The closer we got to our trip, the more it looked like Mother Nature was against us.

1. Weather forecast, Saturday high of 99F
2. The Big Meadow Fire closed our camp (Crane Flat Campgrounds)

We were lucky and change our camp site to Wanwona Camp Ground. Being further south and 45 minutes away from the trail head forced us to wake up around 3:30 AM to ensue an early enough start to limit the size of the crowds we would face on the cable climb.

[more Yosemite Half Dome photos]

On the way up we opted for the Mist Trail route since it was technically shorter, but that meant a faster elevation gain. Which in hindsight may have taken a little more energy to complete. It was very pretty passing Vernal and Nevada Falls, probably less crowded which was good. The hike was definitely more difficult than I was expecting. It didn’t take long to make the decision to maintain a steady pace instead of  killing ourselves racing up the Mountain. Thus, by the time we reached Half Dome itself, the line started to form and backup considerably.

Now if you are wondering why Justyna has credit for a few of the photos of Half Dome, that’s due to the fact that I decided the last bit of climbing up the cables was not for me. I turned back about half way up the switchbacks which was plenty high enough for me to get the vast views of Yosemite Valley.

If you are in Yosemite and would like to challenge yourself then the Half Dome hike is a good one. I’m in pretty good shape and this hike was long and rather difficult. The hike takes you up ~5000 ft of elevation gain over 14-16 miles. If you are hoofing it you can probably do this in about 10 hours, so be prepared with plenty of water and food. Because getting to the top of Half Dome is only half the battle.

There are quite a few technical spots where if you are not careful you could seriously injure yourself, if not tumble to your death. Take your time and enjoy your surroundings. But please don’t follow in the footsteps of these two morons who are descending Half Dome outside of the cables on the left. They are not only endangering themselves, but everyone else around them. Very inconsiderate.

The whole weekend in Yosemite was awesome. Thanks to Peter and Mercedes for inviting us. I not sure why it took me 10 years to go.

I’ll be back soon!

Now playing: Blue Six – Music & Wine – Beautiful Tomorrow

[More detail on the Half Dome hike by Kenton Lee]