Turning around when you are reaching your limits, and when your senses tell you that the situation is dangerous, is not a failure. It's a triumph of common sense and reason.
@@FaberAdventures My head was hurting for you, as the first thing l don on a sunny day is a sunvisor at the least. You did exactly what l would have done, especially knowing that once you reach the top of something hairy, you have to meet it again going down, which is probably the most dangerous part of a climb. I never understood the obsession with reaching the top in the first place - no one cares but oneself in the end. Oh, and "Valderi, valdera" (l love to go awandering...), was a favourite hiking song. :)
@@Bearwithme560 When I was on the cables, I was worried about coming back down if I went further, especially because I could see a few other sections with bigger gaps in the boards. Yea, I really did miss my hat. The sun was brutal even early in the morning! Lessons learned if I get the chance to try again. Thank you for commenting!
I think it was an especially wise choice. Watching other videos, the people coming down are expending a lot of energy and are stressed. You conserved energy that you may not have had coming back down.
@@velvetbees I was certainly worried about going further and getting stuck. My adrenaline was racing, and I could not shake the fear once it started. Thanks so much for commenting!
The first time I tried to climb Half Dome, I had a panic attack on Sub Dome. I needed help to get down. The second time I tried to climb Half Dome, I made it to the cables and started climbing, but I didn't make it as far as you did. I turned around and came back down. My hands were not strong enough to hang on and my shoes kept slipping. For me, I didn't have regret. I felt really proud that I made it that far. I went back 3 more times to Sub Dome just to hang out and watch everyone else climb. To this day, those trips to Half Dome are some of the best experiences I have ever had. I hope you stay proud of what you did!!! Congratulations on your effort!!!
Thank you for sharing your story! I felt like my hands were not strong enough too. Part of me was upset because it was such a good weather day with no clouds or chance of storms, but now that I'm back home I am so happy I was able to experience it. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Look, take solace in the fact you still had a great hike, saw some incredible views, it was a beautiful day and you had the courage to listen to your inner voice saying, ‘today’s not the day’. That takes a lot of smarts, bravo. Even if you decide to never do it again you made it up higher than 99.5% of the population! Way to go, girl.
You only went 99.988% farther on the Half Dome hike than 99.999% of the people on Earth will ever get. How is that a failure? Nope, not a failure. You did great. I've made it to the top 10-12 times over the last 30 years. My first time I was 40 years old. You have a lot of opportunity (in spite of the permit system) to do it again. I have to admit I was hoping you'd make that last stretch to the top (I kept saying, "keep going, keep going just a little more, you are almost there!"), but only the person on the cables can make that decision. Taking unsound advice from others is how people get hurt. Calling your attempt a failure...no, you succeeded far more than most will even attempt. Nice job. (By the way, I always worried more on the Sub Dome than on the cables. If you fall on the Sub Dome, there isn't anything to catch you.)
Thank you for that point of view. As a new channel I really appreciate this level of engagement. Your comment puts into perspective the scale of the achievement. That said, it remains on the list to be conquered. I appreciate you taking the time!
Hello, I've made that hike 3 times. made it to the top twice. The one time I didn't was because I also trusted my instincts. Sometimes strength is knowing when to concede it's time to tap out. You should be proud it"s a fete getting to the cables.
I went three times, made it first with a guided hike from the Sierra Club, I was 28. The co-leader put her foot in places where I could safely anchor my foot. I went back by myself two more times and stopped at the cables. On the 2nd a hiker lady was crying on the cables. freaked. That was a Long time ago and just recently I had a nightmare dreaming about someone sliding off... woke me up.
Came here expecting it to get real, and see a strong, courageous, and smart athlete, doing her thing. WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. This is the best Half Dome vid on RUclips. You show more of the entire trail, and you captured what it's really like on the cables. This was outstanding. My palms were getting sweaty during that climb, and I was having serious, "No ####ing way" thoughts, even in your shots on Sub-Dome. Anyone who can take themselves to the brink, and still have the courage to be smart and dial it back, is an absolute rockstar. Great job, and thanks for showing it. It wasn't a failure of any kind. You were full send the entire time.
Wow, thank you! I'm glad the intensity on the cables came through in the video. Bailing was a tough choice, but the right one. I'm definitely going to try again at some point. I really appreciate your comments.
Several suggestions, similar to some that others have mentioned. 1. Park at Happy Isle, if you arrive at 6am like you did for this hike you'll have no problem getting a parking spot and its a lot closer to the trailhead than Curry Village (its a 17 mile day, every little bit helps) 2. Pace yourself up to Nevada Falls. Now that you've done it once you probably realize that first 3 miles or so up to Nevada Falls is a tough hike itself. Also, on the way down, consider taking the JMT (at Nevada Falls) instead of the mist trail. Its a little longer, but much easier way down than all those steps and uneven rock on the Mist trail. 3. The cables. Its interesting that you tried one hand on each cable, pulling yourself up. Each time I did it, most people were doing hand over hand on just the right hand side. Seems like its better leverage versus one hand on the right cable and one hand on the left cable. This is of course, a personal decision. 4. The cables - should you clip in? This is also a personal decision of course. I did not clip in either of the two times I've done this hike, but I actually loved the cable section. I hated the subdome section, lol. Clipping in obviously provides a degree of safety, but it will also slow you down because you will run into many spots where you need to unclip and reclip past the sections where the cable meets a pole. Two options for clipping in include 1. combination harness and sling, with a carabiner connected to each end of your sling, and thus always have one attached to the cable. Easy to clip and unclip past the cable/pole intersections, but not as much security as 2. a harness with climbing rope, prusik knot. Prusik knots are amazing, but it will take much longer tieing a new prusik knot at each of the spots the cable is interfered with by a pole, which means much longer time in total making your way up the cables. check out youtube videos as you plan and consider whats best for you. REI can fit you for a harness and a sling or rope material for prusik knot approach. Good Luck, be safe, and give yourself an atta boy and some grace for an amazing hike.
These are incredible suggestions, thank you for sharing! 1) I wasn't sure how early the Happy Isle lot would fill up, but when I got there the lot only had one other car in it. Definitely worth moving the car. 2) Why does no one talk about how steep the mist trail is to that first bridge with the water station? It's paved and brutal. I actually did take the JMT down as there were a lot of people going up to Nevada Falls and I figured the section by Vernal Falls would be busy too. Once I got past Clark Point the trail became very quiet and shaded. 3) One hand on each side seemed like the most logical way to go up, but it was rough on my hands and upper body. On the way down the ranger was giving demonstrations to groups at the sub dome and she was telling them to do one hand over the other. She wasn't there when I started up the sub dome, but who knows if the Ranger's advice would've made a difference. 4) Thank you! I am taking all of these tips for my next attempt.
Just remember Everest is full of bodies who where once highly motivated individuals!! Turning around saves lives !!! Loved the video ❤my dream is Everest one day.
Done Half Dome before, watching this makes me want to do it again. But I would never attempt it if the temp was going to reach 95, yikes. Liked the shot looking up the cables! 👍
I enjoyed the video, thanks for posting it. I was just up there last October, solo as well, and I can fully agree that the cables are TERRIFYING. No video or social media post can prepare you (the royal you) for how it will feel or how you may react when you get there. So there’s only one way to find out, and you should be super proud that you did.
I agree with you 100%. I watched videos and did so much research before going, but yea, that dome is intense and there are no video angles that do it justice. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment!
Your Fine! You freaking made it to Half Dome you finished it basically don't worry about the technically part. I did this solo in 2011 too. Wish I had a girl like you to do it back then in my prime. Took a shot of yegar with me at the top too ha ha. Your alive and you saw most of it.
Thank you for taking the time to comment... as a new channel we appreciate the engagement, and I will certainly make sure that my husband reads your comment! I agree that he's pretty lucky :)
You hiked quarter dome and sub dome on a hot day. Impressive! Heard you got to have the right shoes. Nice there is a campground half way for those who want to breakt it up over 2 days.
Absolutely... different shoes may have changed everything! Thank you for taking the time to comment! Camping at Yosemite is definitely on our list. I have been thinking about breaing it up next time. Lots to consider.
@@FaberAdventures If you want to backpack it I think the reasonable ways to do it are the Little Yosemite Valley permit from Happy Isles, the Sunrise Lakes permit from Tenaya Lake (could do Clouds Rest on that trip too), or the Lyell Canyon permit. Though if I got the Lyell Canyon I'd say to hell with Half Dome and cross over Donahue Pass into the Ansel Adams Wilderness and go see Thousand Island Lake and Lake Catherine instead. Wanted that permit last time I went but struck out and had to do the trip to Thousand Island Lake/Banner Peak/Mt Ritter/Lake Catherine from the Mono Pass trailhead instead, which was still amazing, but Koip Peak Pass with a pack and and a bear can on my back was quite exhausting. Though I see now that Lyell Canyon got put into two different permits: one that can cross Donahue Pass and one that can't. I suppose they did that to keep the people targeting Half Dome from getting all the permits for it.
