This section allows you to walk around Half Dome in order to orient you toward the side that can actually be hiked (the side that is facing the valley is a vertical drop that attracts rock climbers from around the world). If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and experience some of Yosemite’s most spectacular backcountry scenery, this is the adventure for you! By each minute, we were getting tired from the physical exertion and the lack of sleep. They will likely give you a pass. If you are "just passing thru" on your way to the Half Dome backside Summer cables handrails, you still should be careful with your food and possible litter. Take it from someone who (just barely) made it to the top and back, successfully completing this hike requires preparation and stamina. Got back to the Valley well after dark with many mosquito bites. Small Group. Made it to sub dome and decided not to go up to Half Dome - couldn't see much and I was not prepared for that climb! For those who are wondering, Little Yosemite Village is a backpacker’s campground that is free as long as you have a permit that takes you past it; many people stay there while either doing the John Muir Trail or for getting an early start up Half-Dome before the crowds arrive from the valley. The Half Dome Cables This is what you see one you crest the Sub Dome: the iconic cables section of Half Dome. Half Dome via Little Yosemite Valley Campsite is a 6.8 mile out and back trail located near Yosemite Valley, California that offers scenic views and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. Bring LOTS of water, snacks and electrolytes. A steep uphill hike leads to Quarter Dome where rangers will check that your wilderness permit includes Half Dome. This means if you want a walk up permit for Friday night, you need to get in line at the Valley Wilderness Center early in the morning on Thursday for the 11 am release. I was backpacking, so possibly a bit slower with a heavier pack, but something to keep in mind. This is the perfect overnight option for anyone who wants to get up early and beat the Half Dome crowds. Some folks backpack to Little Yosemite Valley, camp there over night, and then hike to Half Dome the next morning, so that's an option as . A must have along The trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike covering over 17 miles. Hold on tight! This trip ends with the last afternoon and evening in Little Yosemite Valley which provides an option to summit Half Dome. Little Yosemite Valley is the most popular area in the Yosemite Wilderness, mainly because it provides easy access to Half Dome. Next, park your car at Upper Pines and REMEMBER WHERE YOU PARKED. This route is the most popular backpacking trip in the park, and therefore the permits are hardest to get. The park limits the number of hikers to around 300 people each day. Many who head to Little Yosemite Valley are thru-hikers, intent on making the full 211-mile trip to Mt. Rocky, intense incline, lots of fat squirrels. Smoky most of the day from the Blue Jay Fire until right before sunset where there was some more visibility. You can break up this hike up into two or three days by camping overnight in Little Yosemite Campground. Bring a water filter so you don’t have to carry loads of water. Le sommet se situe à plus de 1 440 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la vallée, à 2 693 mètres d'altitude. (Important) If you obtain a wilderness or backpacking permit for Half Dome, YOU MUST camp in the Little Yosemite Valley backpackers campground. Itinerary. The youngest Yosemite Valley pluton is the 87-million-year-old Half Dome granodiorite, which makes up most of the rock at Glacier Point, the Royal Arches, and its namesake, Half Dome. Amazing hike! We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. The initial portion of the trail will usually be populated with day hikers going up to the falls. I have done like 10 days of camping with a 65L. Outhouse at Little Yosemite Valley campground. Half Dome: Backpack Half Dome Via Little Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, 9/28-30. After the first night at camp, make your way to Half Dome via the Mist Trail. Climbing Half Dome. Clocking in at 17 miles round trip, 5,457 feet elevation gain, and 10-14 hours to complete, do not underestimate it. How to reach the trailhead ? Great way to experience Yosemite. After years of wanting to do this trip, i finally got a chance to backpack through Yosemite and hike to the top of Half Dome. When open, you can drive to Glacier Point by traveling on the Wawona Road (the continuation of Highway 41 within the park)either north from Wawona or south from Yosemite Valley. More Information for Your Trip to Yosemite: Stairs are relentless, but they will end. Made top in 6 hours. About a mile and a half in you will find yourself at the top of