This iconic Yosemite hike ascends 4,800 feet from the valley floor to the summit of Half Dome. The trail passes Vernal and Nevada Falls before reaching the cable section—a steep climb requiring upper body strength to pull yourself up the final 400 feet using steel cables. Permits are required for the cable section (typically available from late May to early October, weather permitting). This challenging 16-mile round trip rewards hikers with panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.