I agree with the other commenters, it's not a fail, it's a "mostly done"! You got a long way up and made a good safety decision. Most people don't get (or want) the opportunity to do this, and you did great! Nice videography too.
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I've taken a look at your content and see that you're on a journey of your own! We checked out your website - we'll be following along!
Lots of respect from a first-time viewer here. You did great. Getting out and hiking solo? That's an accomplishment all in itself. Setting out for half-dome and then making the very wise decision to not be foolish and require rescue? Fantastic! Pay absolutely no attention to any naysayers in your comments beyond the fact that you are the better person than they are. Oh! And hey. I just read your bio here. Amy, Al.....Best of luck to you both in this new chapter in your lives. I hate to even imagine what the motivation is behind your decisions to so this but God Bless. I think most probably I've been through what you have.
Thank you for your kind words. We really appreciate it! This started out as a way to show our kids some of the trails, and it slowly morphed into the idea that we can share our experiences and learnings with others and have some fun doing it. The comments have been incredible...
I did HD when I was around 24 or so. I would say I was in good shape at the time, but I was a skinny guy, no big muscles at all, probably around your size. Never trained for it or did practice hikes. My two friends and I just did it all in one day and we got up to the top and down, but the cables were the worst part. We got stuck coming down and were on the cables for almost 90 minutes because someone got scared and blocked the way. Since you're basically climbing and rappelling, all the strength is coming from your arms to hold on and we were barely holding on towards the end. I guess I'm glad I was able to accomplish it, but I will never do it again. what no one realizes is how steep the cables actually are and how stupid it is in reality, lol. There are so many other great hikes that give just as good, if not better, views that are way less dangerous. Kudos to you for knowing your limits
Thank you for sharing. Congratulations on making it to the top! Yep those cables are so steep! Of course I've seen pictures and videos, but it is so intimidating standing up close to it. The two sections with the missing boards really messed with me. I do hope to try again.
It takes just as much courage and good sense to turn around as it does to keep going to the top. As many Mt Everest and K2 climbers say, my accomplishment to listen to the voice of reason to turn around was my summit. Good for you girl!
Yes, agree 100%! I don't know how many attempts it will take, but I am definitely planning on crossing it off of the list. My husband says someday I will add Everest to my list! Thank you for taking the time to comment.
@@FaberAdventuresI like this, my summit. If I was to do it again I'd take rock climbing gear and latch onto the cable. But I love clouds rest with a higher view and easier hike, that's my more likely hike.
I’m so relieved you turned around! Your life is more important than a climb. You did great!!! My husband & did Half Dome 3 years ago ….i had to rest…my arms were also tired!!! You did awesome 🎉🎉🎉
I agree 100%. It was just too much for me that day. I mainly was upset with myself because it was such great weather (even though it was hot), and I won a permit on the first try so I felt a little like I had wasted it. I learned so much for when I try again. Thank you so much for sharing!
You didn't fail at all. All too often we value achievements over the actual experiences themselves, but I'm sure that you were fully immersed in your beautiful--and sometimes frightening--surroundings. That is enough. I have so much respect for not only what you accomplished, but for your wisdom in turning around when you evaluated your situation and thought it best to not continue. It takes a lot of courage and humility to follow our "gut" and not be swayed by ego.
@@phillipmacdiarmid8496 Thank you for taking the time to post such a thoughtful reply! I agree with what you’re saying. It was a difficult choice for sure, but the right one!
My husband and I did half dome in July! The cables were very taxing and I remember reaching around the same point as you thinking maybe I dont have enough strength for this! We ultimately made it to the top but I did not have that nagging feeling of something feeling off. Trust your gut always! And I did actually have a song stuck in my head during this hike.... Steady as She goes by The Raconteurs haha. It was fitting for me. Part of the mist trail was closed when we went so our stats were 21 mi huge day!
I'm so happy you both made it to the top! I really let my fear take over on the cables, and I couldn't overcome it. Plus, at one point I think I looked off to the side and down to the view of the sheer drop. Then ahead of me were the two sections with the missing boards, ugh! 21 miles is a great hike! I went up the mist trail, but I came down the JMT because the crowds definitely increased by the waterfalls in the afternoon. Thank you for sharing!
I certainly appreciate that information! After I came down, I sat on the sub dome for almost an hour watching people go up and down, and I had to remind myself that where I was sitting had a great view too. Thank you for the kind words on the video!
Really nicely done. Big day in the wilderness, solo. Yours is the “how to do it” picture. Very very cool. Some other day, the summit will be there, and so will the experience from this trip. Great job!
My heart goes out to you. You are one courageous person! God bless you! As the poem goes "If at first you don't succeed, Try try try again! (Not Half Dome perhaps ☺)! Best!
I agree! I actually was feeling so good while I was hiking that I was going to be able to do it, and then on the cables I looked to the side and down (plus my alarm, ugh) and I let all of the fear move right in. At least now I know what to expect. Thank you for commenting!
The granite was scary slippery when I hiked it years ago and I don't think I'd attempt it again. Next time you're in the area give Clouds Rest, Mount Hoffmann, and/or Mount Dana a try. All incredibly rewarding whether looking down into Tenaya Canyon ascending the summit ridge of Clouds Rest or admiring the stunning view of Half Dome from Hoffman or on the summit of Dana where you have great views of the Lyell Glacier and Mono Lake. None of those hikes are easy, but they're not the 16 mile 5000 foot elevation gain slog that Half Dome is. Though you'd definitely want to do them later in the season as I saw a bunch of snow on Hoffmann on one of your shots.
This is a spectacular comment! Thank you for these recommendations! I am adding them to my list for the next time. I only had two days in Yosemite and Tioga Rd was closed at the time.
@@FaberAdventures I like those three hikes in August and later. If you do Clouds Rest from the Sunrise trailhead for instance it can require a wade through freezing cold water that could be up to neck deep if you do it when the road opens, but when I did it in late August that same outlet from Tenaya Lake was maybe a few inches deep. Also, in another comment I recommended three backcountry permits you could get to do Half Dome without having to do that slog up Vernal and Nevada Fall first the same day, and I forgot to mention Panorama Trail from Glacier Point would probably also be doable to work a Half Dome trip in after a good night's rest camping in Little Yosemite Valley. I personally wouldn't get too fixated on Half Dome though. It's a great hike for sure but Yosemite is filled to the brim with ridiculously awesome dayhikes and backpacks.
Also the high country is way cooler temperature wise. Last trip I went it was like 102 in the valley but it was very comfortable camping at Tuolumne Meadows the night before my backpacking permit started. Was maybe mid 70s at 6PM or so when I got up there.
@@homerthompson416 Thank you so much for all of this information. I actually would love to take my son on the Cloud's Rest hike and that tip about the water levels is huge. I felt so lucky to win the Half Dome permit but once I got to Yosemite, I realized how much time could easily be spent there. I know I barely scratched the surface, and I can't wait to bring my family there to experience it.
@@FaberAdventures I'll caution Clouds Rest's summit ridge can get only a few feet wide at parts, with a huge dropoff into Tenaya Canyon, though the summit itself is pretty spacious. So if your boy is comfortable with heights no problem whatsoever, but if he's not I think the dropoff to Tenaya Canyon might be kind of scary. Here's a good video showing what the summit ridge looks like at the narrowest part: ruclips.net/user/shortsvjhHeCUoR7g It's a walk up though, no climbing or bouldering or anything like that if you take the trail. Also about a 14 mile roundtrip though thankfully you gain most of the altitude in some switchbacks pretty early in the trail and by the time you're at the summit ridge the views are so great you don't care.
@@FaberAdventures I believe I have the physical ability to do that hike, but what concerns me most is the number of people. It's also a long hike to get to the cables. My wife and I did a different hike in place of Half Dome, although she is very scared of heights. I'd suggest you take a look at Cloud's Rest, which starts outside of the valley. It is less crowded and arguably offers better views of the valley.
@@timsell6087 I was at the base of Half Dome just before 10am and there was really no one in front of me, and I had three people behind me. After I came down there was an influx of people just starting up and then a line was formed. The hike to the cables is 8 miles, but I actually thought it wasn't terrible (the hardest sections besides the cables were the beginning of the mist trail and the sub dome). Thank you for the Cloud's rest suggestion! I actually have that one on my list. My son has already told me he will never try Half Dome, but I think he would enjoy Cloud's Rest, though I have read the spine can be intense too.
@@timsell6087 Just to add...the cables are intense, and in some places, there are longer stretches where the wooden boards are missing which is what really gave me pause. Next time I will bring a harness and hopefully that will help my anxiety.
