemite, you'll need a Half Dome permit, which you can apply for using the lotteries. There are no exceptions.
Can you make a reservation for a half dome?
Reservations for Wilderness Permits & Half Dome Permits. While making a wilderness permit reservation, be sure to specify that you want Half Dome permits. If Half Dome permits are available and Half Dome is reasonably part of your itinerary, you will receive a reservation that includes them.
Can you compete in half dome lottery?
Yes, you may compete in the Half Dome permit lotteries. However, Half Dome permits for day hikers are only valid on the date specified on the Half Dome permit. You may also try for a first-come, first-served Half Dome permit, as described above.
Can you get a wilderness permit for Yosemite?
When requesting a wilderness permit for a trip beginning in Yosemite using this method, be sure to request Half Dome permits, and you will receive them if they are available and Half Dome is reasonably part of your itinerary.
Do you need a wilderness permit to build a half dome?
Yes, you need a wilderness permit. If you get a wilderness permit, you can use your existing Half Dome permit with it.
What is the name of the rock formation at the eastern end of Yosemite?
Easily the most recognizable landmark in all of Yosemite, Half Dome is a granite dome formation at the eastern end of the Yosemite Valley. Half Dome the most well-known rock formation in the park, perhaps even in the entire United States. Its sheer face gives it the appearance of being a large rock that’s been cut in half – hence the name Half Dome .
How high is Half Dome?
Spectacular to see in person, Half Dome rises 4,737 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley at an elevation of 8,844 feet above sea level. Originally named “Tis-sa-ack,” an Ahwahnechee phrase for Cleft Rock, Half Dome has been the home to many famous ascents, including the first known ascent by George Anderson in 1875, ...
Where to see Half Dome?
If you are looking for the best places to view Half Dome, you luckily don’t have to go far. Half Dome towers above Yosemite Valley and can be easily seen from many vantage points around Yosemite National Park by car. A couple of popular vista points include Tunnel View and Glacier Point. Feeling adventurous?
Can you hike to Cloud's Rest?
Trek up to Cloud’s Rest instead, as the name implies you’ll have a sky high view of the park and no permit is needed. The Panorama Trail – also a full-day hike – is another popular option for those looking for top Yosemite views, especially in spring.
Where Does the Half Dome Hike Start?
The Half Dome hike starts from the Happy Isles shuttle stop. There is parking and accommodation within walking distance.
What is the best way to hike Yosemite?
Clouds Rest – This is considered the best hike in Yosemite by many. You’ll climb up to the summit and tower above Half Dome. North Dome – A moderate hike to nearby North Dome, with a similar summit to Half Dome and views into the Yosemite Valley.
What is it like to see the cables in the sub dome?
When you ascend the Sub Dome and see the cables for the first time, it’s definitely awe-inspiring. Some hikers take a look and call it a day here, and that’s a smart move.
How tall is Half Dome?
The hike up to Half Dome, towering over the Yosemite Valley at 8846 feet, is one of the great bucket list hikes. You’ll pass iconic waterfalls, hike through majestic sequoias, and then pull yourself up steel cables to stand at the summit. There’s a lot to know before you start; this isn’t just a hike where you show up at the trailhead and go.
How long is the Half Dome hike?
How long is the Half Dome hike? The most popular route to Half Dome and back is 17 miles, and typically takes between 9 and 12 hours. Most people do the hike in a day, but you can also camp and break it up.
How far can you hike to the sub dome?
If you haven’t gotten a permit, you still have a chance. You are allowed to hike all the way to the Sub Dome, about 0.5 mile before the summit, without a permit. Generally the ranger will be sitting there, checking people’s permits. Simply go up to the ranger and ask him if there are any empty permit slots open.
When is Half Dome open?
And there are many other great non-permit hikes to experience at Yosemite as well. The lottery is generally open for all of March.
What company is Half Dome on?
Was used as the logo for software company, Sierra On-Line. In 1988, Half Dome was featured on a 25 cent United States postage stamp. An image of Half Dome, along with John Muir and the California condor, appears on the California State Quarter, released in January 2005.
Why is Half Dome called Half Dome?
Others say Ahwahneechee Native Americans named Half Dome "Face of a Young Woman Stained with Tears" ("Tis-se’-yak") because of the colonies of brown-black lichens that form dark vertical drip-like stripes along drainage tracks in the rock faces. Was used as the logo for software company, Sierra On-Line.
What is the name of the mother in Half Dome?
Tis-sa-ack is the name of a mother from a native legend. The face seen in Half Dome is supposed to be hers. Tis-sa-ack is the name of a Mono Lake Paiute girl in the Yosemite Native American legend. John Muir referred to the peak as "Tissiack". Muir also referred to it as "South Dome" in his "The Yosemite" book.
What is Half Dome?
Half Dome was originally called " Tis-sa-ack ", meaning Cleft Rock in the language of the local Ahwahnechee people. Tis-sa-ack is also the name of the fourth route on the formation, ascended by Royal Robbins and Don Peterson over eight days in October 1969. Tis-sa-ack is the name of a mother from a native legend. The face seen in Half Dome is supposed to be hers. Tis-sa-ack is the name of a Mono Lake Paiute girl in the Yosemite Native American legend. John Muir referred to the peak as "Tissiack". Muir also referred to it as "South Dome" in his "The Yosemite" book.
How far is the Half Dome Cable Route?
The Half Dome Cable Route hike runs from the valley floor to the top of the dome in 8.2 mi (13 km) (via the Mist Trail), with 4,800 ft (1,460 m) of elevation gain.
Where to hike Half Dome?
The hike can be done from the valley floor in a single long day, but many people break it up by camping overnight in Little Yosemite Valley. The trail climbs past Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, then continues into Little Yosemite Valley, then north to the base of the northeast ridge of Half Dome itself.
How tall is the granite crest in the park?
The granite crest rises more than 4,737 ft (1,444 m) above the valley floor.
