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- Half Dome
8,840 ft · Sierra Nevada, California
Half Dome
Half Dome is an 8,840 ft peak in the Sierra Nevada, California. The standard route is the Cables Route: 16 mi, 7,135 ft of gain, Class 3.
Half Dome at a glance
- Elevation8,840 ft2,694 m
- RouteCables RouteClass 3
- Distance16 mi7,135 ft gain
- Time15 – 17 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeSierra NevadaCalifornia
Climbing the Cables Route
In Yosemite Valley, park at the trailhead lot near Half Dome Village or ride the free shuttle to Happy Isles. Climb the Mist Trail or the John Muir Trail past Vernal and Nevada Falls to Little Yosemite Valley, then up through forest to the subdome steps and the cables, a steep Class 3 granite ramp. The cables are up from late May to mid-October. Never go up wet rock or with storms nearby, as lightning strikes the summit. Bring gloves, a headlamp and lots of water, and start before sunrise. A Half Dome permit is required, won in the March preseason lottery or a daily lottery.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Helmet
What to watch for
- Storms
- Steep exposure
- Slippery terrain
- Dry conditions
Quests with Half Dome
Sierra Peaks SectionFrequently asked questions
How tall is Half Dome?
Half Dome is 8,840 feet (2,694 m) tall. It is in the Sierra Nevada, California.
How hard is it to climb Half Dome?
The Cables Route is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 16 miles with 7,135 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Half Dome?
Most people take 15 – 17 hours round trip on the Cables Route, covering 16 miles with 7,135 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Half Dome dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a helmet for Half Dome?
It is a good idea. The scrambling has rock overhead on the Cables Route, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb Half Dome?
The usual climbing window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Half Dome with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list