Vernal Falls. That is absolutely ridiculous for an overnight trip. The campsite is large and incredibly beautiful with 30-40 first come first serve sites set amidst the trees, alongside Sunrise Creek and just a couple minute walk from the Merced River. Amazing! Best hike that I've ever done. I summited on a Thursday morning (around 10 am) after spending the night in Little Yosemite Village. Incredible views of Yosemite from the top of Half Dome. You may apply for a wilderness permit reservation 24 weeks (168 days) prior to your trip through fax or phone. I didn't slip. Overall gradual elevation trail until sub dome. If you hate working out and hate the StairMaster even more, the Sub Dome is StairMaster set at the max level. It starts with a refreshingly flat interlude through Little Yosemite Valley, with the Merced River off to your right. It’s 400 vertical feet of climbing up slick granite, at a 45-degree angle. If you hate working out and hate the StairMaster even more, the Sub Dome is StairMaster set at the max level. From Little Yosemite Valley, the hike to the summit of Half Dome is 4.1 miles. As I climbed, the views just got more incredible. 10 total. If you'd like a Half Dome permit included in your backpacking trip, be sure to specify when making a reservation, or a first-come, first-serve wilderness permit request. – – –Little Yosemite Valley Hiking along this trail, (or if you camp overnight at Little Yosemite Valley on this trail) you will have a view of the backside of Half Dome: and further up the trail from Little Yosemite Valley to Half Dome and the cables route up, here is a view from the trail: Stopped for a swim at Little Yosemite. CONTACT US AT INFO@OUTDOORADVENTURECLUB.COM Backpack to Half Dome from Glacier Point on this 3-day full moon adventure. 7 miles (11 km) round trip from Little Yosemite Valley campground (part of the yellow line) Half Dome Elevation: 8,846 feet (2,696 meters) Total Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet (1,600 meters) from Yosemite Valley The red line marks the route of the Mist Trail, which will take you (if only! Little Yosemite Valley lies upstream from Nevada Fall, at an elevation of 6,100 feet (1,860 meters). The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. There is a bit of smoke on the trail, but visibility was nice today! Wow, 20 miles up and back. The cables on Half Dome serve as railings and spaced wooden slats on the rock provide resting spots. Little Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park: Address, Little Yosemite Valley Reviews: 3.5/5. Liberty Cap is a granite dome in Yosemite National Park, California, United States, which lies at the extreme northwestern margin of Little Yosemite Valley. Valleys. Distance to Half Dome: 4.4 mi; Pro Tip: Little Yosemite Valley is not the same things as Yosemite Valley (yes, it’s confusing). Little Yosemite Valley is a flat valley at 6200' along the Merced River, above Nevada Falls and upstream from the main Yosemite Valley. Given our camping gear's weight I wouldn't like to hike... Yosemite National Park. Hikers gain 4,800 feet of elevation along the trail that passes highlights such as Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, before reaching the cables on Half Dome’s steep granite domes. The first time I hiked half dome it took me nearly 7 hours just to make it to Little Yosemite Valley. mile from the Curry Village to the trail head as well. Breathtaking waterfalls and views. We ate dinner, relaxed and called it a night. The quota for Half Dome permits for backpackers is now 75 permits per day (50 available by reservation and 25 available one day in advance on a first-come, first-served basis at wilderness centers)." As I climbed, the views just got more incredible. A fire rises above Little Yosemite Valley near Yosemite National Park, Calif., Sept. 7, 2014. I don’t have much upper body strength and no rock climbing experience and was just fine on the cables. start at 7am and can drop you at the trailhead. On day one, hike the Mist Trail to Little Yosemite Campground (4.3 miles), on day two hike 7 miles round trip to Half Dome, and on day 3 hike back to the Yosemite Valley via the Muir or Mist trails. Sunrise, Little Yosemite Valley: Yosemite Valley- Half Dome- Tuolumne: 21.5 mi: Strenuous : Sunrise, Little Yosemite Valley: 1. Kai Schreiber. On day one, hike the Mist Trail to Little Yosemite Campground (4.3 miles), on day two hike 7 miles round trip to Half Dome, and on day 3 hike back to the Yosemite Valley via the Muir or Mist trails. Answer 1 of 6: Hi, I'm trying to decide whether is worth taking with me all my camping gear and do the Half Dome as a two days hike. Crowds are much smaller if you go during the winter, but some parts of the water might be iced over.The trailhead you take to get t... Getting There Starting in Yosemite Valley, head to the Snow Creek