schnookies

We're thinking about going for Memorial weekend. Both being good hikers in good shape we're interested in trying hiking Half Dome. Has anyone done it and can tell us about it? Was it hard and how long did it take?

Suzie

Yes it's hard and climbing the dome is dangerous as well. Wear proper shoes. Leave as early as possible so that you are at the front of the line to climb up. It is immensly popular.

Please read the description on the Yosaemite site and heed the warnings.
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/halfdome.htm

enzian

Yes I've done it.

The hike is around 17 miles with 4800 feet of elevation gain (including the last 400 feet on the cables). Last time (2006), we did it in 10 hours, including the 2 hours spent on top.

As Suzie pointed out, it is dangerous, so do read the webpage and heed the warnings, especially about wet rock and storms. Carry plenty of water and take flashlights in case it takes you longer than you plan. (the first time I did it, long ago, we neglected that rule and ended up hiking down in total darkness, no moon and no flashlights).

The cables are not up yet, but they try to get them up by the third weekend in May. Since Memorial Day is early this year, and spring a bit late, they may or may not meet that goal.

If you do not already have lodging in Yosemite Valley it's going to be tough. It is hard to get an early start on the hike if you are driving in from outside the Valley.

charnees

Memorial Day is often cold and rainy -- we have even had snow!! -- in the High Sierras. So don't count on being able to go. And DON"T go if the weather is bad!!

Dayenu

Somebody I know (non-Fodorite) did it, and she said, while it was difficult both up and down, she is so proud of herself!

Supercilious

I don't think Memorial Day is "often cold and rainy" but I believe it was last year. No telling what this year will be like. We are having some strange weather. Other than a week last month, our longest stretch of good weather was in January.

If you do the hike, make sure you buy the t-shirt at the general store.

bratsandbeer

Memorial weekend is a good time to stay away from Yosemite Park unless you have reservations. Two years ago we went for the day on Memorial Day and left after an hour or so - just packed with people.

My niece, her husband, and 2 children under 10 hiked Half Dome. They did it in 2 days - camping overnight on the way up. Not sure if you have to make a reservation to climb Half Dome or not - may want to check it out.

Suzie

There is no reservation system for hiking Half Dome.

schnookies

I didn't know it was that challenging Not sure if we're ready for this kind of hike. I'm glad I came here to find out

bratsandbeer

You may want to hike to the waterfalls. Those hikes are supposed to be a lot of fun.

Suzie

Hiking to Vernal Falls on Memorial Day weekend will be like hiking in a herd. Seriously, expect alot of company. Even people in pitiful shape attempt this hike. There is a nice wide bridge and viewing area that everyone makes it to and then the brave and in-shape climb the slippery stairs to the top. On the way you travel along the Merced River which should be just raging. In the first part of the hike in front of you and to the right (in the distance) you will see Illiotte Falls and then if you turn around you can see Yosemite Falls in the distance behind you. You can keep going after you reach the top of the falls and go on to Nevada Falls about 1.5 miles beyond Vernal Falls.