The Half Dome adventure is not just the last 400 feet! Hey I thought subdome was harder than the cables and you did that!! My favorite hike in the park is Clouds rest. It’s even more beautiful on the summit because you look down in half dome. You might like that one. Keep adventuring.
This makes me a little sad because you tried so hard. Still you have nothing to be ashamed of. And it's still going to be there if you decide to try it again. Great effort!
I know the exact feeling you had, did the same thing you did a few years ago, made it (what felt like half way up the cables) then turned around…then the next year I did a half day hike to LYV then did the hike to half dome the next, a lot more relaxed and definitely worth it if you can try again!!
Thank you for sharing! That certainly gives me hope. A few people have mentioned camping at LYV, and I do remember seeing the campsite when I was hiking. My husband has agreed to try it with me next time, and I think camping might be the way to go.
Most people will never know how much courage and willpower it takes to day-hike Half Dome by yourself. It takes even more guts to solo hike Half Dome on your first try. It takes huge guts to post something you consider a failure of yours. Much respect! The biggest surprise in this video is how few people you encountered on the way to the sub-dome! Great video, and you’ll do it next time!
@@FaberAdventures Have you considered backpacking so you could stay a night at Little Yosemite Valley and thus be fresh to do the cables without having worn yourself out gaining 4400 feet of elevation in the hours before reaching them? It's a tough permit to get though, as is any permit that can be reasonably worked into a Half Dome climb.
@@homerthompson416 Thank you for the suggestion! I didn't consider it for this last hike, but it's something I am considering for next time. I honestly would love to camp in Yosemite even if it doesn't include Half Dome. I really appreciate all of these tips!
Yep, that's the plan for next time. Any recommendations on brands? Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. As a new channel we appreciate the engagement.
@@FaberAdventuresDo a web search on "best via ferrata equipment." Expect to spend about $300. Practice with your equipment at home before heading to Half Dome so you are "fluent" with it. Go with a companion if possible, someone who will encourage you, but not pressure you to continue if your gut feelings say "Turn around." Other tips: On a long hike it's best to pace yourself so you aren't breathing hard. Take a 100% cotton boonie hat, soaking wet, in a ziplock and when you start getting hot, put it on and snug up the chin strap. Carry extra water to re-wet it as necessary. This is major protection against heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Forgetting to snack and drink? Not allowed. Mix medical-strength electrolyte powder into your water for drinking before, during, and after your hike. Eat a high-protein, high fat breakfast and include protein and fat in every snack. I went to the top of Half Dome three times in the 1980's, wearing good hiking boots. These days, I'd wear hiking footwear to the bottom of the cables then switch to rock-climbing shoes with a good grip on rock. You did the right thing, obeying your gut feeling that you should go back down. This is a success, not a failure! Gut feelings help us stay safe! To paraphrase one of the world's top mountain climbers, "Getting to the top is optional. Safely getting back down to your loved ones is not optional." Best wishes for many wonderful adventures!
I am glad you turned back! thank god! Don't consider this as a failure but success to understand your limits. I am sure you will try and succeed another day! good luck on your new channel!
@FaberAdventures NEVER GIVE UP I HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR LIFE IS PRECIOUS When I saw you climbing 1/2 Dome Inspiration to us all I truly mean that God Bless & YOU DID it on your own
I know, hiking then climbing. I agree with other comments. you did your best. It was not a failure,just a learning experience.thanks for the video. Two thumbs up!
I turned around a short way up the cables when I was 12. It was with the boy scouts. I knew, that if I slipped, I was going either left or right down the slope to die. Ps, clouds rest is easy and beautiful too!
Awesome that you did it at 12! At some point I looked to the right and down and that definitely heightened my anxiety. Appreciate the Cloud's rest tip, and the comment!
Not a fail at all! Husband and I tried to climb it long ago but the fear of heights got us at the beginning of the subdome! Same with Angels Landing - nope. You did great and showcased Yosemite's beauty.
My head hears so many different songs & voices (usually of people I know, living or not) when I’m grinding in the mountains. It never stops. You did really well for someone who lives at sea level!!!
PS: I’ve never been to Yosemite, and I feel like half dome is a lofty goal. You did great! I live in Wyoming, & the older I get, the better I was. I have had so many little character failures on mountains here, I have learned a great deal from failures and successes. You are sharing a personal growth experience which helps a lot of us. Good on ya!
Thank you so much for sharing! If I am not singing in my head than I have conversations with myself on long hikes. It passes the time in a way, but it's also therapeutic for me. I agree - the mountains are always teaching us new things about ourselves. I was very disappointed when I was there, but now that a little time has passed, I am looking forward to my next hike wherever that may be. I appreciate you commenting (twice)!
Good going….I think it takes a lot of guts to do it alone. I can imagine your hike back in the dark was pretty creepy too. The top is not a hike but an assisted climb. It seems like you were most of the way through the hard part. The middle section is very steep.. I did it last year with my fiancé both of us are former Army Airborne but I would not do it again without a harness. It is a dangerous climb. If you lose your grip…that’s all she wrote.
@@FaberAdventures Yes! One of my favorite Christmas shows as a kid - that song automatically pops up in my head on those long hikes or jogs when I'm tired..
Out of shape 50 yr old woman here. That song popped into my head hiking up a trail at Tower Falls in YNP. My couple of decades younger group left me behind even though I had started up before them. Altitude is no joke when hiking, I had to keep stopping to try to catch my breath, felt like I was on the verge of hyperventilating. One person finally came back and tried to push me to not stop but I know my body and didn't want to pass out. I never have passed out but have come close to it and recognize the signs of tunnel vision.
You did accomplish quite a bit on that hike. I could tell you weren’t going to make it because of your breathing and the heat you experienced early on your hike. You definitely made the correct decision to come back down and live another day. That decision was your crown prize. In my prime I couldn’t have done what you accomplished. I would say you lived a thousand years on that day. A great memory to share with your family. Peace out from San Antonio, Texas.
You did really Great! The hike up there is the most beautiful scenery. Wow, the way you had the camera placed I felt like I was making the hike with you.😊
Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. The hike up to the cables is incredible. I was lucky to experience the waterfalls in full force. Thank you for taking the time.
Ive had similar experiences twice at angels landing in zion. I started the last section with the chains and decided that part wasnt for me. Still a great hike up to that point. Good job for how much you have done.
if u only made it 1/3 of the way up and started having trouble, good to turn around as it only gets steeper near the 3/4 mark. I only go during off season when there is no lottery and cables are down, it sounds worse but imo its much safer. almost everyone is attached to the cable and not many ppl so no rush.
@@aliensoup2420 I originally thought it would be scarier to do it that way (through watching videos), but it’s actually probably safer because it’s less people and you are fully attached.
The key is to wear a safety harness and carabiner to clip on to the cable. Then you don't have to depend entirely on your hand grip strength to keep you safe. Before I did the hike I had done weight training for 20 years, but my hands still fatigued from holding on to the cable. Everybody should wear a harness on the cables - even expert climbers, because even experts die on mountains, and everybody that fell from the cables did not wear a harness.
I appreciate you taking the time to comment! Next time I will definitely have a harness with the carabiner system. When I was researching before the hike most people said it wasn't necessary, but I think it would've been helpful for me. Live and learn...
I hiked in 2017 n had to turn around, too. I started super early n turned around n went back to my campsite n then my sister called the next day telling me about a woman falling the same day I hiked it. I didn’t even know or hear anything about anything it. I am just glad I trusted my guts n gave up. Good u did too.
Thank you for sharing your own experience! You just never know... It was a difficult decision, but I know it was the right one! As you point out, sometimes you just have to trust the gut!! We appreciate you taking the time
I don’t think this was a fail at all, I think you were incredibly brave. I went up with my son a few years ago, and he had trouble with traction on his boots, so it really stressed him out. I’m not sure he would’ve continued if I wasn’t behind him as some kind of sense of security. And you still did 99.9% of the physical challenge required for the whole journey. And you were alone! And as others have said, you got to see some unbelievable views. So I hope you feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment. And thank you for posting this as an alternative to some of the other videos that try to make themselves look good by making it seem so easy for them. You gave a dose of reality, which was also very brave. So congratulations all around.
Thank you for this thoughtful comment! I was certainly upset with myself at the time, but it was the right decision for me to come back down. I loved the entire hike, but I agree with you people do not discuss the physical strength it takes to climb the cables. Hopefully I can get it next time. Thank you for taking the time!
Good job...always follow your gut! If you decide to try again, maybe consider spending a night in Little Yosemite, and then climbing Half Dome the next day when you're fresh....and be sure to have shoes with good treads. Well Done!
Thank you for these tips! Camping at LYV is on the list for the next attempt, and I am thinking about approach shoes for next time. My shoes were actually new with vibram soles and I still felt they were slipping in that last section I was on. I appreciate you commenting!
