How long does it take to climb half dome. In 1865, it was reported to be inaccessible.
How long does it take to climb half dome. The RNWF of Half Dome had a large chunk of it fall off which changed the route. The last quarter mile of the hike on the sub dome requires a permit and you must climb up 400 feet along the Cable Route to reach the summit. 12 and three of 5. 12 or 5. Get the technical granite trad climbing down first. Tips for a faster hike also provided. Most of our hikes have been under 10 miles. The best time to visit the Half Dome is anytime from late May to October. We've won permits and hiked the Half Dome cables route, and here, we share everything you need to know. The two metal cables allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. We have visited many National Parks and have completed a lot of popular trails including Angels Landing in Zion. Sep 30, 2023 · Learn how to hike Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, which has it all: awe-inspiring granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and a thrilling cable route. Mar 23, 2024 · Discover the length of Half Dome hike, including distance covered, time required, and elevation gain. 3 days ago · Snake Dike is the easiest technical climbing route to the top of Half Dome, the most recognized rock feature in the United States. Jan 17, 2025 · Half Dome Statistics Mileage: 14 to 16 miles depending on which route you take Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet Summit Elevation: 8,800 feet Time to Hike: about 10 to 14 hours Number of People Who Hike Per Year: About 50,000 Are Permits Required: Yes Sections of the Half Dome Hike A long way to go to the summit of Half Dome. Jun 3, 2021 · How long does it take to climb Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. Planning Your Half Dome Hike California’s Half Dome is a crown jewel of Yosemite National Park. However, depending on the time taken for rests and to explore various sections of the trail, this time may either decrease or increase. Nov 17, 2021 · Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. If you plan on hiking during the day, it’s smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. Jul 31, 2023 · Studying up on what you need to know for the day of your Half Dome hike? Here are my top, unmissable tips and recommendations for hiking Half Dome. The cables are around a 45-55 degree grade, with wooden supports every 10 to 20 feet to rest and maintain your balance. Honnold took 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete the route, which has one short pitch of 5. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to hike Half Dome in a single day. For instance, if you haven’t reached the To climb half dome with the cables down is a once in a life bucket-list adventure! There is so much hype surrounding half dome, and for good reason. This is difficult to pick up where you don't have glacier polished granite. My husband and I hiked Half Dome on June, 13th 2024. Half Dome boasts an unreal summit, 5,000' of rise from the Yosemite Valley floor and amazing views of the Yosemite and the High Sierra. The northwest face of half dome hasn't seen a completely free ascent that I know of since the 2015 rock fall iirc. How to get a permit, hiking with kids, and lots of photos so you know what to expect. The hike involves a total ascent of 5,200 feet and reaches an elevation of 8,846 feet at the summit. It will likely take 10-12 hours to complete your Half Dome hike in Yosemite, so aim to start up the trail at sunrise (or earlier). 12a, 23 pitches) on Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. We did it on the back end of 65ish trail miles, 85 walking miles in 6 days w 55 and 35 lb packs. Hiking Half Dome Trail: how to get to the top of the famous Yosemite Peak? Tips on Half Dome hike cables, lottery and permits for the trail. from the Happy Isles Trailhead, which is what the National Park Service recommends. The Half Dome Hike in Yosemite National Park is easily among the most iconic and challenging in the United States. Aug 18, 2021 · How hard is it to climb Half Dome? The trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike covering over 17 miles. This hike will test you physically and mentally as you climb the last quarter-mile of trail and ascend the sheer flank of Half Dome using bolted cables. So you wanna hike Half Dome? Great, so do about 1,000 other people every day during peak season. Make sure you remember your permits for the cables (and your gloves). This guide covers absolutely everything you need to know to attempt a safe summit up the trail: from where to park, to what to pack, to training, to even tips-and-tricks for tackling the cables on the Half Dome summit. I did not submit a lottery permit request in the main March period as I didn't know my availability in Yosemite at that time. Also, proficiency in Valley climbing is proficiency in all crack sizes and slick slab/face climbing. WHEN,WHERE, HOW, AND ABOUT