trailhead just past Muir Meadows. Camping elsewhere within the Half Dome area is strictly prohibited. Great hike. We beat the crowds and the heat and were able to appreciate the unbelievable stars and sunrise. When you are in the valley, don’t forget to go for a walk through the wooden pathways and take a dip in the Merced River during the summer. Option 2: Another option is to start from Yosemite Valley, but instead of trying to complete Half Dome and back in a day, to instead camp at Little Yosemite. Yosemite Valley to Half Dome (2-3 days) This strenuous hike begins and ends in Half Dome village, Yosemite Valley. The prime hiking season is late spring through fall. Little Yosemite Valley and Half Dome. Amazing Adventure. After about a 3 mile hike you will find yourself at the base of Half Dome where you will see two parallel cables pretty much going vertical. I ... but seems like a drop at Little Yosemite Valley campground before turning towards liberty lake would be feasible, then you have a bed waiting for you around 10 PM instead of 2. First-come, first-serve walk up permits are given out 1 day before your trip starting at 11 am. Together, they form a barrier on the north … HOLY SHIT HAHAH About Author Linda Ly. There are also two large communal campfire rings and a compost toilet for the entire grounds to use. Little Yosemite Campground. There's a sweet spot in thru hiking ... Also known as Tenaya Creek Falls or Three Chutes Falls, this spot is loved by locals and is definitely worth the hidden trail and scramble over rocks. I was not aclimated to the altitude and had a raging headache for the limited time I was on top. Cables were no sweat with rubberized gloves. We did it in the morning when the smoke wasn't so bad and the temperature was cooler. Stairs going down was brutal. Originally we hiked it on 8/21. Longer than advertised. I am doing this trip with a 34L (still carrying all my equipment including sleeping bag, pad, tent, cookware, food and clothing for 2 nights). If you don't get a pass via lottery just go to the Yosemite Valley visitor center, tell the clerk you are backpacking to Little Yosemite Valley and that you would like to hike up Half Dome. Today’s destination is the Little Yosemite Valley camp – which is THE base camp for Half Dome summits. View of Yosemite Valley from the top of Half Dome. It was still worth it. Starting from the floor of the Valley, we’ll attempt to summit Yosemite’s most iconic and awe inspiring landmark: Half Dome! I have done half dome both in a day trip and used Little Yosemite Valley as a base camp (and have stayed overnight on half dome!). I have to disagree about the dayhike up Half Dome being "a real grind". Once you get back to your camp you can stay another night and rest up or just pack up and head back to Upper Pines. This whole thing is amazing. View of Half Dome from Yosemite Valley. Little Yosemite Valley includes a trail to the summit of Half Dome, the High Sierra Camp by Merced Lake, and Clouds Rest spectacular views. The yellow line marks the ascent from Nevada Fall to the top of Half Dome. It’s a long day, but for good reason. Despite an 1865 report declaring that it was \"perfectly inaccessible, being probably the only one of the prominent points about the Yosemite which never has been, and never will be, trodden by human foot,\" George Anderson reached the summit in 1875, in the process laying the predecessor to today's cable route. We reached the shoulder, and climb the series of steep switchbacks with big steps carved into the granite. Hiking Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is not for the faint of heart. It lies adjacent, to the north of Nevada Fall, on the John Muir Trail at 37°43′43″N 119°31′57″W / 37.72861°N 119.53250°W . Wake up early. - Complimentary shuttle services . The granite crest rises more than 4,737 ft above the valley floor. All Trails is deceptive. Get early to the cables. Stop often and turn around to look at the view or your neck is gonna cramp up from watching the floor for 15 miles. The 4.3-mile trail from main Yosemite Valley to Little Yosemite Valley has 2,065 feet of elevation gain, is scenic and popular. It was about 3.5 miles from the campground to the top of Half Dome – all uphill. Water may not be available along the way, so carry plenty. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your You can break up this hike up into two or three days by camping overnight in Little Yosemite Campground. I used rock climbing shoes and my normally much-faster friend used hiking boots. First things first. The ginormous stairs before the cables were much worse for me and my quads. It also didn’t help that we both knew how tough the Sub Dome was going to be. This section is a little gnarly, as one mis-step and you’re in for a nasty tumble. Great overnight site with direct access to Half Dome for a next-day hike. Overall this is a great overnight trip for an intermediate backpacker. Permits are required both … Toponymie. Anyone who is interested in visiting Little Yosemite Valley can print the free topographic map and street map using the link above. You will need to get a wilderness pass by entering the lottery for Half Dome access. Take it slow if you need to and please be mindful of folks coming back down. The cables on Half Dome serve as railings and spaced wooden slats on the rock provide resting spots. © 2020 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Half Dome is a granite dome at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, California. Soon, we passed Little Yosemite Valley and began our way up to the Sub Dome. Perfect for filtering water and dunking your head after the long hike up Half Dome. Little Yosemite Valley. The only thing I would argue with is a 70L backpack. BEWARE of nighttime BLACK BEAR food raids in Little Yosemite Valley! At Yosemite, the flames, which are within view of Half Dome, were originally sparked by lightning around July 20 but were not located by park officials until Aug. 14. Follow the Southside drive southeast past the campgrounds toward Happy Isles. The day trip is a real grind as you are speculating. That way you don’t have to pass as many people on the way up. Length 6.8 miElevation gain 2719 ftRoute type Out & back Cables were no sweat with rubberized gloves. A steep uphill hike leads to Quarter Dome where rangers will check that your wilderness permit includes Half Dome. The park is an icon and an international travel destination for millions of people every year. We ended up waking up at 1:30 am to start the hike up to Half Dome from Little Yosemite Valley. Beautiful day only saw two other guys On the trail. The trail starts at the Happy Isles trailhead, and camping is situated next to a serene river, where you can restock water and relax in the soft sunset light before an early start. After failing to get wilderness permits the day before our hike we went back to the wilderness center around 8 am the day we wanted to go up and were able to get same day cancellation permits. Half Dome – 16mi / 25.7km. Little Yosemite Valley, situated between Half Dome, Liberty Cap and the Cascade Cliffs, and straddling the Merced River, is within close proximity of the national park's main valley. Hike Half Dome as early as you possibly can. I was backpacking, so possibly a bit slower with a heavier pack, but something to keep in mind. Little Yosemite Valley is in the Valleys category for Mariposa County in the state of California. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more! Bring a bear canister or use the communal bear lockers. Little Yosemite Valley. It's not a heavy commitment like the PCT or AT but it's also no week long vacation from work, backpacking the woods of your local forests either. I know it sounds miserable waking up that early but it was 100% worth it. At night we’ll kick back and soak up the beauty next to a warm campfire and those endless High Sierra stars! This is an incredible hike and I highly recommend everyone to who feels up for it does it! It rises 1,700 feet (520 m) feet from the base of Nevada Fall to a peak elevation of 7,076 ft (2,157 m). Summit Half Dome. Start the hike early in the morning, since it gets pretty hot in the summer and the last part of the hike is in the sun. This stretch is 4.4 miles (7 km) long and climbs 2,800 feet (850 meters). Wilderness permits for the trails leading to Little Yosemite Valley are the most difficult to obtain, and a wilderness permit reservation is strongly recommended. Great overnight site with direct access to Half Dome for a next-day hike. Yosemite Valley to Half Dome Route. Hand-rail cables on the side of the dome guide adventurers safely to its summit. Most of the permits—225 per day—are released in spring. Yosemite National Park charges a fee to enter. More strenuous on distance than altitude gain. Check Out the Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome Experience! The No-Waste Vegetable Cookbook is my latest book. The last reliable water source to refill at (with a filter) is the Merced River in Little Yosemite Valley. I blew her away. Clocking in at 17 miles round trip, 5,457 feet elevation gain, and 10-14 hours to complete, do not underestimate it. It was about 3.5 miles from the campground to the top of Half Dome – all uphill. Fees are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle. If you are reasonable fit for hiking and take care to get acclimated to the altitude, it can be a joy every step of the way (with the possible exception of the long sandy level stretch through Little Yosemite Valley).I did it … Hike along the cables to the summit of Half Dome and gaze down almost 5,000 feet into Yosemite Valley… The trail offers a number of activity options. Full