1. Half Dome is a granite dome located in Yosemite National Park, California. It stands at 8,839 feet (2,694 meters) high and is one of the park’s most iconic landmarks. The dome is known for its unique geological formation and its sheer vertical face, which makes it a popular destination for hikers and rock climbers.
The ascent to the top of Half Dome involves a challenging 14-16 mile round trip hike that takes approximately 10-14 hours to complete. The trail includes steep switchbacks, a section known as the \"cable route,\" and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
2. Yosemite National Park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. However, some facilities and services may have limited hours or be closed during certain times of the year. For information about park hours and services, you can call the park’s visitor center at (209) 372-0200.
3. To hike to the top of Half Dome, you must obtain a permit in advance. A limited number of permits are available each day during the hiking season, which typically runs from late May to early October. The permits are awarded through a lottery system, which opens in March and closes in April. For more information about permits and the lottery process, visit the Yosemite National Park website.
Transportation to Yosemite National Park varies depending on your location and mode of travel. The park is located approximately 4 hours by car from San Francisco and can also be reached by bus or train. Once inside the park, there are free shuttles that operate during the summer months to transport visitors to various locations. Private vehicles are also allowed within the park, but parking can be limited during peak season.
