Up the Cable: Conquering Half Dome and the High Sierra Moment That Sticks With You
A high-stakes day hike that repays grit with 360-degree Sierra vistas and a summit that feels earned.
The morning fog peels back like a curtain and the valley exhales. Pines scrape the blue; granite glows honey-gold as the sun finds the domes and ridges of Yosemite. On the trail, breath comes in a steady, purposeful rhythm—two steps, plant the pole, breathe—because Half Dome doesn’t hand out views, it demands the currency of effort. By the time you round the last switchback and the cables come into sight, the valley below has rearranged itself into an audience: El Capitan standing solemn, the Merced River threading silver, and clouds drifting like props on a stage. The final stretch—two braided cables bolted into polished granite—asks for a different kind of attention. Grip, plant your feet, and let the rock do the rest.
Trail Wisdom
Start before sunrise
Beat heat, thunderstorms, and crowds by leaving the valley before dawn; most people finish the cables by late morning when conditions are best.
Bring cable gloves
Leather or synthetic grip gloves protect your hands on the cables and improve your hold on the polished steel.
Hydrate and treat water
Carry 3–4 liters and a filter or purification method; water sources are seasonal and saves weight only if you know they’re flowing.
Respect permit rules
You must have a Half Dome permit for the cables—guided trips often include this, but day hikers must secure one in advance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Granite waterslides on lower-elevation creeks near the Merced River (seasonal)
- •Sunrise from Clouds Rest for a different perspective of Half Dome
Wildlife
American black bear, Mule deer
Conservation Note
Yosemite manages Half Dome access through permits and education to reduce crowding and protect fragile alpine environments; practice Leave No Trace and store food in bear-resistant containers.
George G. Anderson made the first recorded ascent of Half Dome’s summit in 1875 after drilling iron eye-bolts into the final headwall; his solution enabled future visitors to reach the top.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Waterfall viewing, Wildflower displays, Fewer crowds early season
Challenges: Late snow and icy patches, Cables may not yet be installed
Spring brings roaring waterfalls and wildflowers, but expect lingering snow at higher elevations and possible closures to the cable section until conditions are safe.
summer
Best for: Cables in place, Stable weather, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Largest crowds on weekends
Summer offers the most reliable access to the cables and warm temperatures—start early to avoid storms and the bulk of hikers.
fall
Best for: Cooler temps, Clear skies, Spectacular light for photography
Challenges: Shortening days, Potential early snow late season
Early fall is often ideal: quieter trails, crisp air, and excellent visibility—just watch for seasonal trail or cable closures as weather turns.
winter
Best for: Solitude, Snow-clad scenery, Backcountry mountaineering
Challenges: Closed cables, Snow and ice requiring technical gear
Winter makes Half Dome a technical objective; expect icy access, and only attempt with the right equipment and experience.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Support and traction are critical on steep, wet sections and the final polished granite.
Gloves for cablesEssential
Protects hands and provides better grip on the steel cables.
3–4L hydration system or water filterEssential
Keeps you hydrated over a long day; filters allow refilling from reliable streams.
Headlamp
Useful for pre-dawn starts or unexpected delays returning after dark.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to climb Half Dome?
Yes—permits are required for the cable section. Yosemite issues permits via a seasonal lottery and daily allocations; many guided trips secure permits for participants.
How long is the hike and how much elevation gain is there?
Expect roughly 14–16 miles round trip with about 4,800 feet of elevation gain from Yosemite Valley to the summit.
When are the Half Dome cables up?
Cables are typically installed from late May through early October depending on snow and weather conditions; exact dates vary by year.
Are the cables safe for beginners?
The cables make the final ascent accessible but require comfort with exposure and secure footing; gloves and calm, steady movement are essential.
Can I climb Half Dome in winter?
Not without technical equipment and experience—winter conditions often render the route a technical rock or mixed climb and the cables are usually removed.
Should I go with a guide or solo?
Guides simplify permits, logistics, and safety; choose a guided trip if you're inexperienced with long alpine days or prefer a permit-inclusive itinerary.
What to Pack
Hiking boots (support on polished granite), gloves (for cable protection), 3L+ water or filter (hydration for long day), layered jacket (temperature swings and storms)
Did You Know
The first recorded ascent of Half Dome’s summit was by George G. Anderson in 1875, who used hand-drilled iron eye-bolts in the headwall—those initial bolts made the route accessible for generations to come.
Quick Travel Tips
Book permits or a guided trip early; plan a pre-dawn start to avoid storms; carry 3–4 liters of water and a filter; practice steep elevation hikes beforehand.
Local Flavor
Yosemite Valley’s small community centers on park hospitality—rangers, local guiding outfits, and valley cafeterias offer stories as much as meals. Try a post-hike meal in Yosemite Valley and listen for local trail recommendations—many of the best side trips aren’t on the main map.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance: 14–16 miles RT | Elevation gain: ~4,800 ft | Summit elevation: 8,836 ft | Permit required for cables | Typical time: 10–14 hours | Best start: pre-dawn
Sustainability Note
Stick to established trails, pack out all waste, use bear-resistant storage, and consider guided trips that include leave-no-trace practices to minimize impact on fragile alpine ecosystems.