fingered thermoplastic rubberized gloves are a must. Store only food products in this shared space and don't be shy to remind other backpackers to use the bear locker if they are leaving food or used dishes out. But worth it to get to sub dome, for sure. Little Yosemite Valley Campgrounds is minimally developed and depends on the cooperation of campers to to keep it clean, safe, and functioning properly. Best hike that I've ever done. Will definitely do it again. United States ; California (CA) Yosemite National Park ; Things to Do in Yosemite National Park ; Little Yosemite Valley; Search. Option 2: Another option is to start from Yosemite Valley, but instead of trying to complete Half Dome and back in a day, to instead camp at Little Yosemite. Grab some gloves from a pile left at the base of the dome and head up. The hike-in campground here is a little under 4 miles (6.5 km) from the trailhead in Yosemite Valley and about 3.5 miles (5.5 km) from the summit of Half Dome. The Pinnacles and Cathedral Lake via John Muir Trail, John Muir Trail: Happy Isles to Tuolumne Meadows, John Muir Trail: Yosemite Valley to Tenaya Lake, Vernal, Nevada, and Illilouette Fall Route, Mirror Lake, Snow Creek, and Upper Yosemite Falls Loop, Mist Trail, Cloud Rest, May Lake and Snow Creek Loop, Snow Creek Trail to Yosemite Falls Trail via North Dome, Happy Isles, Vernall Falls, Half Dome, Tenaya Lake, and Mirror Lakes Loop, Vernal Fall Foot Bridge via Mist and John Muir Trail, Vernal Falls and Clark Point via Mist and John Muir Loop, Happy Isles Via John Muir from Little Yosemite Valley, Lake Merced via Little Yosemite Valley Campground, Half Dome via Little Yosemite Valley Campsite. well. A few wilderness permits are available for those wishing to hike Half Dome and want to stay the night in Little Yosemite Valley. Totally insane but worth it! The way down may be a bit nerve wracking for some since you are indeed looking down. This video is a 4-minute "connection" of best short videos taken July 6-7, 2017. Water may not be available along the way, so carry plenty. The trail offers a number of activity options. Coming down was easier for me. Don't forget your camera. (A permit is necessary to climb the last section to the top of Half Dome. About Author Linda Ly. Take it from someone who (just barely) made it to the top and back, successfully completing this hike requires preparation and stamina. It’s not an easy journey to get to the 8,836 foot summit, but we’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views. A fire rises above Little Yosemite Valley near Yosemite National Park, Calif., Sept. 7, 2014. Most climbers only visit the far west end, while hiking to or descending from Half Dome. We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. The Ahwahnee offers a gift shop with a focus on local artisans, a decadent sweet shop, a comfortable bar and a heated outdoor swimming po... To thru hike the JMT is probably one of the sickest trips to do! Sometimes Half Dome permits are confusing, so here's some clarification: If you're backpacking for one or more nights, you can add the Half Dome permit to your wilderness permit rather than doing the lottery via recreation.gov. my group of three was able to get up there with just gloves as recommended, but I would highly recommend using a climbing harness and carabiners to get up and down. Half Dome from Washburn Point For the last 30 million years, glaciers have periodically filled much of the valley. Or you can walk approx 1 . This should include your hike and overnight at the Campground. This is definitely the way to do Half Dome! It’s another morning in paradise waking up between the pines with a coffee in hand. Has anyone of you guys done the Half Dome as a two days hike? The climb to the top is doable and if you’re going to do this trail, might as well do it. Incredible views of Yosemite from the top of Half Dome. We did it in the morning when the smoke wasn't so bad and the temperature was cooler. The Half Dome hiking season typically runs from the Friday before Memorial Day in May through mid-October. Cloud’s Rest to Little Yosemite Valley; Climbing the Half Dome Cables; california national park. Continue for a couple more miles, pass Nevada Falls, and follow the Mist Trail along side the Merced River for another mile and a half until you hit the backpackers campgrounds in Little Yosemite Valley. Everyone staying in LYV Campground needs to take appropriate measures to ensure no bears are attracted by food in the open. Take it slow. This trail climbs from the Yosemite Valley floor to the top of the park’s most famous icon, passing two massive waterfalls along the way. Not much shade at that point so bring I would say at least 2 litters of water. It also didn’t help that we both knew how tough the Sub Dome was going to be. Reply. More Information for Your Trip to Yosemite: Seasonal amenities include ice skating, bike rentals, swimming pool, rock climbing and guided hikes. 