Very wise not to continue if you have doubts. I can't imagine anything worse than being stuck on those cables exhausted and gripped by fear. With my issues about heights, I wouldn't even attempt sub-dome.
Nice video. We just did it last saturday and we camp at Little Yosemite Valley. I was lucky, I got an invite for party of 4. My friends were so supportive, patient and helpful, since I'm afraid of heights in any ways but still love hiking. I like videos and photos but going up and down in the cables, I gave up those and just focus on my climbing, pray and pay attention what's around me. Hold the cables tight and focus my upper body strenght and made sure my feet/boots will grip the wall. I think what's my hardest battle and how I overcome it and apply it while climbing the cables, if I survive my hardest battle, I will survive the climbing the cables. Hope you try again and bring friends so it's not so nervous.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. That must have been a wonderful trip for you and your friends... The fact that you were able to overcome your fear of heights is incredible! I have every intention of trying again!
Nothing is easier to get than free advice! But you made a courageous decision, and the right one. If making it to the top continues to inspire you, I have a couple of suggestions, because you do have the ability to climb it. First, work your upper body so you have more hand and arm strength. Second, camp in LYV and break the hike into 2 parts. This way you don’t have to do the cables after climbing 4K+ feet. Three, get approach shoes and consider clipping in to take away the fear of slipping. Fear is really a killer on HD. Lastly, on the cables, don’t look down, up, or side to side. The only thing you need to do is go one step at a time, which only requires you to focus on the next step. This keeps the fear thoughts down. If you don’t feel a pull anymore, go hike Cloud’s Rest!
I welcome all suggestions for the next time! I will definitely have some type of approach shoe and a harness for the next try. I had new trail runners with vibram soles, but the spot where I decided to go back down there were no boards and the granite felt so incredibly slippery there. While I was kind of stuck in that spot, I made the mistake of looking off to the side and down and the fear factor definitely went up a few decimals. I will certainly take the advice of just looking forward! The hike getting up to the cables was awesome and I was feeling really good, but those cables are a beast! Definitely going to work my arms more leading to the next one. Other people have mentioned camping at LYV, and I think I am going to give that a try. I would love to camp in Yosemite anyway. I would love to hike to Cloud's rest too. I'm going to need more time in Yosemite! My last trip was a whirlwind of only two days including the day I hiked to HD. I really appreciate you taking the time to help make my next attempt a better outcome.
Thank you for that suggestion! I was getting so nervous on the cables that I think I lost track of the things I do on a regular ascent. Definitely something I will focus on the next time. I appreciate you taking the time to comment.
I takes a lot of sense and courage to make wise decisions and you have a good head on your shoulders. The mountain will be there tomorrow and next year and 500 years, it’s not going anywhere. Only a small percentage of the world make it to the point you reached. It’s likely due to heights, anxiety and vertigo that this won’t ever be for me so I envy those that can make it up there sub dome and half dome. That’s not something anyone can do. Some people die pushing themselves or being careless. Don’t be hard on yourself because you can always go for it again and do even better.
I really appreciate this perspective. It is important to keep the scale of the achievement in focus. It's always hard to make decisions that run against something that we've wanted so badly. I always tell my son that the summit is not the sole objective, making it back to the car is. Sincere thanks for taking the time to put together this thoughtful comment.
That spot is actually a bit tricky, because of uneven surface, your left leg is straight while right is bent (like standing on stairs sideway) and this is one of the steepest and slippery parts. Here I actually had to pull myself with my arms to get through, also press my left foot to the side of that 'stair' rock in order to get more traction. If you pass this part you can do the rest for sure.
I really appreciate this insight! I remember at that spot really trying to analyze what I was supposed to do, and I just felt stuck. This is such good intel for next time. Thank you!
Did good but you needed to take more breaks and that alarm was your undoing. No hat too. Time of day makes a difference too. I did it easily in the morning after camping in LYV. It was a little tougher later in the day my second time after hiking from Sunrise Lakes and my arms were a bit tired from hiking poles. The afternoon climb was way more slippery as well from other peoples dirt on the rock. You’ll get it next time. Stop midway if you need too. Also, for going down- firemans grip facing down is so much more easy. PSS- I think Angels landing requires alot more finesse and athletism
Right - that alarm, ugh! I'm hoping to maybe camp next time and break up the hike. I was on the cables around 10am but with the heat that day it was still brutally hot. The only part on Angels Landing that got me was the one very narrow section with drop offs on both sides. Otherwise, I kind of leaned into the rock and I was okay. Thank you for these tips and taking the time to comment!
Better to live another day. One fail on that can kill you. It was a smart move. You were doing great. You should have just listened to your alarm and took that snack break....? I bet you could have made it on your second wind. It was a lovely trek, those were some nice shots. I never did this because of all the congestion but those water falls are worth it alone.
That's a good call. I don't know honestly. My nerves were rattled at that point, and it started to get crowded right after I came down. The waterfalls were awesome. Thank you for taking the time.
When I was researching before the hike it seemed like the consensus was that clipping wasn't necessary, and that it would slow you and the line down. If I get the chance to try again, I am planning on bringing a harness and clipping.
@@FaberAdventures The consensus is mostly delusional fools. They believe it is safe because they didn't die. But everybody that has died were not being safe.
I'm curious, if you decide to go back does that mean everyone behind you has to go back down too? I could hear people behind you is why I was wondering.
No, the people behind me each stood on a wooden board and then held one side of the cable as I passed down the other. To do it safely certainly requires coordination between the hikers. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
bummed you turned around right before it gets easy again. If you decide to do it again don't go solo. Go with someone who has done it before. Best of luck
Thank you for taking the time to comment. LOL. The people immediately behind me on the cables could hear my alarm, and I felt terrible. They were very understanding about it.
I know I know... heartbreaker. My foot slipped at one point - coupled with sheer exhaustion and the alarm... just had to make the call. Thank you for taking the time to comment! We truly appreciate the participation!
Turning around when you are reaching your limits, and when your senses tell you that the situation is dangerous, is not a failure. It's a triumph of common sense and reason.
Hindsight is clear as day... in the moment, it was a tough choice.
@@FaberAdventures My head was hurting for you, as the first thing l don on a sunny day is a sunvisor at the least. You did exactly what l would have done, especially knowing that once you reach the top of something hairy, you have to meet it again going down, which is probably the most dangerous part of a climb. I never understood the obsession with reaching the top in the first place - no one cares but oneself in the end. Oh, and "Valderi, valdera" (l love to go awandering...), was a favourite hiking song. :)
@@Bearwithme560 When I was on the cables, I was worried about coming back down if I went further, especially because I could see a few other sections with bigger gaps in the boards. Yea, I really did miss my hat. The sun was brutal even early in the morning! Lessons learned if I get the chance to try again. Thank you for commenting!
I think it was an especially wise choice. Watching other videos, the people coming down are expending a lot of energy and are stressed. You conserved energy that you may not have had coming back down.
@@velvetbees I was certainly worried about going further and getting stuck. My adrenaline was racing, and I could not shake the fear once it started. Thanks so much for commenting!
Don’t feel bad, you did great ✊When I got there, I declined going up the cables. Your gut might have saved your life… ✅
I appreciate the perspective, and I think you're right. Thank you for taking the time!
The first time I tried to climb Half Dome, I had a panic attack on Sub Dome. I needed help to get down. The second time I tried to climb Half Dome, I made it to the cables and started climbing, but I didn't make it as far as you did. I turned around and came back down. My hands were not strong enough to hang on and my shoes kept slipping.
For me, I didn't have regret. I felt really proud that I made it that far.
I went back 3 more times to Sub Dome just to hang out and watch everyone else climb.
To this day, those trips to Half Dome are some of the best experiences I have ever had.
I hope you stay proud of what you did!!!
Congratulations on your effort!!!
Thank you for sharing your story! I felt like my hands were not strong enough too. Part of me was upset because it was such a good weather day with no clouds or chance of storms, but now that I'm back home I am so happy I was able to experience it. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Your phone alarm going off was a meaning in life and you turned around which was very wisely done.
I appreciate your comment, thank you!
Look, take solace in the fact you still had a great hike, saw some incredible views, it was a beautiful day and you had the courage to listen to your inner voice saying, ‘today’s not the day’. That takes a lot of smarts, bravo. Even if you decide to never do it again you made it up higher than 99.5% of the population! Way to go, girl.
Thank you! I agree with you. I was mad at myself at the time, but it was the right call. I appreciate you commenting!
You only went 99.988% farther on the Half Dome hike than 99.999% of the people on Earth will ever get. How is that a failure? Nope, not a failure. You did great. I've made it to the top 10-12 times over the last 30 years. My first time I was 40 years old. You have a lot of opportunity (in spite of the permit system) to do it again. I have to admit I was hoping you'd make that last stretch to the top (I kept saying, "keep going, keep going just a little more, you are almost there!"), but only the person on the cables can make that decision. Taking unsound advice from others is how people get hurt. Calling your attempt a failure...no, you succeeded far more than most will even attempt. Nice job.
