#17 MILE DRIVE DIRECTIONS HOW TO#
#17 MILE DRIVE DIRECTIONS UPDATE#

Restroomsįlush toilets are available at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (below Vernal Fall). Drinking untreated river water may cause significant illness. Merced River water is available up to Little Yosemite Valley, however you should treat this water by boiling, using iodine, or using a giardia-rated water filter.

The only treated water on the trail is available (summer only) at a drinking fountain at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (less than a mile from the trailhead). Weather conditions and personal preference affect the amount of water you need, but suggested minimum amounts per person are:ġ gallon (4 liters) if hiking to the top of Half DomeĢ quarts (2 liters) if hiking only to the top of Nevada Fallġ quart (1 liter) if hiking only to the top of Vernal Fall One of the easiest ways to ensure a safe, enjoyable hike is to be sure to have plenty of water. Bearproof trash cans are available at trailheads. When possible, you can help park rangers by picking up trash that you encounter on the trail. While hiking in Yosemite, be sure to pack out all trash. Hundreds of pounds of rotting gloves otherwise accumulate. However, if you bring your gloves up, pack them out. Many people find gloves that have a good grip helpful on the cables. Some of the most common injuries Half Dome hikers suffer are blisters and ankle injuries good footwear is the best way to prevent these problems.

#17 MILE DRIVE DIRECTIONS UPDATE#

The cables are down for the winter (typically, from the day after Columbus Day until Memorial Day weekend) (check conditions update for status and any available updates)īring well broken-in boots with good ankle support and good traction.The ground is wet (the cables and rock become very slick when wet most accidents on the cables occur during wet conditions).Allow faster hikers to pass you (when possible).Take your time and be patient with slower hikers.These dates are subject to change based on conditions. The Half Dome cables usually go back up the Friday before the last Monday in May (Memorial Day) and come down the day after the second Monday in October.

However, injuries are not uncommon for those acting irresponsibly. Since 1919, relatively few people have fallen and died on the cables. The two metal cables allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. The most famous-or infamous-part of the hike is the ascent up the cables.

#17 MILE DRIVE DIRECTIONS HOW TO#

Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them. Regardless, each person should carry a flashlight or headlamp with good batteries (hikers commonly struggle down the trail after dark because they don't have a flashlight). Check for sunrise and sunset times before you hike. For instance, if you haven't reached the top of Half Dome by 3:30 pm, you will turn around. If you plan on hiking during the day, it's smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time.

Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back some take longer. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and-from the shoulder and summit-panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra. Most would say the reward is worth the effort. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome. The 14- to 16-mile round-trip hike to Half Dome is not for you if you're out of shape or unprepared.

17 mile drive directions