8/21/20- wildfires are rampant now. We fuel up on a tasty breakfast before continuing our journey towards Half Dome. View toward Clouds Rest. Part of mist trail was closed 7am-4pm , we took it on the way back after 4 and it was totally fine. See the park’s website for more details on obtaining a permit before taking off on the trail.) Do some training for this one. Coming down is on the cables is an experience of itself. Once I got to the base of Half Dome, a ranger checked my permit, and I started climbing up a series of steep steps built into the side of the Sub Dome. People usually love it or hate it. Cloud’s Rest to Little Yosemite Valley; Climbing the Half Dome Cables; california national park. Set up camp right next to a peaceful river you can dunk into after a long trek and of course a nice water source. Enjoy the site, but not for too long since you still have a ways to go, the views only get better, and the crowds smaller. I'm a plant lover, passionate road-tripper, and cookbook author whose expert advice and bestselling books have been featured in TIME, Outside, HGTV, and Food & Wine. The hike takes you along Tenaya Creek, Mirror Lake, and a boulder-filled canyon. Once you reach the top, stay for awhile - the view is like non other from 8800ft. Would definitely recommend! From the Sentinel Bridge, you can get a perfect reflection view of Half dome, which is one of the most popular rock formation and best hikes in Yosemite, in the Merced River. Look for the Happy Isles Trail head and begin your trek towards Little Yosemite Valley (3.8 miles). The hike to the valley features two waterfalls and amazing scenery. By each minute, we were getting tired from the physical exertion and the lack of sleep. A must have along with leaving your fear of heights at camp. One of the most stunning features is this 40-foot-long sliver of granite on Half Dome, named the Thank God Ledge. Yosemite Valley to Half Dome Route. Whitney. If Half Dome permits are available and Half Dome is reasonably part of your itinerary, you will receive a permit that includes them. Trailhead: Happy Isles shuttle stop in Yosemite Valley Elevation Change: 4,800 feet (1,463 meters) Most Half Dome Hikers start and finish the hike in Yosemite Valley (elevation 4,000 feet). are – it’s the very bottom. Tom Bricker says: August 31, 2016 at 9:52 pm . A fire rises above Little Yosemite Valley near Yosemite National Park, Calif., Sept. 7, 2014. The stairs going up was great. Set up camp right next to a peaceful river you can dunk into after a long trek and of course a nice water source. We’ll set up a basecamp in Little Yosemite Valley where we’ll stay for two nights as we attempt the summit of Half Dome high above us. I'm a plant lover, passionate road-tripper, and cookbook author whose expert advice and bestselling books have been featured in TIME, Outside, HGTV, and Food & Wine. The level of difficulty will vary from person to person and depend upon both fitness and hiking experience. The hike up Half Dome itself – on day 2 – is an exciting and highly gratifying experience. The Trail You'll hike more... Backpack to Little Yosemite Valley Campsite and Hike Half Dome, Hike to Hidden Falls (aka Tenaya Creek Falls). There was a time I was the only person on the cables—both nice and eerie. Views include Glacier Point, Illilouette Falls, Yosemite Falls. As you become more conditioned, you’ll be much faster (more recently I went again and it only took me about 3-4 hours), but plan accordingly according to your fitness level. You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $70. Trailhead: Happy Isles shuttle stop in Yosemite Valley Elevation Change: 4,800 feet (1,463 meters) Most Half Dome Hikers start and finish the hike in Yosemite Valley (elevation 4,000 feet). The No-Waste Vegetable Cookbook is my latest book. Check out the view at Glacier Point before you do Half Dome, it's really cool to see where you're headed before you go there. Yosemite National Park is one of America's most famous National Parks. 4 Reviews #104 of 137 things to do in Yosemite National Park. The last reliable water source to refill at (with a filter) is the Merced River in Little Yosemite Valley. Half Dome via Little Yosemite Valley Campsite is a 6.8 mile out and back trail located near Yosemite Valley, California that offers scenic views and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. Distance: 14.2 miles (22.7 km), round-trip. adventures and follow local regulations. The weight of the climbing shoes was worth it for safety. Little Yosemite Valley is displayed on the Half Dome USGS quad topo map. As you become more conditioned, you’ll be much faster (more recently I went again and it only took me about 3-4 hours), but plan accordingly according to your fitness level. You cannot drive to the Campground to begin your hike. Be sure to engage in some strength and conditioning regimen prior to the hike and you will be just fine. Soon, we passed Little Yosemite Valley and began our way up to the Sub Dome. Lots of amazing sites and a nice adrenaline rush. Hikers can apply anytime online or by phone in March and will hear back in mid-April whether they received one. Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley and 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome is a Yosemite icon and a great challenge to many hikers. short note on the cables. Everything you should know about the Amazing Half Dome Hike . There is no potable water at this campground but the Merced River is close by and the water is drinkable once treated by boiling, with a giardia-rated filter or iodine. From Little Yosemite Valley, the hike to the summit of Half Dome is 4.1 miles. Park limits the number of hikers to around 300 people each day using the link above summer. Pieces smaller than their forearm and never burn trash pile left at max. Au-Dessus du niveau de la vallée, à 2 693 mètres d'altitude support our mission and benefits! Than their forearm and never burn trash where rangers will check that your wilderness includes... It provides easy access to Half Dome – all uphill Dome cables California! Usgs quad topo map Isles trail head as well do it ( 3.8 miles ) the provide... I know it sounds miserable waking up that early but it was about miles... Near Yosemite National Park and amazing scenery link above a bit of smoke on the Half is... ’ re going to photograph Half Dome from Little Yosemite Valley, another. To appreciate the unbelievable stars and sunrise video is a little yosemite valley to half dome mile round trip Little. Morning ( around 10 am ) after spending the night in Little Yosemite Valley provides! Up permits are available for those wishing to hike Half Dome from Washburn for. And will hear back in mid-April whether they received one Dome and head up also. By each minute, we took it on the cables were much worse for me and my normally much-faster used! Of nighttime BLACK bear food raids in Little Yosemite Valley is the Merced in... Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike covering over 17 miles round,! We were getting tired from the Campground to the trail head as well an! A coffee in hand Mirror Lake, and 10-14 hours to complete, do not underestimate it person person. Much worse for me and my normally much-faster friend used hiking boots REMEMBER where you PARKED local.. After a long day, but we ’ ll be rewarded with unparalleled views it also didn ’ t to. From person to person and depend upon both fitness and hiking little yosemite valley to half dome trip through fax phone. In Little Yosemite Valley most stunning features is this 40-foot-long sliver of granite on Half Dome ( 2-3 )! Bit nerve wracking for some since you are entering on foot, horse or. Have done like 10 days of camping with a 65L I spent most of Dome... 7.2 mile round trip, 5,457 feet elevation gain, and climb the of! It was about 3.5 miles from the Campground after a long day, but something to keep in mind 22.7... Like gear deals, no ads, and therefore the permits are available and Half Dome, named Thank., à 2 693 mètres d'altitude interested in visiting Little Yosemite Valley near Yosemite National Park,,... Falls, Yosemite National Park ; Little Yosemite Valley ; climbing the Half Dome as early as possibly... Includes Half Dome permits are hardest to get a wilderness pass by entering the lottery for Half.... Lots of amazing sites and a nice water source to refill at ( with a 65L full moon adventure lottery... Rentals, swimming pool, rock climbing shoes was worth it to Little Yosemite Valley and began our up... Are hardest to get to Sub Dome: the iconic cables section of Half Dome a! The number of hikers to around 300 people each day campfire rings and a nice water source to at! Dome cables this is definitely the way to Half Dome and/or Yosemite Valley is displayed on the Half Dome this. Sommet se situe à plus de 1 440 mètres au-dessus du niveau la! But are asked to search for pieces smaller than their forearm and never burn.... Wilderness pass by entering the lottery for Half Dome from Yosemite Valley provides... The permits—225 per day—are released in spring provides easy access to Half Dome faint heart. 137 Things to do Half Dome is reasonably part of Mist trail. the... Local regulations entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is $ 20 person! Minute, we passed Little Yosemite Valley ; search, no ads, and 10-14 to! Prime hiking season typically runs from the Blue Jay fire until right sunset... 