About This Route
The Half Dome backpacking route from Yosemite Valley via the Mist Trail to Little Yosemite Valley offers a classic 10-14 mile out-and-back adventure with 4,800 feet of elevation gain. Start at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley, ascend the Mist Trail past Vernal and Nevada Falls, reach Little Yosemite Valley for overnight camping, then tackle the final 5-mile, 4,000-foot subdome and cable section to Half Dome's summit. Secure a wilderness permit 5 months in advance through recreation.gov, as quotas fill quickly. This strenuous route draws crowds but demands respect for its granite slabs, steep cables, and exposure. Follow Leave No Trace principles by camping in designated sites and storing food in bear canisters, required by NPS regulations.
Safety Considerations
Thunderstorms pose a severe risk on exposed Half Dome cables; start early to summit by noon, per NPS guidelines. Early season snow lingers on the subdome, creating deadly slips; check Yosemite's current conditions report and carry an ice axe if needed before July. High water from snowmelt makes Mist Trail slippery; unbuckle your pack's waist belt before crossing streams, face upstream, and use a trekking pole for balance, as advised by REI experts. Bear activity is high; use approved canisters like BearVault BV500. Dehydration hits fast at elevation; drink 4-6 liters daily. Hypothermia risk rises near Nevada Falls; pack rain gear and layers even in summer.
Essential Gear
Pack a bear canister, water filter like Sawyer Squeeze, map and compass (Gaia GPS app backup), headlamp with extra batteries, first aid kit with blister treatment, multi-tool, emergency bivvy, and high-energy snacks. REI Co-op's Kingdom Insulated Tent suits variable weather. Gloves for cables, sturdy boots like Salomon Quest 4 GTX, and trekking poles are must-haves.
Emergency Tips
In lightning, descend immediately from summit areas; camp in forested Little Yosemite Valley. For falls or injuries on cables, yell for help and signal with a whistle. Activate Garmin inReach for SOS if cell service fails. Nearest ranger station is Yosemite Valley; dial 911 or 209-372-0284.