(BDCi) – Hikers wishing to summit Yosemite National Park’s Half Dome will have their chance beginning next week, park officials said in a statement.
The cables allowing access for hikers to the peak of Half Dome will be in place and open for the season beginning Wednesday (june 29). Because of heavy winter snow and cooler spring temperatures delayed the opening of several of Yosemite’s roads, campgrounds and attractions this year.
Park officials warn that the 17-mile trail to Half Dome from Yosemite Valley is an extremely strenuous hike. 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 shoulder.
Visitors are required to have a permit to ascend the Half Dome cables seven days per week. Permits can be reserved three months in advance. For those not interested in scaling the side of a steep granite dome, the trail leading to the base of Half Dome does not require a permit.
This hike is for physically fit individuals who have participated on similar strenuous hikes. The trip is 16 miles. However, this hike is the last 400 feet climbing to the summit. Two cables go up the side of Half Dome allowing you to reach the summit without rock climbing equipment.
To plan your Half Dome hike, and for weather information, go to www.nps.gov.
By: Adrianna Lobo Source: LA Times
June 19, 2011