(By the way, I always worried more on the Sub Dome than on the cables. If you fall on the Sub Dome, there isn't anything to catch you.)
Thank you for that point of view. As a new channel I really appreciate this level of engagement. Your comment puts into perspective the scale of the achievement. That said, it remains on the list to be conquered. I appreciate you taking the time!
Very well said👍
Hello, I've made that hike 3 times. made it to the top twice. The one time I didn't was because I also trusted my instincts. Sometimes strength is knowing when to concede it's time to tap out. You should be proud it"s a fete getting to the cables.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and I agree completely. It wasn't so easy in the moment, but you are absolutely correct.
I went three times, made it first with a guided hike from the Sierra Club, I was 28. The co-leader put her foot in places where I could safely anchor my foot. I went back by myself two more times and stopped at the cables. On the 2nd a hiker lady was crying on the cables. freaked. That was a Long time ago and just recently I had a nightmare dreaming about someone sliding off... woke me up.
@naturemusic88 thank you for sharing!
Came here expecting it to get real, and see a strong, courageous, and smart athlete, doing her thing. WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED.
This is the best Half Dome vid on RUclips. You show more of the entire trail, and you captured what it's really like on the cables. This was outstanding.
My palms were getting sweaty during that climb, and I was having serious, "No ####ing way" thoughts, even in your shots on Sub-Dome.
Anyone who can take themselves to the brink, and still have the courage to be smart and dial it back, is an absolute rockstar. Great job, and thanks for showing it. It wasn't a failure of any kind. You were full send the entire time.
Wow, thank you! I'm glad the intensity on the cables came through in the video. Bailing was a tough choice, but the right one. I'm definitely going to try again at some point. I really appreciate your comments.
You didn't fail! You had the sense to stop and live to hike another day.
I appreciate your comment, thank you! I was definitely upset at the time, but in hindsight I know I made the right choice.
Several suggestions, similar to some that others have mentioned.
1. Park at Happy Isle, if you arrive at 6am like you did for this hike you'll have no problem getting a parking spot and its a lot closer to the trailhead than Curry Village (its a 17 mile day, every little bit helps)
2. Pace yourself up to Nevada Falls. Now that you've done it once you probably realize that first 3 miles or so up to Nevada Falls is a tough hike itself. Also, on the way down, consider taking the JMT (at Nevada Falls) instead of the mist trail. Its a little longer, but much easier way down than all those steps and uneven rock on the Mist trail.
3. The cables. Its interesting that you tried one hand on each cable, pulling yourself up. Each time I did it, most people were doing hand over hand on just the right hand side. Seems like its better leverage versus one hand on the right cable and one hand on the left cable. This is of course, a personal decision.
4. The cables - should you clip in? This is also a personal decision of course. I did not clip in either of the two times I've done this hike, but I actually loved the cable section. I hated the subdome section, lol. Clipping in obviously provides a degree of safety, but it will also slow you down because you will run into many spots where you need to unclip and reclip past the sections where the cable meets a pole. Two options for clipping in include 1. combination harness and sling, with a carabiner connected to each end of your sling, and thus always have one attached to the cable. Easy to clip and unclip past the cable/pole intersections, but not as much security as 2. a harness with climbing rope, prusik knot. Prusik knots are amazing, but it will take much longer tieing a new prusik knot at each of the spots the cable is interfered with by a pole, which means much longer time in total making your way up the cables. check out youtube videos as you plan and consider whats best for you. REI can fit you for a harness and a sling or rope material for prusik knot approach.
Good Luck, be safe, and give yourself an atta boy and some grace for an amazing hike.
These are incredible suggestions, thank you for sharing! 1) I wasn't sure how early the Happy Isle lot would fill up, but when I got there the lot only had one other car in it. Definitely worth moving the car. 2) Why does no one talk about how steep the mist trail is to that first bridge with the water station? It's paved and brutal. I actually did take the JMT down as there were a lot of people going up to Nevada Falls and I figured the section by Vernal Falls would be busy too. Once I got past Clark Point the trail became very quiet and shaded. 3) One hand on each side seemed like the most logical way to go up, but it was rough on my hands and upper body. On the way down the ranger was giving demonstrations to groups at the sub dome and she was telling them to do one hand over the other. She wasn't there when I started up the sub dome, but who knows if the Ranger's advice would've made a difference. 4) Thank you! I am taking all of these tips for my next attempt.
Magnificent effort!
Thank you!
Just remember Everest is full of bodies who where once highly motivated individuals!! Turning around saves lives !!! Loved the video ❤my dream is Everest one day.
Very true! So glad the video resonated for you. I hope you get to attempt your dream someday. Thank you for sharing!
Thank God you went back down! It takes bravery to make that decision for yourself. You did the smart thing. You still did an incredible hike!
Thank you for taking the time! We appreciate the support. Definitely better to fight another day.
Done Half Dome before, watching this makes me want to do it again. But I would never attempt it if the temp was going to reach 95, yikes. Liked the shot looking up the cables! 👍
Thank you for taking the time to comment! It was unseasonably warm. I was there in June during a heat wave.
I enjoyed the video, thanks for posting it. I was just up there last October, solo as well, and I can fully agree that the cables are TERRIFYING. No video or social media post can prepare you (the royal you) for how it will feel or how you may react when you get there. So there’s only one way to find out, and you should be super proud that you did.
I agree with you 100%. I watched videos and did so much research before going, but yea, that dome is intense and there are no video angles that do it justice. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment!
Your Fine! You freaking made it to Half Dome you finished it basically don't worry about the technically part. I did this solo in 2011 too. Wish I had a girl like you to do it back then in my prime. Took a shot of yegar with me at the top too ha ha. Your alive and you saw most of it.
Thank you for taking the time to comment... as a new channel we appreciate the engagement, and I will certainly make sure that my husband reads your comment! I agree that he's pretty lucky :)
The cables look like they take so much arm strength! I couldn't do it. You did the best thing a hiker can do - you listened to your body!
Thank you for taking the time. Yes, the cables are taxing on your upper body. Next time I will be better prepared.
You hiked quarter dome and sub dome on a hot day. Impressive! Heard you got to have the right shoes. Nice there is a campground half way for those who want to breakt it up over 2 days.
Absolutely... different shoes may have changed everything! Thank you for taking the time to comment! Camping at Yosemite is definitely on our list. I have been thinking about breaing it up next time. Lots to consider.
@@FaberAdventures If you want to backpack it I think the reasonable ways to do it are the Little Yosemite Valley permit from Happy Isles, the Sunrise Lakes permit from Tenaya Lake (could do Clouds Rest on that trip too), or the Lyell Canyon permit. Though if I got the Lyell Canyon I'd say to hell with Half Dome and cross over Donahue Pass into the Ansel Adams Wilderness and go see Thousand Island Lake and Lake Catherine instead. Wanted that permit last time I went but struck out and had to do the trip to Thousand Island Lake/Banner Peak/Mt Ritter/Lake Catherine from the Mono Pass trailhead instead, which was still amazing, but Koip Peak Pass with a pack and and a bear can on my back was quite exhausting. Though I see now that Lyell Canyon got put into two different permits: one that can cross Donahue Pass and one that can't. I suppose they did that to keep the people targeting Half Dome from getting all the permits for it.
@@homerthompson416 Amazing suggestions, thank you! I have copied all of this into my running list.
I agree with the other commenters, it's not a fail, it's a "mostly done"! You got a long way up and made a good safety decision. Most people don't get (or want) the opportunity to do this, and you did great! Nice videography too.
Thank you for taking the time to comment. I've taken a look at your content and see that you're on a journey of your own! We checked out your website - we'll be following along!
@@FaberAdventures Thanks!!
Lots of respect from a first-time viewer here.
You did great.
Getting out and hiking solo? That's an accomplishment all in itself.
Setting out for half-dome and then making the very wise decision to not be foolish and require rescue? Fantastic!
Pay absolutely no attention to any naysayers in your comments beyond the fact that you are the better person than they are.
Oh! And hey. I just read your bio here. Amy, Al.....Best of luck to you both in this new chapter in your lives. I hate to even imagine what the motivation is behind your decisions to so this but God Bless. I think most probably I've been through what you have.
Thank you for your kind words. We really appreciate it! This started out as a way to show our kids some of the trails, and it slowly morphed into the idea that we can share our experiences and learnings with others and have some fun doing it. The comments have been incredible...
