Yosemite National Park 🏞️ Half Dome hike 17 miles r/t , 5,305 ft elevation gain , 12-14 hrs!

HALF DOME HIKE : the longest , scariest, steepest hike/climb of my life 😱🤩❤️ but it’s all worth it

The 14- to 16-mile round-trip hike to Half Dome is not for you if you're out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome. Most would say the reward is worth the effort. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and—from the shoulder and summit—panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

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. For instance, if you haven't reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. Check for sunrise and sunset times before you hike. Regardless, each person should carry a good flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (your cell phone doesn't count). Hikers commonly struggle down the trail after dark because they don't have a good light. Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them.

A permit is required to hike Half Dome when the cables are up

If you plan to hike Half Dome, you must have a permit. For day hikers, permits are available by lottery in March, with a limited number available two days in advance. Backpackers, including those who want to camp in Little Yosemite Valley, should request a Half Dome permit with their wilderness permit.