How long does it take to climb the cables at Half Dome?

How long does it take to climb the cables at Half Dome? It took us roughly 20 minutes to climb the 400 feet up the Half Dome cables. With very few people in front of us, we only had to take several short breaks as other hikers climbed down past us.

What is the best month to hike Half Dome?

Best Time to Visit: You can't climb Half Dome unless the cables are up, which is generally from late May or early June through Columbus Day weekend in October. The waterfalls will be better the earlier in the year you go. Avoid Half Dome on days when there are thunder clouds in the area - it's not worth the risk.

How much does it cost to climb Half Dome?

The cost for Half Dome permits is $10 per person, payable at a wilderness center the day of or day before your trip, and is therefore not refundable.

What is the hardest part of Half Dome hike?

Difficulty Of The Half Dome Trail If you are not comfortable with heights, you may want to avoid the cable route. Hikers report this being the most difficult section of the hike.

Is Half Dome a difficult hike?

Difficulty: Extreme. It's long, steep at the beginning and end, and more dangerous than most Yosemite hikes. It's probably the most difficult of all Yosemite day hikes.

Can a beginner climb Half Dome?

The National Parks Service describes Half Dome as the most strenuous day hike in Yosemite, and probably the toughest (recommended) day hike in any National Park. So while you can certainly just show up and give the hike a go, you'll enjoy it more if your fitness level is up to snuff.

Is Angels Landing or Half Dome scarier?

The National Park Service considers ascending the 4,800 feet and traveling the minimum 14.5 miles to Half Dome's summit, “one of the most challenging day hikes in any national park.” Measured by vertical ascent, hiking Half Dome is roughly three times as challenging as hiking Angels Landing, and even includes a 7-mile ...

How many people died on Angels Landing?

So how many people have died on Angels Landing? As of 2023, at least 17 confirmed deaths have happened on the Angels Landing hike, and some sources put that figure closer to 20 deaths. Most of these were falls from steep cliffs.

What is the easiest rock climb up Half Dome?

Supertopo says: Snake Dike is the easiest technical climbing route to the top of Half Dome, the most recognized rock feature in the United States.