Five Days Above the Valley: Cathedral Lakes, Clouds Rest and the Half Dome Cables
Five packed days traversing alpine lakes, ridgelines and the famous Half Dome cables — a true Yosemite high-country immersion.
The first light finds you at the lip of Cathedral Lakes, where an early breeze ripples across water that reflects granite like a held breath. The camp is quiet except for the hiss of a collapsed tent zipper and the soft clink of stove hardware. A high-country smell — sun-warmed pines and dry granite dust — hangs in the air. Over the next five days you will move from this alpine hush up the spine of the Sierra: over Cathedral Pass, across the John Muir Trail, on to the ridge-smashing view from Clouds Rest (9,926 ft), and finally up the cables of Half Dome (8,836 ft), descending the Mist Trail past waterfalls that seem to dare you to look away.
Trail Wisdom
Permit First, Pack Second
Secure a Yosemite wilderness permit and the Half Dome cable permit well in advance — both are required for this itinerary.
Start Early on Summit Days
Begin before dawn for Clouds Rest and Half Dome to avoid afternoon storms and reduce cable-line wait time.
Use a Bear-Resistant Canister
Yosemite requires canisters for overnight trips — bring one and know how to pack it efficiently.
Practice the Cable Ascend
If possible, try a shorter cable or exposed scramble beforehand so you’re comfortable with the Half Dome pitch.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise at Sunrise Lakes (less crowded than Glacier Point)
- •A quiet swim spot near the lower Cathedral Lake outlet — perfect after a long day
Wildlife
Mule deer, Clark’s nutcracker
Conservation Note
Yosemite requires strict food storage and Leave No Trace practices; using designated campsites and metal food lockers reduces human-wildlife conflicts and preserves sensitive alpine meadows.
Yosemite’s landscapes inspired early conservation efforts; John Muir and others used these vistas to advocate for national park protections in the late 19th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers at lower elevations, Quieter trails early season
Challenges: Snow on passes, Variable stream crossings
Spring offers fresh water and blooming lower meadows but expect snow on higher passes and potentially heavy creek flows; check conditions.
summer
Best for: Stable weather, Full access to trails and cables
Challenges: Crowds, Hot valley temperatures
Summer is the most reliable season for dry trails and open cables, but expect busier trailheads and warm valley afternoons.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Crisp alpine views
Challenges: Shortening days, Early snow possible
Early fall gives cooler nights and clear light — ideal for photos and solitude — but be ready for colder nights and sudden weather shifts.
winter
Best for: Snow travel experience (for experts), Quiet, snowy landscapes
Challenges: Heavy snow, closed trails, Cables removed and hazardous conditions
Winter travel requires technical snow skills and is not recommended for this route without guided expertise; many sections will be impassable.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Bear-Resistant CanisterEssential
Required for food storage and mandatory for overnight stays in Yosemite backcountry.
Layered Sleeping System (20–30°F rating)Essential
High-elevation nights can be cold even in summer; a warm, compressible sleeping bag preserves comfort.
Sturdy Trail Boots with Rigid SoleEssential
Support and protection on granite slabs and talus beats lightweight trail shoes on this route.
Gloves for Cable Section
Grippy gloves protect hands on the Half Dome cables and help with brief scrambles.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit for Half Dome and overnight camping?
Yes — a Yosemite wilderness permit is required for overnight backpacking and a separate Half Dome cable permit is required for the summit ascent when cables are in place.
How difficult is the Half Dome cable section?
The cables require steady footing, no fear of exposure and the ability to manage a tethered ascent/descent; many hikers find it psychologically challenging even if not technical.
Are bear canisters required?
Yes. Yosemite requires bear-resistant canisters for overnight food storage in the backcountry; bring one and learn how to pack it efficiently.
What is typical daily mileage?
Expect to average 6–8 miles per day on a five-day itinerary, with longer summit days depending on chosen approach and campsite locations.
Is cell service available on the route?
Cell service is intermittent to non-existent in much of the high country; plan without relying on cellular communication.
When is the best time to go?
Summer into early fall (June through September) offers the most reliable trail conditions and open cables; early fall often means fewer crowds and crisp air.
What to Pack
Lightweight pack, Bear canister, Layered insulation, Sturdy boots — for weight management, food storage compliance, warmth at night, and secure footing on granite.
Did You Know
Half Dome’s summit elevation is 8,836 feet and the dome’s exposed face was largely sculpted by glaciation during the last Ice Age — a process that also carved Yosemite Valley.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Reserve wilderness and Half Dome permits well in advance; 2) Fly into Fresno (FAT) or drive from gateway towns like Mariposa; 3) Expect limited cell signal above tree line; 4) Rent a bear canister if not bringing your own.
Local Flavor
After the trip, regroup at Yosemite Valley: grab a hearty meal at the Ahwahnee Dining Room or a casual sandwich at Degnan’s Deli, and if you’re staying in Mariposa or Oakhurst, try local breweries for a post-hike beer — let the day’s silence give way to conversation.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Fresno Yosemite International (FAT, ~1.5–2 hour drive) or Sacramento (longer); Trailhead access from Yosemite Valley or Tuolumne Meadows depending on itinerary; Driving distance from Yosemite Valley to Cathedral Lakes trailhead ~30–60 minutes; Cell service patchy to none above tree line; Permits required: Yosemite wilderness permit and Half Dome cable permit; Bear-resistant canisters required.
Sustainability Note
This route traverses fragile alpine zones — use established campsites, pack out all trash, store food in approved canisters, and avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation to minimize impact.