For adventurers and climbers, Half Dome is a revered challenge. The popular Cables Route requires physical endurance, mental fortitude, and a healthy respect for the mountain. It also requires a permit.

An Iconic Climb

Half Dome, the iconic granite monolith in Yosemite National Park, stands as a symbol of nature’s grandeur and human ambition. Rising nearly 5,000 feet above the Yosemite Valley floor, its sheer face inspires awe in all who behold it.

The Cable Route up Half Dome is one of the park’s most iconic challenges. Approximately 17 miles round trip—depending on the route—it typically takes 9 to 12 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. The hike involves a total ascent of 5,200 feet and reaches an elevation of 8,846 feet at the summit.

The final ascent of The Cables Route involves climbing the Half Dome cables, which consist of two steel cables bolted into the granite to help hikers up the steep slope to the summit. The cables cover approximately 400 vertical feet on a steep, smooth granite surface. This section requires both upper body strength and good grip. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike, offering stunning views of Yosemite Valley and the surrounding High Sierra.

The Cables

The Half Dome cables have a rich history. In the late 1800s, George Anderson, a determined adventurer, sought to conquer the granite dome. After several failed attempts, he drilled holes and installed iron eyebolts, creating a makeshift route. Inspired by his success, Sally Dutcher became the first woman to summit Half Dome in 1875.

In 1919, Sierra Club installed steel cables, replacing the earlier rope system. The cables were updated in 1934 and again in 1984. The Cable Route was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

These cables have since become an integral part of the Half Dome experience, guiding thousands of hikers each year to the breathtaking summit. While the cables have made the ascent more accessible, they also demand respect and caution. The journey remains physically and mentally challenging, requiring proper preparation and adherence to safety guidelines.

Sierra Club installed cables on Half Dome, following the route George Anderson established in 1919. (NPS Photo)

Permits Required

The Half Dome cables are typically up from the Friday before Memorial Day through the Tuesday after Columbus Day, depending on weather conditions. During this time, permits are mandatory to ascend the subdome steps or the Half Dome cables. Here’s what else you need to know:

  1. Half Dome Permits for Day Hikers: These are required for all hikers ascending the subdome and Half Dome cables when the cables are up. Permits (200 per day) are distributed through a lottery system at Recreation.gov:
    • Preseason Lottery: The primary opportunity to secure a permit. The application period runs from March 1 to March 31, with results announced in mid-April. Your chances are better if you choose a weekday.
    • Daily Lottery: A smaller number of permits are available via a daily lottery. Applications can be submitted two days before your intended hike. The daily lotteries run from May 21 through October 13.
  2. Half Dome Permits for Backpackers: Backpackers—including those who plan to spend the night in Little Yosemite Valley—should apply for Half Dome permits with their wilderness permit. Sixty percent of wilderness permits become available by lottery 24 weeks in advance at Recreation.gov and are separate from the lottery system for the Half Dome cables. The remaining 40% become available 7 days in advance.

Additional Tips

  • Plan Your Route: No matter which route you take, the hike to Half Dome is no walk in the park. It’s a tough 14-16 miles round trip, much of it above 7,000 feet, with nearly 5,500 feet of elevation gain. Make sure you’re in good shape, ready for a challenge, and carrying everything you need—plenty of water, food, and the right gear.
  • Check the Weather: Most accidents occur when the rock is wet, so always check the forecast and steer clear if there’s any chance of rain, thunderstorms, or high winds.
  • Wear the Right Shoes: Don’t skimp on footwear. Sturdy hiking shoes with excellent grip are your best friend on this trek.
  • Bring Gloves: Many hikers swear by gloves for gripping the cables—they’ll save your hands some serious wear and tear.
  • Stay Hydrated and Fueled: This hike will test your endurance, so bring more water and snacks than you think you’ll need. Keeping your energy up is key.
  • Be Patient: The cables can get crowded, especially during peak times. Slow down and enjoy the view.
  • Consider a Safety Harness: Some climbers use a harness and carabiners to clip into the cables for extra security.
  • Know Your Limits: The Cable Route up Half Dome is rated class 3 and is definitely not for everyone.

Even with the permit system in place, the Half Dome cables can still get crowded, especially during peak times. This can slow things down and make the climb a bit riskier. While accidents on the cables are rare, they can be serious. According to NPS records, there have been 25 confirmed deaths on the cable section since the cables were installed in 1919. That said, with the right preparation, an understanding of the risks, and a sense of adventure, you can safely take on the challenge and soak in the incredible views from the top of Half Dome.

Note: Reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite February 8–9, February 15–17, and February 22–23, 2025 due to the Horsetail Fall event. You can get them at Recreation.gov.

Top photo of Half Dome by Myset/Freepik