I did HD when I was around 24 or so. I would say I was in good shape at the time, but I was a skinny guy, no big muscles at all, probably around your size. Never trained for it or did practice hikes. My two friends and I just did it all in one day and we got up to the top and down, but the cables were the worst part. We got stuck coming down and were on the cables for almost 90 minutes because someone got scared and blocked the way. Since you're basically climbing and rappelling, all the strength is coming from your arms to hold on and we were barely holding on towards the end.
I guess I'm glad I was able to accomplish it, but I will never do it again. what no one realizes is how steep the cables actually are and how stupid it is in reality, lol. There are so many other great hikes that give just as good, if not better, views that are way less dangerous. Kudos to you for knowing your limits
Thank you for sharing. Congratulations on making it to the top! Yep those cables are so steep! Of course I've seen pictures and videos, but it is so intimidating standing up close to it. The two sections with the missing boards really messed with me. I do hope to try again.
It takes just as much courage and good sense to turn around as it does to keep going to the top.
As many Mt Everest and K2 climbers say, my accomplishment to listen to the voice of reason to turn around was my summit. Good for you girl!
Yes, agree 100%! I don't know how many attempts it will take, but I am definitely planning on crossing it off of the list. My husband says someday I will add Everest to my list! Thank you for taking the time to comment.
@@FaberAdventuresI like this, my summit. If I was to do it again I'd take rock climbing gear and latch onto the cable. But I love clouds rest with a higher view and easier hike, that's my more likely hike.
@@naturemusic88 I have cloud's rest on the list too! Thank you for commenting.
I do get songs stuck in my head and often its: "And i would walk 500 miles and I would walk 500 mikes" The Proclaimers !such a catchy tune!
That's a good one too!
I’m so relieved you turned around! Your life is more important than a climb. You did great!!! My husband & did Half Dome 3 years ago ….i had to rest…my arms were also tired!!!
You did awesome 🎉🎉🎉
I agree 100%. It was just too much for me that day. I mainly was upset with myself because it was such great weather (even though it was hot), and I won a permit on the first try so I felt a little like I had wasted it. I learned so much for when I try again. Thank you so much for sharing!
No shame in that I wouldn't have the nerve to attempt it. My son and his partner are in Yosemite right now. Enjoyed the scenery thanks for posting.
I appreciate the comment, thank you!
My motto: “Better a live donkey than a dead lion.”
That's a fantastic motto - and we agree! Thanks for taking the time...
That is defeatist mentality.
Appreciate the engagement.
@@FaberAdventures no problem!
@@kastel5674 “Better a live donkey than a dead lion.” - Ernest Shackleton
Excellent video. Really enjoyed it.
Thank you! I genuinely appreciate you taking the time to comment...
You didn't fail at all. All too often we value achievements over the actual experiences themselves, but I'm sure that you were fully immersed in your beautiful--and sometimes frightening--surroundings. That is enough. I have so much respect for not only what you accomplished, but for your wisdom in turning around when you evaluated your situation and thought it best to not continue. It takes a lot of courage and humility to follow our "gut" and not be swayed by ego.
@@phillipmacdiarmid8496 Thank you for taking the time to post such a thoughtful reply! I agree with what you’re saying. It was a difficult choice for sure, but the right one!
My husband and I did half dome in July! The cables were very taxing and I remember reaching around the same point as you thinking maybe I dont have enough strength for this! We ultimately made it to the top but I did not have that nagging feeling of something feeling off. Trust your gut always! And I did actually have a song stuck in my head during this hike.... Steady as She goes by The Raconteurs haha. It was fitting for me. Part of the mist trail was closed when we went so our stats were 21 mi huge day!
I'm so happy you both made it to the top! I really let my fear take over on the cables, and I couldn't overcome it. Plus, at one point I think I looked off to the side and down to the view of the sheer drop. Then ahead of me were the two sections with the missing boards, ugh! 21 miles is a great hike! I went up the mist trail, but I came down the JMT because the crowds definitely increased by the waterfalls in the afternoon. Thank you for sharing!
The view from the top is almost worse anyway... you can't even see half dome from up there! Great video
I certainly appreciate that information! After I came down, I sat on the sub dome for almost an hour watching people go up and down, and I had to remind myself that where I was sitting had a great view too. Thank you for the kind words on the video!
Really nicely done. Big day in the wilderness, solo. Yours is the “how to do it” picture. Very very cool. Some other day, the summit will be there, and so will the experience from this trip. Great job!
Thank you! We appreciate you taking the time to comment. You're right. The summit will always be there when I am ready, and I will finish that climb!
My heart goes out to you. You are one courageous person! God bless you! As the poem goes "If at first you don't succeed, Try try try again! (Not Half Dome perhaps ☺)! Best!
Thanks so much for taking the time! I will definitely try again... :)
7:03 When I'm hiking through a forest, I never feel as though it's monotonous. At age 77, every such moment is precious and to be enjoyed fully.
Such a wonderful perspective... thank you for sharing. I do look forward to spending more time in the forests!
I climbed to the top when I was 28. It’s psychological… if you think you can do it, you can, if you freak out, you won’t!
I agree! I actually was feeling so good while I was hiking that I was going to be able to do it, and then on the cables I looked to the side and down (plus my alarm, ugh) and I let all of the fear move right in. At least now I know what to expect. Thank you for commenting!
The granite was scary slippery when I hiked it years ago and I don't think I'd attempt it again. Next time you're in the area give Clouds Rest, Mount Hoffmann, and/or Mount Dana a try. All incredibly rewarding whether looking down into Tenaya Canyon ascending the summit ridge of Clouds Rest or admiring the stunning view of Half Dome from Hoffman or on the summit of Dana where you have great views of the Lyell Glacier and Mono Lake. None of those hikes are easy, but they're not the 16 mile 5000 foot elevation gain slog that Half Dome is. Though you'd definitely want to do them later in the season as I saw a bunch of snow on Hoffmann on one of your shots.
This is a spectacular comment! Thank you for these recommendations! I am adding them to my list for the next time. I only had two days in Yosemite and Tioga Rd was closed at the time.
@@FaberAdventures I like those three hikes in August and later. If you do Clouds Rest from the Sunrise trailhead for instance it can require a wade through freezing cold water that could be up to neck deep if you do it when the road opens, but when I did it in late August that same outlet from Tenaya Lake was maybe a few inches deep. Also, in another comment I recommended three backcountry permits you could get to do Half Dome without having to do that slog up Vernal and Nevada Fall first the same day, and I forgot to mention Panorama Trail from Glacier Point would probably also be doable to work a Half Dome trip in after a good night's rest camping in Little Yosemite Valley. I personally wouldn't get too fixated on Half Dome though. It's a great hike for sure but Yosemite is filled to the brim with ridiculously awesome dayhikes and backpacks.
Also the high country is way cooler temperature wise. Last trip I went it was like 102 in the valley but it was very comfortable camping at Tuolumne Meadows the night before my backpacking permit started. Was maybe mid 70s at 6PM or so when I got up there.
@@homerthompson416 Thank you so much for all of this information. I actually would love to take my son on the Cloud's Rest hike and that tip about the water levels is huge. I felt so lucky to win the Half Dome permit but once I got to Yosemite, I realized how much time could easily be spent there. I know I barely scratched the surface, and I can't wait to bring my family there to experience it.
@@FaberAdventures I'll caution Clouds Rest's summit ridge can get only a few feet wide at parts, with a huge dropoff into Tenaya Canyon, though the summit itself is pretty spacious. So if your boy is comfortable with heights no problem whatsoever, but if he's not I think the dropoff to Tenaya Canyon might be kind of scary. Here's a good video showing what the summit ridge looks like at the narrowest part:
ruclips.net/user/shortsvjhHeCUoR7g
It's a walk up though, no climbing or bouldering or anything like that if you take the trail.
Also about a 14 mile roundtrip though thankfully you gain most of the altitude in some switchbacks pretty early in the trail and by the time you're at the summit ridge the views are so great you don't care.
Amazing. It is so hard to make a decision like this. You are very strong to do this.
Thank you for that feedback! As difficult as it was, I know it was the right choice. I'll be back... I appreciate you taking the time
@@FaberAdventures I believe I have the physical ability to do that hike, but what concerns me most is the number of people. It's also a long hike to get to the cables. My wife and I did a different hike in place of Half Dome, although she is very scared of heights. I'd suggest you take a look at Cloud's Rest, which starts outside of the valley. It is less crowded and arguably offers better views of the valley.
@@timsell6087 I was at the base of Half Dome just before 10am and there was really no one in front of me, and I had three people behind me. After I came down there was an influx of people just starting up and then a line was formed. The hike to the cables is 8 miles, but I actually thought it wasn't terrible (the hardest sections besides the cables were the beginning of the mist trail and the sub dome). Thank you for the Cloud's rest suggestion! I actually have that one on my list. My son has already told me he will never try Half Dome, but I think he would enjoy Cloud's Rest, though I have read the spine can be intense too.
