Half Dome: Yosemite's Iconic Granite Monolith
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Half Dome, a giant granite dome in Yosemite National Park, is famous for its challenging hike and stunning views. A symbol of Yosemite, it attracts adventurers and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Half Dome
- California, US
Local tips
- Obtain permits well in advance through the lottery system, as they are required to ascend the cables on Half Dome.
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and potential afternoon thunderstorms.
- Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks to fuel your strenuous hike.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction, as the trail can be steep and slippery in places.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the summit can be significantly cooler and windier than the valley floor.
Getting There
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Shuttle
From Yosemite Valley, take the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle (route depends on season, check current park information) to the trailhead at Happy Isles. From Happy Isles, the trail to Half Dome is well-marked, but it's a strenuous 14-16 mile round trip hike. Shuttle is free.
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Walking
If you are camping in or near Curry Village (also known as Half Dome Village), you can walk to the Happy Isles trailhead. Follow the paved path along the Merced River towards the east end of the valley. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and will take around 30-40 minutes. From there, the Half Dome trail begins. No cost.
Discover more about Half Dome
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vernal Falls Footbridge
2.7 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Curry Village
3.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
The Ahwahnee
3.6 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Housekeeping Camp
4.1 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
4.7 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Cemetery
4.9 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
5.7 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Four Mile Trailhead
6.2 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
6.7 km
Hike the historic Yosemite Valley Loop Trail for iconic views, serene meadows, and a peaceful escape on the valley floor.
El Capitan Picnic Area
7.9 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Olmsted Point
8.4 km
Experience Yosemite's iconic views of Half Dome and Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point, a roadside vista named for famed landscape architects.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
8.5 km
A scenic picnic spot in Yosemite Valley with stunning El Capitan views and Merced River access, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
El Capitan Trail
9.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a world-renowned rock climbing destination and a symbol of nature's majesty, offering year-round beauty.
El Capitan
9.3 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
El Capitan Meadow
9.4 km
Experience the awe-inspiring presence of El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith, from the serene beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite Valley.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sub dome
0.4 km
Experience the stunning views and exhilarating hikes at Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mirror Lake
1.5 km
Discover the captivating beauty of Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park, where serene reflections and stunning landscapes await nature enthusiasts.
Half Dome Trailhead
1.8 km
Experience the thrill of hiking the iconic Half Dome Trailhead in Yosemite National Park, where adventure and breathtaking views await every trekker.
Mist Trail
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Mist Trail in California, where stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes await every adventurer.
Little Yosemite Valley
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Little Yosemite Valley, a serene natural ravine in California that offers adventure, beauty, and tranquility.
Vernal Falls
2.3 km
Explore Vernal Falls, a breathtaking waterfall and scenic spot in Tuolumne Meadows, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Vernal Fall
2.3 km
Discover Vernal Fall, a stunning waterfall in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking views and invigorating hikes amidst California's natural beauty.
Nevada Fall
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Nevada Fall in Tuolumne Meadows, a natural wonder offering scenic views and unforgettable hiking experiences in Yosemite National Park.
Mirror Lake Trail
2.4 km
Explore the stunning Mirror Lake Trail in California, where serene waters meet majestic mountain views for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Happy Isles Bridge
2.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of Yosemite at Happy Isles Bridge, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and breathtaking views.
Nature Center at Happy Isles
2.9 km
Explore the Nature Center at Happy Isles in Yosemite National Park, your essential guide to the wonders of California's natural beauty.
Panorama And Pohono Trailheads
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking trails of Panorama and Pohono, where adventure and stunning views await in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows, California.
Glacier Point Trailside Museum
4.0 km
Explore the Glacier Point Trailside Museum and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich history of Yosemite National Park.
Glacier Point
4.1 km
Experience the majestic beauty of Yosemite National Park from Glacier Point, where breathtaking vistas and nature's wonders await every traveler.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
4.1 km
Explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center: A blend of nature, history, and conservation in the heart of Yosemite National Park.
Essential places to dine
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
3.4 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Seven Tents Pavilion
3.5 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
3.5 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
3.5 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Ahwahnee Bar
3.6 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
3.7 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Village Grill
4.5 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
4.6 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
5.8 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
5.8 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The Skiers Grill
14.8 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
17.1 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
21.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
25.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
31.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
3.4 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
3.5 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
3.5 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
3.6 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
3.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
4.1 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Housekeeping Camp Store
4.1 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Village Store
4.5 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
4.5 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Degnan's Deli
4.6 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Visitor Center
4.8 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
5.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
5.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Base Camp Eatery
5.8 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Starbucks Yosemite
5.8 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 1899
3.5 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
The Mountain Room Lounge
5.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Dry Creek Bar
44.7 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
44.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
45.7 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
46.6 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
48.1 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
49.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
49.5 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
49.6 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
49.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
50.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
50.6 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
50.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
51.2 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
