Liberty Cap and Nevada Falls in the morning. This was Jandy's first ever trip to Yosemite. We had only one day to spend there, so naturally we looked for the longest, steepest, most dangerous hike we could think of: Half Dome.
What an amazing coincidence! Without knowing that we had both planned concurrent trips to Yosemite, we happened to cross paths with our friend Ben from Eugene, who decided on a whim to join us on our quest for Half Dome glory.Looking over the edge of Nevada Falls, and then up at Liberty Cap.
Jon checks out some very large Ponderosa Pines.
Hiking through Little Yosemite Valley along the Merced River as Half Dome looms above.
Resting in the shade as we climb the Sub Dome. Less than a mile to go now.
Made it!
Feeling the altitude. No shade on top of Half Dome, only fatigue.
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A Whistlepig basks in the sun and takes in the incredible view.
Beginning the descent. Duct tape holding one of the cable posts together adds to the thrill of the whole 'cables' experience.
Feeling small as we hike past giant granite boulders and pine trees.An eddy in the Merced River above Nevada Falls.
Our tall shadows tell us what we don't want to hear: We'd better pick up the pace or we'll be hiking in the dark.
One last look at Half Dome, Mt. Broderick, and Liberty Cap as the sun sets.
Melt-water drips off the rocks and onto the trail like a cool rain; a refreshing treat for us sun-parched hikers.
At this point we're barely able to smile. We trudged the rest of the way down in pain and, for the last mile or so, in the light of the almost full moon. Luckily we caught the last bus from the trail head to the parking lot. What an adventure! I can't think of a better way to have spent the day!