I think every other trailhead in the park gets less demand than Happy Isles. But Glacier Point is still very accessible and will have relatively high demand.

This is a great idea. I’m sure Glacier Pt is a less impacted start point for overnights compared to Happy Isles

You’re welcome, Michael. I understand that the full story is only accessible through a paid subscription of The Big Outside, I’ll definitely consider it for future reference.

Thanks, Ruth. All of the tips in this story are the suggestions I’d offer anyone, whether a first-timer or someone who’s hiked it multiple times. My tips on training and the actual hike are in the story. (To read the entire story, including nine sub-heads covering different aspects of the hike (the first one being the permit), you do need a paid subscription to The Big Outside, which gives you full access to all stories at my blog.)

Good luck with your Half Dome hike!

Michael, I have a question – what kind of preparation would you recommend for first-time hikers of Half Dome? Are there any physical or gear requirements to keep in mind? I am planning for a hike along with my wife on upcoming valentine.

Thanks for sharing those suggestions, Ray. Starting at Glacier Point is a great way to hike Half Dome, finishing by either returning to Glacier Point or at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley (requiring a shuttle to Glacier Point to start the hike).

Hi Al,

I wouldn’t suggest an age limit so much as point out that dayhiking Half Dome entails 16 miles and nearly 5,000 vertical feet round-trip. That’s a whole lot of hiking up and down, too much for most kids in grade school or younger. Still, some kids can handle that big a day. I would give kids a chance to build up to that level of endurance with shorter and increasingly longer hikes before committing to a day as serious as Half Dome.

Check out my story “How to Know How Hard a Hike Will Be,” and all skills stories at The Big Outside.

Thanks for those suggestions, Glen, and you’re right about wearing sticky-soled shoes (I’ve added that tip to the story since you posted this comment). But I wouldn’t necessarily recommend rock-climbing shoes, partly because they can be uncomfortable for a long period of time but also because sticky approach-style shoes would be good and more comfortable. I like the La Sportiva TX3 shoes.

The park often leaves a pile of old gloves, mostly leather, at the bottom of the cables for hikers to use and then toss back in the pile are their descent of the cables. Decent leather gloves will provide better grip than any other type.

I hope you enjoyed your hike up Half Dome.