HIKING THE GREAT YOSEMITE HALF DOME. You need a Half Dome Cables Route permit for half the year, but technically, you can hike it any time (weather permitting). Hi all, How long does it take a fit person to reach the top of half dome? Everything I read says about 10 hours, but I assume it isn't 5 there and… Oct 7, 2021 · The Half Dome Cables Route There are a lot of unique things about hiking the Half Dome Cables Route — it’s long, grueling, and iconic, for starters — but one in particular stands out. Jul 4, 2023 · How Long Does It Take To Hike To Half Dome At Yosemite? Can Anyone Do It? The hike to Half Dome is anywhere from 14 to 17 miles. Of course, the closer you can get to the actual distance/elevation of Half Dome (~16 miles and ~5000ft gain) the better, easier, and more confident you will be. 4 miles up stone cut stairs, past the famous Vernal and Nevada waterfalls. The final ascent of The Cables Route involves climbing the Half Dome cables, which consist of two steel cables bolted into the granite to help hikers up the steep slope to the summit. Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. I read advice on Reddit and elsewhere both before and after my hike and felt I could share some helpful information. Dec 21, 2021 · Half Dome is a rock formation that rises up 4,737 feet (1,444 m) at Yosemite National Park in California. The trek up the underrated sub-dome is no joke and I hiked Half Dome successfully in late June as a day hike. How hard is the Half Dome hike? Yosemite National Park calls it "maybe the most strenuous day hike in any park," but it's doable by most people with the right Jan 30, 2025 · How Long Does It Take To Hike Half Dome? On average, it takes a fit person between 10-14 hours to hike Half Dome. However, injuries are not uncommon for those acting irresponsibly. 12a. The hike up this Yosemite icon features incredible mountain and valley views, wildflowers, waterfalls, old-growth sequoias, and Nov 22, 2021 · How long does it take to free climb Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. 💥 Watch First: • Don't Hike Half Dome (Do This Instead) 🗺 MAPS & HIKE LINKS: https://bit. Half Dome FAQ: Answers to our clients’ most frequently asked Half Dome Questions Over the past 25 years, we’ve led thousands of clients to the summit of Half Dome. Here’s a list of Half Dome FAQ’s that come up on our adventures! Half Dome Hike FAQ When is the best time of year to summit Half Dome? Climbing Half Dome will take you dizzying heights with its sheer face and reward you with unparalleled views you’ll remember for a lifetime. There are several routes to reach the summit of Half Dome. What is the Best Time of Day to Hike Half Dome? EARLY—and by early, I do not mean starting at 5:30 a. Jan 24, 2024 · How Long It Takes To Hike Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. Sep 21, 2022 · This is your complete guide to the Half Dome Hike Yosemite National Park! You will find all essentials, tips, and info you will need. In 1865, it was reported to be inaccessible. However, if you are on the Half Dome hiking cables when it is crowded, it can take 45 minutes to reach the summit. You may know it from an image on your screen saver. You might be able to make it to the top without any training, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Jun 3, 2021 · How long does it take to hike Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. This dramatic setting, combined with clean and exposed climbing, makes Snake Dike one of the most glorious moderate climbs on the Nov 22, 2021 · Can you free climb Half Dome? The 24-pitch free climb they did in 1976, with four pitches of 5. Wild, airy, and not for the faint of heart. How long does it take to hike the Half Dome? The duration it takes to hike Half Dome can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your starting point, hiking experience, fitness level, and weather conditions. 4. Jan 25, 2007 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Here’s a list of Half Dome FAQ’s that come up on our adventures! Half Dome Hike FAQ When is the best time of year to summit […] Discover how to prepare for the challenging Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park. It takes most day hikers 10-14 hours to finish this hike, depending on factors like the group’s fitness level, weather, and even trail maintenance. Half Dome Standing tall above all of the other cliffs, peaks, walls, domes, and waterfalls in the Yosemite Valley (known as THE valley to climbers all over the world) is perhaps the most iconic cliff in America, the face of Half Dome. 12a and several pitches of 5. Jun 18, 2023 · Planning to hike Half Dome? This guide covers permits, training tips, essential gear, and everything you need to climb this iconic hike! So, how long does it take a person to hike Half Dome in Yosemite National Park? The Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park, California, is a 17 mile out and back trail that takes eight to ten hours. We hike mostly