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Now that the cables have been installed on Half Dome, hikers will be making the 17-mile round trip hike to the summit of the monolith. Thousands of people hike to the top of Half Dome each year. Because the hike is so accessible, people often underestimate what it takes to get to the top.

First, you must be in shape for a 17-mile hike that gains over 3,000 feet in elevation. Hiking boots and good woolen hiking socks are a necessity, as normal street shoes or athletic shoes with cotton socks don’t provide sufficient protection from the pounding of walking on granite rocked trails.

Because you will be exerting yourself, wear shorts, a short-sleeved shirt and a sun hat to stay cool, but also bring a backpack with protective clothing should the weather change: a water-repellent wind breaker, a light fleece sweater, and long legged pants to wear over your shorts.

Carry plenty of fresh water (at least a half-gallon per person) or a giardia filter (don’t drink water from Yosemite streams) and food for the trail (lunch, snacks, fruit, energy bars). Sun glasses, suntan lotion, mosquito repellent, a light camera, and a pair of light binoculars are all good things to carry and one person in your group should carry a small first aid kit for cuts, banged knees and blisters. With all these things, you will be a prepared hiker and make the most of your trip.

If you plan to hike to the top in a day, understand that you must begin early and you will return after dark. Only the very fit can climb to the top and back in less time. Wilderness permits are required in order to to camp halfway in Little Yosemite Valley. That is a welcomed alternative to doing it in a day, in that camping halfway cuts the hike into two easier sections.

Park officials caution that this is a strenuous hike and that hikers should come prepared and use caution, as many injuries occur from inattention while hiking on the trail. However, the reward is being able to say “I made it to the top!” and to look out upon Yosemite Valley and Yosemite National Park from the summit of Half Dome.