Half Dome via Cables

The route begins at Happy Isles Trailhead, reached via Yosemite Valley shuttle stop 16. From Happy Isles, follow the John Muir Trail south along the Merced River into the granite canyon above the valley floor. At the junction 0.4 miles from the trailhead, bear left to stay on the John Muir Trail — the right fork is the Mist Trail, which reconnects above Nevada Fall but adds steeper, wetter terrain. The JMT climbs past the top of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall before reaching the broad flats of Little Yosemite Valley. At the signed Half Dome Trail junction, turn left and begin a sustained climb on switchbacks through forest and open granite slabs to the base of the Sub Dome. A long series of stone steps gains several hundred vertical feet before the gradient eases at the base of the cables. The final ascent follows two parallel steel cables bolted to the granite face, with wooden slat footrests for grip; the exposure is significant and the surface becomes hazardous when wet. The summit at 8,836' offers expansive views across Yosemite Valley and the high Sierra. Retrace your steps to return.