Western Wanderlust Chronicles

On Day 3 of our backpacking trip, the focus was on summiting Half Dome, one of Yosemite’s most iconic peaks. Jackie, Chantelle, and I woke up early to get ahead of the crowds coming from Yosemite Valley. Our goal was to hike 3 miles to the top of Half Dome at 8,836 ft, carrying only lightweight daypacks.

The Initial Ascent

We started our hike through the woods, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the early morning. The trail meandered through the forest, gradually becoming more challenging as the trees gave way to exposed granite. This transition marked the beginning of the Sub Dome switchbacks. Here, a ranger checked our permits, and with the green light to proceed, our excitement soared. We trudged ahead, up the granite steps. The path from the base of the subdome to the top is a continuous uphill battle with numerous switchbacks and narrow paths.

Approaching the Cables

After navigating the steep and rocky trail, we arrived at the final 400 feet of the infamous Half Dome cables. We took a break, gathering our energy and mentally preparing for the final ascent. Feeling invigorated by the sight of the cables and the stunning views, we reclaimed ourselves and continued up the last remaining segment of the Half Dome hike. The early start paid off as we reached the cables before they got crowded, allowing us to take our time and savor the moment.

The Climb

The cables themselves were an exhilarating challenge. Ascending them involved pulling ourselves up the steep granite face, aided by metal cables bolted into the rock. It was a test of both physical strength and mental fortitude. As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly breathtaking, with Yosemite’s vast wilderness spreading out below us. Despite the effort required, each step brought us closer to the summit and a sense of profound achievement.

The Summit

Reaching the top of Half Dome, we experienced a flood of emotions: fatigue mixed with the adrenaline rush of reaching the summit, awe at the panoramic views, and a deep sense of accomplishment. The summit of Half Dome offers one of the most spectacular views in Yosemite, with an outstanding 360-degree panorama. We could see Yosemite Valley, the high country, and many of Yosemite’s famous features, including the Cathedral Range and the distant peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

Enjoying the Views

We spent a considerable amount of time at the summit, taking in the views and enjoying a well-deserved lunch. It was a moment of pure joy and serenity, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada. The sense of isolation and connection to nature was profound. We took countless photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the landscape, but knowing that no picture could truly do it justice.

The Descent

After soaking in the views and the experience, we began our descent back to camp. The journey down the cables was just as challenging as the ascent, requiring careful navigation and steady nerves. Once we reached the base, we continued our hike, packing up our gear at camp before setting out for Yosemite Valley. The hike out was another 5.5 miles via the Mist Trail, a route known for its stunning scenery and steep descent, losing about 3,800 feet of elevation.

The Mist Trail

The Mist Trail lived up to its name, offering close encounters with Vernal and Nevada Falls, two of Yosemite’s most spectacular waterfalls. The trail winds along the falls, with the mist providing a refreshing coolness as we hiked. The combination of the waterfalls, the surrounding forest, and the rugged terrain created a mesmerizing environment. As we continued down the trail, the fading light of the day cast a magical glow over the landscape.

A Nighttime Finish

As dusk turned to night, we donned our headlamps for the final stretch. The moon cast a gentle glow, adding to the mystical atmosphere. The sound of the waterfalls accompanied us, a constant reminder of the natural beauty surrounding us. The last two miles were a test of endurance, but also a time of reflection and quiet celebration of our achievements. We finally reached Yosemite Valley, tired but elated, and spent the night there.

Conclusion

The next morning, a kind staff member offered us a ride back to our car in Tuolumne Meadows. It was a gracious end to an incredible journey. Despite the rough start, our trip turned into an amazing adventure, filled with challenges, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences. We had navigated the unpredictable weather of the Sierra Nevada, hiked through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain, and summited one of the most iconic peaks in the world. Three amazing, badass women from Colorado had conquered Yosemite’s challenges, creating memories that would last a lifetime.