Half Dome is one of the most familiar site in the Yosemite. At an elevation of 8,842 feet, it towers about 4,500 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley. Half Dome provides inspiring views, and the accessible cable route makes it a must hike for visitors coming to Yosemite National Park.

Most of the ascents to Half Dome is made via a cable route. The cable is put up in late May and taken down in October. This means that the boards and posts are removed, but the cables are still there and are not difficult to use. The hike takes 10 to 12 hours to complete and it is advisable to start early to get back down before sunset. Over a dozen of rock climbing routes lead from the valley up Half Dome's steep northwest face. There are also other routes on its south face and west shoulder.