My last attempt to climb Half Dome was doomed to our bad planning, and I had written that I would go back to the top. Well, I got that chance this last weekend and we did manage to make it all the way to the top.
The trip didn’t start out very well. My friend was flying in from San Diego Friday night and his flight was delayed by 3 hours. We ended up leaving the Bay Area at 11.30 pm. Yes, we were determined to make it work this time. After a quick nap and shower in Mariposa, we were off on the hike just as the sun was rising. Yosemite valley is breathtaking any time of the day or year; but the beauty at dawn is at yet another level. I wish I could have captured on camera the splendor of El Capitan at that time of the day.
Anyways, it was much easier this time – we made good time, stopping for water and nourishment. This was a marked improvement over the huffing and puffing of last time. I guess the recent Lassen hikes and cycling has improved my fitness in minuscule amounts.
As is well documented, the Half Dome hike is interesting and challenging from the valley floor to Nevada Falls up the Mist Trail. This 2.5 mile stretch is fairly steep, narrow and very close to the falls. Its infinitely better than the longer, easier and soporific John Muir trail. From Nevada falls though, I found it very frustrating as it is full of endless switchbacks through monotonous jungle and shrubbery. The trail climbs consistently and relentlessly without any view of the dome. This is the part that really tests your motivation and stamina, since it also usually coincides with noon when the sun is beating down upon you.
As a final gift from Nature, you have to navigate this really steep, almost vertical rock face to reach the face dome. I dubbed it the “Elevator”, although its not as bad as it looks since there a few rocks and steps to help you ascend. After going through all of this, when all the muscles in your body are aching, and you have discovered pain in places you did not know existed, you reach the base of the dome. In summer, this place is like Cancun in spring break – just as crowded but without the parties. The cables look intimidating but again aren’t as bad as they look. The worst part is dealing with the crowds and the wait for people ahead of you. The final two sections (along with the Nevada and Vernal falls sections) are definitely not for those with acrophobia.
The views from the top are amazing, and the entire hike is totally worth it in-spite of the strenuousness. Do it if you can.