on vacations and with our kids. 2 miles for side trip to top of Indian Rock) Elevation Change: 600-ft descent from Tioga Road to North Dome with 500-ft of ups and downs along the way (plus 300-ft gain for side trip to top of Indian Rock). . I say this because The Cables on Half Dome can become an unenjoyable bottleneck by 8:30–9:00 a. Do you hike a lot? Do you have experience hiking in elevation? Being fit doesn’t equal good at hiking. The total length of the hike depends on the route you take back and how long you spend on the summit. The part of this journey that makes the ascent up Half Dome famous is the cable route. [Tweet “Do you want climb Yosemite’s Half Dome with energy to spare? “] Finally, have a wonderful time at Half Dome! We did, and I hope you will share with me your exciting adventure! Do you have an adventure planned? I challenge you this week to think about a challenge for yourself. ly/half-dome-guide 🥾 LATEST GEAR LIST: https://hikingguy. For instance, if you haven’t reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. See full list on nps. Half Dome is a serious endurance hike taking you 4,800 feet above the Yosemite Valley to spectacular views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, the Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. Half Dome Elevation: 8,846 feet (2,696 meters) Total Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet (1,600 meters) from Yosemite Valley Hiking Time: 10 - 14 hours Why climb the trail to Half Dome? 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. Making this hike requires preparation, good physical condition, and excellent hiking skills, as it is a long hike through steep terrain, but you'll be rewarded Aug 18, 2021 · How long does it take to climb the cables at Half Dome? The Half Dome Cable Hike will take hikers about 10 – 12 hours to complete, there and back, depending on skill level and weather. A must read for any aspiring Half Dome hiker! May 23, 2025 · The Half Dome hike is the single most epic hike in California’s Yosemite National Park, with a thrilling and scary cables section at the end of the trail that leads you to panoramic views of the entire Yosemite valley! Half Dome is normally accessed by the popular Mist Trail, where you’ll get to see two big waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and other scenery along the Merced River. This is Aug 15, 2024 · Best Time To Hike The National Park Service installs the cables on Half Dome around Memorial Day (late May) if conditions permit and takes them down around the first week in October. Throughout the hiking portion you experience massive waterfalls, giant boulder fields, lush forests, roaming wildlife, and raging rivers! Each and every turn brings new scenery and a new experience. If you’re planning to tackle this challenging hike for the first time, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable adventure. Nov 17, 2021 · How long does it take to climb Half Dome cables? The Half Dome Cable Hike will take hikers about 10 – 12 hours to complete, there and back, depending on skill level and weather. This is one of the longest and steepest day hikes in Yosemite. Most people do the hike in a day, but you can also camp and break it up. m. First you climb the beautiful Mist Trail for 5. Nov 22, 2021 · How long does it take to climb Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. Half Dome has an elevation gain of 4 800 feet. 9 C1 - Yosemite Valley, California USA. The Half Dome is a 14-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 4,800ft. Jul 13, 2022 · This hike alone is considered challenging, but this is just one portion of your climb up to the top of Half Dome. Sep 11, 2024 · Contemplating the Half Dome hike in Yosemite? I've hiked hundreds of national park trails in my day - here's why I don't recommend it. Jun 7, 2017 · Alex Honnold has done the unthinkable; on June 3, he completed the first-ever free solo of El Capitan, climbing the wall via Freerider. It was first climbed in 1957 by a team consisting of Royal Robbins, Mike Sherrick, and Jerry Gallwas. 11, was probably then the most difficult long free climb in Yosemite. 12 for the free climbing variation. Most people spend 10–12 hours hiking up and down the peak. Many people opt Jul 9, 2017 · Climbing the Half Dome cables in Yosemite is a challenging experience. Half Dome Cables The most famous—or infamous—part of the hike is the ascent up the cables. Nov 22, 2021 · How long does it take to climb the Half Dome? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. gov Quick What To Expect 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. You noted you plan on doing it soon, meaning the cables are down. Learn how to hike Half Dome with our complete guide including when to go, how to get permits, what to bring, and tips on how to prepare. Nov 22, 2021 · How long did it take Alex to climb Half Dome? Alex Honnold has free-soloed the Regular Northwest Face (VI 5. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions and firm dates. Half Dome was the most strenuous hike we have ever attempted. It took our group 15 hours to complete this hike and some members of the Jul 16, 2017 · How to hike Half Dome in Yosemite NP step-by-step. If you want to camp in Little Yosemite Valley or elsewhere on the way to Half Dome, you should apply for a wilderness permit that includes Half Dome rather than using the process described on this page. Often considered one of the very best hikes in the park, this path is incredibly scenic as it climbs 2,000 feet up and passes multiple water features. I really don't know how it has increased the difficulty of the route so you should do some research. To actually enjoy the hike, I would say that being able to comfortably hike 10-12 miles with 3000-4000ft elevation gain is a good barometer for Half-Dome. Two steel cables allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. The Half Dome cables are the crowning achievement of one of the most famous hikes in Yosemite National Park, the Half Dome Hike. 5 hrs enjoying the view Don’t take this the wrong way but, based on your post and questions, it seems you’ve done very little research on Half Dome, which is concerning. Jul 5, 2024 · The Half Dome lottery and permit system can be quite confusing, but we've got you covered. Nov 17, 2021 · How long does it take to climb the cables at Half Dome? The Half Dome Cable Hike will take hikers about 10 – 12 hours to complete, there and back, depending on skill level and weather. May 11, 2023 · Most hikers take 10-14 hours to complete this. 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. Coming at the far end of a 14 to 16-mile (22. Oct 3, 2018 · Trained in a climbing gym in Sacramento, Honnold, 31, burst onto the international scene in 2008 with two high-risk, rope-free ascents—the northwest face of Yosemite ’s Half Dome and the Jul 4, 2024 · Getting to the top of Half Dome is intense. First, the two trails leading up to Half Dome (Muir and Mist) are different lengths, with the That’s a completely subjective question. 5 – 26 km) round-trip hike, the infamous Half Dome cables span the last 400 feet of the 4,800-foot (nearly 1500 m) elevation gain from Yosemite Valley. I have fortunately experienced this hike on two separate trips and the prep work definitely helped me reach the summit. Its current aid climbing rating is VI 5. As long as the cables are up, you have a permit, and the weather is safe, you can climb Half Dome. Jan 14, 2025 · The Half Dome Hike in California is one of Yosemite National Parks most well-known & popular hiking trails (and for a good reason). How long does it take to climb the face of half dome? Updated: 10/16/2024 Wiki User ∙ 12y ago YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK HIKE TO HALF DOME HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR THE AVERAGE HIKER. Jun 3, 2021 · How long does it take to climb Half Dome cables? The Half Dome Cable Hike will take hikers about 10 – 12 hours to complete, there and back, depending on skill level and weather. You'll Pass Vernal Falls and Little Yosemite Valley Campground en route to summit Half Dome. As far as physical ability goes, you need an incredible base of endurance and more importantly yosemite technique big wall know how. In later years, new variations were discovered by other climbers which allowed a free ascent at only 5. Hiking guide and photos for the strenuous and amazing hike up to the summit of Half Dome via the Mist Trail and the intimidating cables route. Apr 30, 2025 · Half Dome FAQ Half Dome FAQ: Answers to our clients’ most frequently asked Half Dome Questions Over the past 25 years, we’ve led thousands of clients to the summit of Half Dome. Nov 17, 2021 · How long is North Dome hike Yosemite? 10 miles Rating: Fairly strenuous day hike Length: 10 miles to North Dome and back (plus 1. Jun 3, 2021 · How long does it take to climb the cables at Half Dome? The Half Dome Cable Hike will take hikers about 10 – 12 hours to complete, there and back, depending on skill level and weather. TIPS ON HIKING YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK'S HALF DOME. Apr 30, 2025 · What’s the Half Dome trail like? For the most part, the hike is uphill one way and downhill on the return, with some even terrain in the middle (but not much). [1] It is recognized in the historic climbing text Fifty Classic Climbs of North America and Mar 9, 2023 · How Long Does it Take to Hike Half Dome? The average hiker takes 10-14 hours to complete the hike to Half Dome and back, including breaks and time at the summit. Half Dome, one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic landmarks, attracts thousands of hikers each year. Do you have mountaineering/climbing experience? Note the trail there will be covered in snow once you climb out of the valley and you’ll need to secure yourself to get up Half Dec 23, 2024 · The answer to the question of how long does it take to hike the half dome trail can be approximately 