Half dome yosemite

Half Dome is an iconic granite monolith in Yosemite National Park, California, rising 2,695 meters with a 600-meter vertical face.

About this subject

Half Dome is a granite formation located in Yosemite National Park, California, within the Sierra Nevada range. Standing at 2,695 meters, it is one of the most iconic peaks in the United States. Its 600-meter vertical face, the Northwest Face, is a classic climbing objective first ascended in 1957 by Royal Robbins, Mike Sherrick, and Jerry Gallwas. The name "Half Dome" derives from its distinctive half-dome shape, a result of differential erosion and jointing in the granite. The most popular route for hikers is the 23-kilometer round trip trail, which includes the famous cable section installed in 1919 to aid the final ascent. Geologically, the granite of Half Dome formed about 87 million years ago during the Cretaceous period, as magma cooled slowly underground. Subsequent glaciation sculpted its present form, exposing the rock. The summit provides a spectacular panorama of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and nearby waterfalls. The site has been protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984 and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact height of Half Dome?

Half Dome stands at 2,695 meters above sea level, with a vertical face of about 600 meters.

Do I need a permit to hike Half Dome?

Yes, the main trail requires a permit obtained through a lottery system in spring due to high demand and limited capacity.

Who made the first ascent of Half Dome's vertical face?

The first ascent of the northwest face was in 1957 by Royal Robbins, Mike Sherrick, and Jerry Gallwas using modern climbing techniques.