Ridgeline
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Half Dome · Yosemite
- ✓ 14–17 mile route via Mist Trail
- ✓ Permit required · recreation.gov
- ✓ 62% rain chance · start before 5am
Free · No signup required
Type a location. Get a full hike plan with permits, weather, and gear in 30 seconds.
Half Dome · Yosemite
Free · No signup required
A real plan generated for a Half Dome day hike in Yosemite
Day Hike · 14–16 miles · Experienced · Solo · Late July
Half Dome is one of Yosemite's most iconic and rewarding day hikes, gaining roughly 4,800 feet over 14–16 miles round trip via the Mist Trail. The route passes Nevada and Vernal Falls before ascending the notorious sub-dome stairs and steel cables to the 8,842-foot summit. Permits are required and limited — but the panoramic views of Yosemite Valley make every step worth it.
Start early — trailhead by 5:30 AM
Begin at Happy Isles trailhead before sunrise to beat the heat and crowds. Follow the Mist Trail past Vernal Fall (1.5 mi) and Nevada Fall (3.5 mi). Continue through Little Yosemite Valley to the sub-dome (7 mi). Tackle the cables to the summit. Return via the John Muir Trail for a slightly easier descent. Aim to be off the cables by 2 PM.
Late July temperatures reach 90°F in the valley but drop to 50°F at the summit. Afternoon thunderstorms are common — plan to summit before noon. The cables are extremely dangerous when wet.
A Half Dome day-hike permit is required (lottery via recreation.gov, ~$10). Trailhead parking fills by 6 AM — take the valley shuttle from Curry Village instead. No dogs allowed.
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