Rising 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and over 8,000 feet above sea level Half Dome is a Yosemite icon. In 1865 a report stated it was totally inaccessible and would never be touched by human feet.
But you can hike it today…if you are in shape and up for the 14 mile round trip hike. Keep in mind you will gain about 4,800 feet on your trek. Rangers assist hundreds each year who thought they could make it. The last part of the ascent, about 400 feet, is over a series of pre-hung cables. Permits are required to climb this amazing piece of granite.