@@timsell6087 Just to add...the cables are intense, and in some places, there are longer stretches where the wooden boards are missing which is what really gave me pause. Next time I will bring a harness and hopefully that will help my anxiety.
The Half Dome adventure is not just the last 400 feet! Hey I thought subdome was harder than the cables and you did that!! My favorite hike in the park is Clouds rest. It’s even more beautiful on the summit because you look down in half dome. You might like that one. Keep adventuring.
Thank you for sharing! I definitely have Clouds rest in my sights too.
This makes me a little sad because you tried so hard. Still you have nothing to be ashamed of. And it's still going to be there if you decide to try it again. Great effort!
Thank you - I appreciate your words!
Wow! What you did was pretty impressive! Good for you keeping yourself safe. Thanks for taking us along.
Thank you! I appreciate the comment.
I know the exact feeling you had, did the same thing you did a few years ago, made it (what felt like half way up the cables) then turned around…then the next year I did a half day hike to LYV then did the hike to half dome the next, a lot more relaxed and definitely worth it if you can try again!!
Thank you for sharing! That certainly gives me hope. A few people have mentioned camping at LYV, and I do remember seeing the campsite when I was hiking. My husband has agreed to try it with me next time, and I think camping might be the way to go.
Most people will never know how much courage and willpower it takes to day-hike Half Dome by yourself. It takes even more guts to solo hike Half Dome on your first try. It takes huge guts to post something you consider a failure of yours. Much respect! The biggest surprise in this video is how few people you encountered on the way to the sub-dome! Great video, and you’ll do it next time!
Thank you so much! That was a wonderful comment to read. I really appreciate your words!
KUDOS for trying!!!! you got further than i ever would! (i did my first and last rock scramble summit at Shenandoah a few weeks ago) lol
I appreciate your comment! Shenandoah is on the list.
Beautiful episode friend, trail looks gorgeous! 🥾
Thank you. Based on your content, you understand. I appreciate your feedback.
Nice try!
@@MrAdelrosario88 Thank you! I will be trying again.
@@FaberAdventures Have you considered backpacking so you could stay a night at Little Yosemite Valley and thus be fresh to do the cables without having worn yourself out gaining 4400 feet of elevation in the hours before reaching them? It's a tough permit to get though, as is any permit that can be reasonably worked into a Half Dome climb.
@@homerthompson416 Thank you for the suggestion! I didn't consider it for this last hike, but it's something I am considering for next time. I honestly would love to camp in Yosemite even if it doesn't include Half Dome. I really appreciate all of these tips!
Wear a harness and clip in or prussik. Itll be a lot less stressful.
Yep, that's the plan for next time. Any recommendations on brands? Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. As a new channel we appreciate the engagement.
@@FaberAdventuresDo a web search on "best via ferrata equipment." Expect to spend about $300. Practice with your equipment at home before heading to Half Dome so you are "fluent" with it.
Go with a companion if possible, someone who will encourage you, but not pressure you to continue if your gut feelings say "Turn around."
Other tips: On a long hike it's best to pace yourself so you aren't breathing hard. Take a 100% cotton boonie hat, soaking wet, in a ziplock and when you start getting hot, put it on and snug up the chin strap. Carry extra water to re-wet it as necessary. This is major protection against heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Forgetting to snack and drink? Not allowed. Mix medical-strength electrolyte powder into your water for drinking before, during, and after your hike. Eat a high-protein, high fat breakfast and include protein and fat in every snack.
I went to the top of Half Dome three times in the 1980's, wearing good hiking boots. These days, I'd wear hiking footwear to the bottom of the cables then switch to rock-climbing shoes with a good grip on rock.
You did the right thing, obeying your gut feeling that you should go back down. This is a success, not a failure! Gut feelings help us stay safe! To paraphrase one of the world's top mountain climbers, "Getting to the top is optional. Safely getting back down to your loved ones is not optional."
Best wishes for many wonderful adventures!
Glad you're still with us , good u tried 👍
Thank you! I appreciate the comment.
Great video of a difficult hike in a beautiful place
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for taking the time!
I could never do it and wouldn't even try. Im glad you are safe, and so are your family and friends.
Appreciate you taking the time!
@@FaberAdventures I think you are very brave to go as far as you did. I'm proud of you!
Thank you so much!
I am glad you turned back! thank god! Don't consider this as a failure but success to understand your limits. I am sure you will try and succeed another day! good luck on your new channel!
Thank you! I appreciate the kind words.
GIRL I THINK YOUR AWESOME AS WELL AS A BEAST FOR TRYING Y DID EXCELLENT ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you!! You are so kind.
@FaberAdventures NEVER GIVE UP I HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR LIFE IS PRECIOUS When I saw you climbing 1/2 Dome Inspiration to us all I truly mean that God Bless & YOU DID it on your own
@@annabelleleman4177 #warrior I appreciate you!
Great video!!
Thank you!
I know, hiking then climbing. I agree with other comments. you did your best. It was not a failure,just a learning experience.thanks for the video. Two thumbs up!
I appreciate you! Thank you for the additional comment!
I turned around a short way up the cables when I was 12. It was with the boy scouts.
I knew, that if I slipped, I was going either left or right down the slope to die.
Ps, clouds rest is easy and beautiful too!
Awesome that you did it at 12! At some point I looked to the right and down and that definitely heightened my anxiety. Appreciate the Cloud's rest tip, and the comment!
Not a fail at all! Husband and I tried to climb it long ago but the fear of heights got us at the beginning of the subdome! Same with Angels Landing - nope. You did great and showcased Yosemite's beauty.
Thank you! It is such a beautiful place! We were able to summit Angels Landing, but I had that moment and almost didn't. I fully understand!
My head hears so many different songs & voices (usually of people I know, living or not) when I’m grinding in the mountains. It never stops. You did really well for someone who lives at sea level!!!
PS: I’ve never been to Yosemite, and I feel like half dome is a lofty goal. You did great! I live in Wyoming, & the older I get, the better I was. I have had so many little character failures on mountains here, I have learned a great deal from failures and successes. You are sharing a personal growth experience which helps a lot of us. Good on ya!
Thank you so much for sharing! If I am not singing in my head than I have conversations with myself on long hikes. It passes the time in a way, but it's also therapeutic for me. I agree - the mountains are always teaching us new things about ourselves. I was very disappointed when I was there, but now that a little time has passed, I am looking forward to my next hike wherever that may be. I appreciate you commenting (twice)!
Good going….I think it takes a lot of guts to do it alone. I can imagine your hike back in the dark was pretty creepy too. The top is not a hike but an assisted climb. It seems like you were most of the way through the hard part. The middle section is very steep.. I did it last year with my fiancé both of us are former Army Airborne but I would not do it again without a harness. It is a dangerous climb. If you lose your grip…that’s all she wrote.
Thank you for taking the time! I agree with you, next time I will be adding a harness to the gear. I underestimated... won't make that mistake again.
Always next time you got it, don’t give up
Thank you! I appreciate that. Definitely hoping for next time now that I really know what to expect.
What a brutal hike that is - it's funny that when I'm on a long hike that "one foot in front of the other" song comes into my head every time.
Thank you for taking the time to share! The one from Santa Clause is Coming to Town? That's amazing!
@@FaberAdventures Yes! One of my favorite Christmas shows as a kid - that song automatically pops up in my head on those long hikes or jogs when I'm tired..
@@danlundgren262 Same!!
Out of shape 50 yr old woman here. That song popped into my head hiking up a trail at Tower Falls in YNP.
My couple of decades younger group left me behind even though I had started up before them. Altitude is no joke when hiking, I had to keep stopping to try to catch my breath, felt like I was on the verge of hyperventilating. One person finally came back and tried to push me to not stop but I know my body and didn't want to pass out. I never have passed out but have come close to it and recognize the signs of tunnel vision.
@@snmm1029 Hopefully Mickey Rooney's estate gets a royalty for us thinking of his song on our hikes!
You didn't fail. You gave it your best. Be proud of what you did.
Thank you! It certainly felt like a fail at the time, but now that I am home, I am grateful I was able to experience it.
Oh, I definitely agree with @CrabbyOldLady. A successful journey is being there to talk about it afterwards. Well done.
Thank you - I appreciate your comment!
You did accomplish quite a bit on that hike. I could tell you weren’t going to make it because of your breathing and the heat you experienced early on your hike. You definitely made the correct decision to come back down and live another day. That decision was your crown prize. In my prime I couldn’t have done what you accomplished. I would say you lived a thousand years on that day. A great memory to share with your family. Peace out from San Antonio, Texas.
This was a fansatic comment. Thank you for taking the time to engage with us. It was certainly a tough decision, but the right one.