10-12 hours (as a whole). Just did Half Dome for the first time but we had a backcountry permit so can't answer as a day hike. Learn more. Secure a permit, train for the 14-16 mile trek, and navigate the steep cables to enjoy breathtaking views from the summit. The Half Dome cables usually go back up the Friday Nov 4, 2023 · Half Dome is a long, difficult hike- I won’t sugar coat it for you. The Cable Route is what draws many people into hiking Half Dome, but the granite surface has become slick after hundreds of thousands of visitors have trekked to the top. In this video, we will discuss everything you need to know about hiking Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. If you aren't sending 12b on single pitch granite trad you ain't doing it on half dome. and throughout much of the afternoon, as the vast majority of permit holders all arrive within a specific Jun 2, 2025 · My Half Dome packing list covers everything I brought (and wish I had) so you can hike confidently with the right gear and zero guesswork. I started running regularly at the Jun 3, 2025 · A Half Dome permit does not include any camping before, during, or after your hike. See what it is really like in photos plus things to know before you go. 5 hours from my cabin at Curry village to reach the summit going up the Mist trail, . Planning, including getting the appropriate gear, is essential before embarking on this adventure. Jun 24, 2025 · This iconic Yosemite National Park hike departs from the Mist Trailhead in Yosemite Valley. We are both in relatively good shape. Jun 3, 2021 · Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. The infamous Half Dome; we have all seen pictures, some of us have heard stories, and the lucky ones have experienced it firsthand. Time: 12 hours (with many stops for photos and time enjoying the view at the top!) Ascent: around 5000 ft / 1524 m Difficulty: Strenuous—a long, severely uphill hike and then the cables as a final sucker punch… and then back down! Half Dome Permits There are 3 ways to get Half Dome Permits, each with varying degrees of certainty. Its distinctive shape and breathtaking views make it a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Have the group establish a firm time at which you will turn around, regardless of where you are. 9 A1 or 5. Although it is known to be a very challenging hike, it is also a popular one, meaning the trails are busy all through the summer. The best way to the RNWF is in one Jun 11, 2024 · Looking for the ultimate Yosemite day hike? Half Dome is one for your hiking bucket list and is easily one of the most famous in Yosemite National Park. You can technically hike Half Dome when The Regular Northwest Face of Half Dome was the first Grade VI big wall climbing route in the United States. Regarding how long it takes to hike Half Dome at Yosemite National Park, this vastly differs by the traveler. 11+. I decided to take my chances with the 48-hour lottery as I would be staying in Yosemite Valley Many opt to hike in and spend the night in Little Yosemite Valley and day hike to Half Dome so the hike is shorter, and you won't have to carry a heavy pack. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. com/best-hiking-gear/more How Long Does It Take To Climb Half Dome: One Best Hike: Yosemite's Half Dome Rick Deutsch,2012-04-10 Successfully hike Yosemite s most famous landmark with the guide that helps you prepare and provides the details you need to know Getting to the top of Yosemite National Park s Half Dome in California is one of America s epic day hikes Starting in Yosemite Valley you ll ascend nearly one Nov 17, 2021 · How long does it take to hike Half Dome in Yosemite? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. From the distance and elevation to essential tips for preparation, we cover it all. What is the easiest climbing route on Nov 17, 2021 · How long does Half Dome hike take? Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. Yes, people do Half Dome as a day trip very frequently, assuming they’ve obtained a permit to complete the hike. Jul 14, 2010 · Get route beta and reviews from other climbers regarding: Half Dome - Regular Northwest Face 5. At 14 miles long round trip, winding past some of Yosemite’s most spectacular views, the final ascent up 400 feet of steel cables staked into Half Dome’s backside has become famous for all the right, as well as all the wrong reasons. This time is going to vary depending on the route that you take, the ability of your group, the wait and line at the cables, and how long you want to spend looking around once you’ve reached the summit. Originally, I was outfitted to hike half dome, then return via Glacier Point to do some astrophotography. Undertakers of this trail will be rewarded with views of Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and of course, Half Dome. Since 1919, relatively few people have fallen and died on the cables. cefvvsyhijrfudklswrwgxeylwzsmpjhmfihwykswpxbhmybfnwoqtqfoe