Beneath the Granite Sky: A 5‑Day Guided Trek to Half Dome and Clouds Rest
A guided, backcountry push through Yosemite’s high granite — summit cables, alpine ridgelines, and star-lit campsites
On the second morning, before the valley shakes itself awake, your headlamp cuts a cone of light through fir and dogwood. Overnight mist clings to the leaves like a secret. Above the trees, the slabs of Half Dome are already pale as bone, the summit line the first place the sun touches. There is a quiet hum of preparation from the small group — tugging on gaiters, adjusting packs, checking that the stove fuel is secure. In Yosemite, the landscape has a rhythm; it moves you forward and tests the ways you respond.
Trail Wisdom
Respect the cables
When the Half Dome cables are in place, use three points of contact, wear gloves if you have them, and plan for queueing during busy hours.
Hydrate and filter
Carry at least 2–3 liters and a reliable treatment method; water sources are frequent but can require filtering.
Start summit days before dawn
Early starts avoid afternoon storms and crowds and give you cooler hiking conditions on exposed granite.
Respect wildlife and food storage rules
Use provided bear canisters for food and store all scented items; Yosemite enforces strict food storage to protect wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise from Glacier Point for a different angle on Half Dome
- •Hike to Dewey Point for an uncrowded sunset view of the valley
Wildlife
American Black Bear, Mule Deer
Conservation Note
Yosemite enforces strict food-storage rules and wilderness permit limits; guided trips help minimize impact through leave-no-trace practices and bear-resistant gear.
Half Dome’s cable route was first installed in 1919; Yosemite’s valley and high country have long been home to the Ahwahnechee people.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Waterfall viewing, Wildflower displays
Challenges: High snowpack and trail closures, Cold nights and muddy approaches
Spring floods valley waterfalls into their peak run; some high-country routes and Tioga Road may still be closed depending on snowmelt, and Half Dome cables may not yet be installed.
summer
Best for: Cable season on Half Dome, Stable alpine weather
Challenges: Crowds in the valley, Afternoon thunderstorms
Late summer is the most reliable season for summit bids; expect warm days, cold nights, and the need to start very early to avoid storms and heat.
fall
Best for: Clear air and fewer crowds, Crisp mornings for summit photos
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Possible early snow at higher elevations
Early fall often offers the clearest views and lighter crowds; temperatures drop at night and some services may be reduced.
winter
Best for: Snow-scene photography, Low visitor numbers in valley
Challenges: Snow and ice on routes, Closed roads and no cable access
Winter conditions make this itinerary impractical and technical; expect snow, limited services, and the need for alpine gear and experience.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Aggressive sole and ankle support make polished granite and long descents manageable.
3–4 season backpack (40–60L)Essential
Enough capacity for overnight gear, layers, and personal items; ensure a good fit for long carries.
Headlamp with extra batteriesEssential
Early starts and camp tasks require reliable hands-free light.
Lightweight rain shellEssential
Weather in the Sierra can change quickly; a shell keeps you dry and comfortable during showers.
Common Questions
Is a Half Dome permit required?
Yes — when the cables are up a Half Dome permit is required for the summit; this guided trip includes the necessary permits.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable hiking multiple days with a loaded pack and able to complete long summit days of 10–16 hours; prior multi-day backpacking experience is recommended.
What gear is included?
The operator includes tents, bear canisters, trekking poles, and some rental gear; participants should confirm exact inclusions and bring personal items like boots and layers.
Are the cables on Half Dome safe?
Cables are maintained seasonally and offer a managed route; they can be slick when wet and require careful movement and patience during busy periods.
Will I see wildlife?
Yes — black bears, mule deer, and smaller mammals are common; keep a safe distance and follow food storage rules.
What about altitude sickness?
Yosemite Valley sits around 4,000 feet and Cloud’s Rest reaches nearly 9,900 feet; allow for hydration, pacing, and communicate any symptoms to guides promptly.
What to Pack
Water reservoir (2–3L) for summit days; sturdy hiking boots for granite; layered insulation (fleece + down) for cold nights; lightweight rain shell for sudden storms
Did You Know
The original cables on Half Dome were installed in 1919 to make the summit more accessible; the rock itself was sculpted by glaciation carving away at the Sierra’s uplifted granite.
Quick Travel Tips
Book Half Dome permits well in advance; start summit days before dawn; plan for limited cell service in the high country; verify what rental gear the operator provides before arrival
Local Flavor
After the trip, reserve a table at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (The Ahwahnee) dining room for a historic post-hike meal. For quicker fare, Degnan’s Deli in Yosemite Village has reliable sandwiches and coffee. If staying in Mariposa, try a local brewpub and farm-to-table options to sample Sierra foothill hospitality.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) ~1.5–2 hours drive; Driving distance from Yosemite Valley lodging: 0–30 minutes to most trailheads; Cell service: limited in backcountry, reliable in valley areas; Permits: Park entrance fee plus Wilderness permit and Half Dome permit (cable season) — this guided trip includes required permits.
Sustainability Note
This trip uses bear-resistant containers and adheres to wilderness permit limits; pack out all trash, avoid creating new campsites, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile alpine environments.