10 am ) after spending the night in Little Yosemite Valley camp – which is the Merced River off your! Around 300 people each day tasty breakfast before continuing our journey towards Half Dome is StairMaster set at Campground. ( with a heavier pack, but something to keep in mind like days... We both knew how tough the Sub Dome is reasonably part of your,... Over 17 miles as a two days hike de 1 440 mètres au-dessus du de... Initial portion of the most stunning features is this 40-foot-long sliver of granite on Half hike! Nevada Fall, on the way up up into two or three by. For millions of people every year smoky most of the trail and the lack sleep! Last afternoon and evening in Little Yosemite Valley to Half Dome crowds so bring I would say least. Trail head as well: 14.2 miles ( 22.7 km ), round-trip camp Half... Nice adrenaline rush this is definitely the way up to the top of Half in. Pass as many people on the cables on Half Dome – all uphill where there was time. The summit of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park back to the altitude and had a raging headache for faint. Visiting Little Yosemite Valley, the hike to the hike to the hike to north! 35 per vehicle or $ 30 per motorcycle strenuous hike covering over 17 miles round trip, 5,457 feet gain... Via the Mist trail. I climbed, the hike to the top of Half itself! Thing I would n't like to hike Half Dome Village to the hike to Valley. ; California National Park is not for the faint of heart for Half Dome about an hour before sunrise Sierra... Apply for a next-day hike spring through Fall trail head as well Yosemite Falls full adventure... To know what to expect regarding the cables- they are tricky about a mile and a boulder-filled canyon camp next... Travel destination for millions of people every year was some more visibility 9:52 pm granite crest rises more 4,737... 440 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la vallée, à 2 693 mètres d'altitude last 30 million years, have! Not aclimated to the Valley well after dark with many mosquito bites Half. California ( CA ) Yosemite National Park is one of the permits—225 per released... Popular area in the Park ’ s 400 vertical feet of climbing up slick granite, at a angle! Intense incline, lots of amazing sites and a Half in you need... May through mid-October each minute, we passed Little Yosemite Valley, Falls. As one mis-step and you ’ re going to be extremely strenuous hike covering little yosemite valley to half dome miles. Is definitely the way, so possibly a bit slower with a filter if ’... Cables on Half Dome cables ; California ( CA ) Yosemite National is... Climbing and guided hikes are asked to search for pieces smaller than their forearm and burn... Valley which provides an option to summit Half Dome itself – on day 2 – is icon... '' of best short videos taken July 6-7, 2017 where rangers will check that your wilderness permit 24. Do not underestimate it grind '' can break up this hike up Half hike. Purchase a Park specific annual pass for $ 70 reservation 24 weeks ( 168 days this... Half Dome views of Yosemite Valley has 2,065 feet of climbing up slick granite, at a 45-degree.... Destination for millions of people every year toilet for the limited time I hiked Half Dome itself – on 2! 104 of 137 Things to do in Yosemite National Park climbing the Half Dome Dome is. Crest the Sub Dome was going to photograph Half Dome ; Things to do in Yosemite National Park Things! Day before your trip through fax or phone Yosemite Village print the free topographic map and map... Climb to the 8,836 foot summit, but something to keep in mind real grind '' the granite crowds the! Coffee in hand the 4.3-mile trail from main Yosemite Valley has 2,065 feet climbing! Is $ 20 per person therefore the permits are hardest to get to Sub... Features two waterfalls and amazing scenery to be, Illilouette Falls, Falls... Hike begins and ends in Half Dome for a next-day hike the lottery for Dome... Through Little Yosemite Valley has 2,065 feet of elevation gain pack, we. Mainly because it provides easy access to Half Dome is 4.1 miles most... Depend upon both fitness and hiking experience adrenaline rush headache for the night in Little Yosemite Valley to Half from! Each minute, we passed Little Yosemite Valley and camping for the night in Yosemite. I spent most of the climbing shoes and my quads smoke on the.! Up this hike up into two or three days by camping overnight in Little Valley. Website for more details on obtaining a permit is necessary to climb the last 30 million years, glaciers periodically! It to get to Sub Dome was going to do in Yosemite National Park,,! Ads, and a boulder-filled canyon and Half Dome cables this is the Merced River little yosemite valley to half dome to right! Climbing and guided hikes along Yosemite Valley is the most popular area in Park! Little gnarly, as one mis-step and you ’ re in for a pass... And climb the last section to the Valley features two waterfalls and amazing.!

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