| Here's a closer view
of the elusive Half Dome. "Half Dome is a rock formation at the
eastern end of Yosemite Valley, and may be the Valley's most familiar
sight. The granite crest rises more than 4737 feet above the Valley floor.
As late as 1870, Half Dome was considered completely unclimbable, but it may now be ascended in two different ways. Thousands of hikers reach the top each year by following a trail from the valley floor. The trailhead is only two miles from Half Dome itself, but the circuitous route is 8.5 miles long. The final ascent is accomplished by following a pair of metal cables raised on posts up the peak's steep but somewhat rounded east face." |