Half Dome

About three hours from San Francisco, Half Dome is the granite giant at the heart of Yosemite National Park in California. The trail climbs about 4,800 feet over 14 to 17 miles, ending with a near vertical ascent up the dome's back on steel cables, with nothing but open air below. From the summit, the whole of Yosemite Valley spreads out, with El Capitan and the waterfalls far below. The cables are up from late May to mid October, and the climb is not for anyone uneasy with heights.

Firsthand Pick

Why this one matters

It is Yosemite's most famous hike for a reason. The cable climb turns a long trail into a true summit, and the view from the top is the park at its grandest.

Hannah's take

Most of the hike is just forest and dirt. There is not much to look at until the last section, and then it is gorgeous. That final climb makes the whole day feel rewarding. Wear good hiking boots that will not slip if you are doing the cables. The last section also requires a permit from the lottery, so sort that out before you go.

Half Dome

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