Half Dome

Half Dome

Hello ProRangers and park people! For my wilderness patrol this weekend, I spent some time up at Half Dome. My 15 mile journey began on the Mist Trail (featured in last week's blog) and brought me up to LYV before I began the last and most challenging leg of the journey climbing Half Dome. When the park is open, summiting Half Dome is one of the most popular activities undertaken by visitors. Each day, 300 permits are issued for visitors to make their way to the top of this iconic landmark. However, with the park currently closed to visitors, I didn't encounter anyone along the way. I did however remove trash along the trail and surveyed snow packs to determine when the trail can reopen. After making my way up the Sub Dome, I reached the base of Half Dome's cables. Normally, Half Dome is accessible through the use of wire cables and wooden slats that help visitors climb the towering peak. During the winter, the wires and wooden slats are removed leaving the cables lying on the surface. While it is still possible to climb Half Dome without the assistance of the wire railing and wooden slats, the approach is much different. To climb Half dome, I used a Prussik hitch and personal anchoring system that would arrest a potential fall. After securing my harness, helmet, climbing gloves and climbing shoes, I attached myself to the cables and started the long journey upward. 

The start of the cables. A sign reminds climbers of the danger climbing during inclement weather can cause. 

Climbing the cables using a prussik hitch and personal anchor system.

Taking a break to admire the incredible view!

After completing the first pitch of the cables, there is a split in the cables that requires climbers to switch their gear. This was the most challenging part, as I had to remove part of my gear from one cable and place it on another. It is important to remember to always have multiple mechanisms in place to protect yourself while climbing. In this case, I removed one of my anchors and placed it on the new cable while staying securely attached to another. When it comes to climbing, redundancy is crucial!

After over 40 minutes of climbing, I reached the top! After a quick lunch (and many pictures) it was time to make my way back down. Luckily, going down was much easier as gravity did most of the work. Using the prussik hitch, I was able to gradually lower myself down to the base of Half Dome. 

View of Yosemite Valley atop Half Dome

The "Diving Board"

After climbing Half Dome the only thing left to do was complete another 7.5 miles of hiking to return to Yosemite Valley. While most visitors do not complete Half Dome in one day, it is possible. However, it is important to know your limits and reserve energy for the long hike back. Completing this trip provided me with insight as to what most visitors will encounter. Now, I can more accurately define the hazards and precautions necessary for a fun yet safe experience. 

Elevation gain during the hike. From Yosemite Valley to Half Dome the elevation gain is nearly 5300 ft!

Map depicting the route I took to reach Half Dome. 

This week, I will be working with the search and rescue office in addition to some more wilderness patrols. I look forward to sharing my experiences with you again next week!

Until next time,

ProRanger Caruso