Half Dome
Started in predawn light from Happy Isles Trailhead, climbing alongside the thundering spray of Vernal Falls on the Mist Trail. Continued past Nevada Falls into the forested calm of Little Yosemite Valley before the steep push up Sub Dome.
The cable ascent was a full-body effort — gripping steel wires while climbing steep granite at 8,000+ ft. The summit offered sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, Clouds Rest, and the High Sierra peaks beyond.
The return via the John Muir Trail provided a gentler descent, with Nevada Falls framed in late-afternoon light, before arriving back at the valley floor.
Climbing the Mist Trail at sunrise, drenched in the spray of Vernal Falls while the first light hit the granite walls.
Looking straight down from the cables — Yosemite Valley dropping thousands of feet below.
Sharing a quiet moment on the summit granite slab, taking in 360° views of the High Sierra.
Half Dome was as much mental as physical. The cables demanded absolute presence — every step intentional, every pull deliberate.
It was a reminder that the most intimidating challenges aren’t just completed — they’re carefully negotiated, one move at a time.
By the time I reached the summit, the fear had transformed into focus, and focus into joy.
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