Yosemite sets hiking cables to summit of Half Dome

It's a springtime announcement eagerly anticipated by hikers: "The cables to the summit of Half Dome have been installed."

Today the announcement by Yosemite National Park was made, enabling completion of a grueling 17-mile round-trip hike during which hikers gain 4,800 feet of elevation and are treated with stunning views of Vernal and Nevada falls.

After passing the falls, weary travelers reach the cables, which means the ultimate reward is close at hand. A series of metal cables are placed on Half Dome's steep granite shoulder to assist hikers to the summit. And as you can see, the route is sometimes crowded.

Yosemite advises those planning this hike to take appropriate precautions and prepare for rapidly changing weather. Rain, thunder and lightning are common in the Sierra Nevada, especially in summer and fall, and hikers should not attempt to summit the dome when lightning appears possible.

Here's hoping for an accident-free season on Half Dome and elsewhere in the majestic park.

-- Pete Thomas

Photo by Anacleto Rapping / Los Angeles Times

Comments

[Kevin]

That photo bums me out. Where's the accomplishment when you've got every wannabe climber essentially climbing a staircase to the summit?

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[Pat]

Why so negative, Kevin? For sure, we aren't going to see most of the folks dangling in a sling half way up El Capitan, but can't we just celebrate that fact that they have turned off their T.V.s and emerged from their living rooms and are desirous enjoying the glory of Yosemite? I think it's great the park has made this climb accessible to all of us "wannabes."

[Larry]

Kevin
Sounds like you've never climbed this. It's hardley a stair case. People die climbing this stair case as you describe it. It's really hard to believe that it's allowed still. It's steep, scary, slippery, you're basically having to pull yourself up a steep slope using your arm strength after hiking 8 miles to get there. The only real bummer is having to wait in line on the weekends to fininsh this part. If you want to risk your life dont use the cables! Now there is your accomplishment!

[Lia]

Uhm...my husband and I just climbed this thing 3 days ago and I can tell you, it's hardly a staircase!! And no...I am not a wannabe "climber" although I do some indoor rock climbing and bouldering. I am a hiker and this I consider a very proud accomplishment. Also, most "climbers" I meet are very happy and down to earth people. They are always happy that everyone else is out and enjoying nature. Not bummed out because wannabe climbers are out there pretending to be climbers as they risk their lilves going up a 400+ ft a steep climb. What are you 12? Grow up!

[Tony]

The staircase you refer to must be the 800 feet of carved rocks leading to the 400 foot worth of cables to get you to the top. I assure you, unless you have been there, and it is apparent you haven't, the climb is tough. Aside from the granite face, oily cables, and less than secure poles being held into the rock by gravity; what makes this feat dangerous is humans. Climbing in and out of the 3' wide cable system, the speed of those either experienced climbers or those who wear the "S" on their chest. I would agree with Lia, the accomplishment is getting out into nature, enjoying the views, the 8.2 mile hike, being mindful of the environment, and yes did happen upon a rattlesnake (near the parking lot, of all places). Numerous mule deer. And the ever dangerous squirrels.. Kevin, thank you for your opinion. See you at the top