You did really Great! The hike up there is the most beautiful scenery. Wow, the way you had the camera placed I felt like I was making the hike with you.😊
Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. The hike up to the cables is incredible. I was lucky to experience the waterfalls in full force. Thank you for taking the time.
Ive had similar experiences twice at angels landing in zion. I started the last section with the chains and decided that part wasnt for me. Still a great hike up to that point. Good job for how much you have done.
Thank you! I appreciate your sharing. I hated that the chains moved so easily on Angels Landing! Scout's Lookout is a beautiful view too.
Great video. I was feeling scared watching you and can't imagine how you were feeling in the moment. Great job you should be proud!
Thank you for commenting! I appreciate your kind words.
Thanks for the video! Nice job. I have my first date with Half Dome on September 24th and I can’t imagine trying it for the first time solo.
My pleasure and thank you for watching. Best of luck on your hike!
Yeah, knowing your limitations is a person that has wisdom. Glad you made it down ok. I know I couldn’t go up there no way no how.
Thank you! I sincerely appreciate the sentiment... It was a tough call, but I know it was the right one!
Keep on hiking, we love the videos!😊
Thank you!! This was awesome
14:46. That put in panic mode 💕💫
It was the undoing!
if u only made it 1/3 of the way up and started having trouble, good to turn around as it only gets steeper near the 3/4 mark. I only go during off season when there is no lottery and cables are down, it sounds worse but imo its much safer. almost everyone is attached to the cable and not many ppl so no rush.
That is good to know, thank you. I certainly admire people who can do it when the cables are down. Thank you for commenting!
The key difference is you are attached to the cable.
@@aliensoup2420 I originally thought it would be scarier to do it that way (through watching videos), but it’s actually probably safer because it’s less people and you are fully attached.
Good job young lady.
Thank you! We appreciate you taking the time...
The key is to wear a safety harness and carabiner to clip on to the cable. Then you don't have to depend entirely on your hand grip strength to keep you safe. Before I did the hike I had done weight training for 20 years, but my hands still fatigued from holding on to the cable. Everybody should wear a harness on the cables - even expert climbers, because even experts die on mountains, and everybody that fell from the cables did not wear a harness.
I appreciate you taking the time to comment! Next time I will definitely have a harness with the carabiner system. When I was researching before the hike most people said it wasn't necessary, but I think it would've been helpful for me. Live and learn...
That alarm, my god
I know, right? Horrible!
i climbed half dome in 84' when i was 11
Thank you for taking the time!
Yeah. Not many of us are 11 any more.
Beautiful day and beautiful views! Always wise to listen to your intuition and body. Great video!
Thank you for your comment! I appreciate your participation. It was such a beautiful day!
You’re a pro to know your limits.
Thank you for taking the time! It was a hard choice, but the right one....
Excellent photography
Thank you!
I hiked in 2017 n had to turn around, too. I started super early n turned around n went back to my campsite n then my sister called the next day telling me about a woman falling the same day I hiked it. I didn’t even know or hear anything about anything it. I am just glad I trusted my guts n gave up. Good u did too.
Thank you for sharing your own experience! You just never know... It was a difficult decision, but I know it was the right one! As you point out, sometimes you just have to trust the gut!! We appreciate you taking the time
@@FaberAdventures yes. It’s good to be alive to hike more crazy trails lol
Exactly!
Who would go that far in the first place. Always trust your instincts. Good for you…
Thank you for taking the time! I agree with you... instincts!!
I don’t think this was a fail at all, I think you were incredibly brave. I went up with my son a few years ago, and he had trouble with traction on his boots, so it really stressed him out. I’m not sure he would’ve continued if I wasn’t behind him as some kind of sense of security. And you still did 99.9% of the physical challenge required for the whole journey. And you were alone! And as others have said, you got to see some unbelievable views. So I hope you feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment. And thank you for posting this as an alternative to some of the other videos that try to make themselves look good by making it seem so easy for them. You gave a dose of reality, which was also very brave. So congratulations all around.
Thank you for this thoughtful comment! I was certainly upset with myself at the time, but it was the right decision for me to come back down. I loved the entire hike, but I agree with you people do not discuss the physical strength it takes to climb the cables. Hopefully I can get it next time. Thank you for taking the time!
Great photography and narration.
Thank you! I appreciate the comment.
Good job...always follow your gut! If you decide to try again, maybe consider spending a night in Little Yosemite, and then climbing Half Dome the next day when you're fresh....and be sure to have shoes with good treads. Well Done!
Thank you for these tips! Camping at LYV is on the list for the next attempt, and I am thinking about approach shoes for next time. My shoes were actually new with vibram soles and I still felt they were slipping in that last section I was on. I appreciate you commenting!
Very wise not to continue if you have doubts. I can't imagine anything worse than being stuck on those cables exhausted and gripped by fear. With my issues about heights, I wouldn't even attempt sub-dome.
Thank you for your comment. It was certainly challenging. You can't help but feel exposed when you are up there and tired.
Nice video. We just did it last saturday and we camp at Little Yosemite Valley. I was lucky, I got an invite for party of 4. My friends were so supportive, patient and helpful, since I'm afraid of heights in any ways but still love hiking. I like videos and photos but going up and down in the cables, I gave up those and just focus on my climbing, pray and pay attention what's around me. Hold the cables tight and focus my upper body strenght and made sure my feet/boots will grip the wall. I think what's my hardest battle and how I overcome it and apply it while climbing the cables, if I survive my hardest battle, I will survive the climbing the cables.
Hope you try again and bring friends so it's not so nervous.
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment. That must have been a wonderful trip for you and your friends... The fact that you were able to overcome your fear of heights is incredible! I have every intention of trying again!
Nothing is easier to get than free advice! But you made a courageous decision, and the right one. If making it to the top continues to inspire you, I have a couple of suggestions, because you do have the ability to climb it. First, work your upper body so you have more hand and arm strength. Second, camp in LYV and break the hike into 2 parts. This way you don’t have to do the cables after climbing 4K+ feet. Three, get approach shoes and consider clipping in to take away the fear of slipping. Fear is really a killer on HD. Lastly, on the cables, don’t look down, up, or side to side. The only thing you need to do is go one step at a time, which only requires you to focus on the next step. This keeps the fear thoughts down. If you don’t feel a pull anymore, go hike Cloud’s Rest!
I welcome all suggestions for the next time! I will definitely have some type of approach shoe and a harness for the next try. I had new trail runners with vibram soles, but the spot where I decided to go back down there were no boards and the granite felt so incredibly slippery there. While I was kind of stuck in that spot, I made the mistake of looking off to the side and down and the fear factor definitely went up a few decimals. I will certainly take the advice of just looking forward! The hike getting up to the cables was awesome and I was feeling really good, but those cables are a beast! Definitely going to work my arms more leading to the next one. Other people have mentioned camping at LYV, and I think I am going to give that a try. I would love to camp in Yosemite anyway. I would love to hike to Cloud's rest too. I'm going to need more time in Yosemite! My last trip was a whirlwind of only two days including the day I hiked to HD. I really appreciate you taking the time to help make my next attempt a better outcome.
This is the best half dome hike on RUclips! Don't go hike up a big slippery slide on cursed land!
Thank you! This is a huge compliment, and I really appreciate it!
Great job! Next time breath through your nose as you won’t get as tired.. keep up the amazing work!
Thank you for that suggestion! I was getting so nervous on the cables that I think I lost track of the things I do on a regular ascent. Definitely something I will focus on the next time. I appreciate you taking the time to comment.
I takes a lot of sense and courage to make wise decisions and you have a good head on your shoulders. The mountain will be there tomorrow and next year and 500 years, it’s not going anywhere. Only a small percentage of the world make it to the point you reached. It’s likely due to heights, anxiety and vertigo that this won’t ever be for me so I envy those that can make it up there sub dome and half dome. That’s not something anyone can do. Some people die pushing themselves or being careless. Don’t be hard on yourself because you can always go for it again and do even better.
I really appreciate this perspective. It is important to keep the scale of the achievement in focus. It's always hard to make decisions that run against something that we've wanted so badly. I always tell my son that the summit is not the sole objective, making it back to the car is. Sincere thanks for taking the time to put together this thoughtful comment.
That spot is actually a bit tricky, because of uneven surface, your left leg is straight while right is bent (like standing on stairs sideway) and this is one of the steepest and slippery parts. Here I actually had to pull myself with my arms to get through, also press my left foot to the side of that 'stair' rock in order to get more traction. If you pass this part you can do the rest for sure.
I really appreciate this insight! I remember at that spot really trying to analyze what I was supposed to do, and I just felt stuck. This is such good intel for next time. Thank you!
Did good but you needed to take more breaks and that alarm was your undoing. No hat too. Time of day makes a difference too. I did it easily in the morning after camping in LYV. It was a little tougher later in the day my second time after hiking from Sunrise Lakes and my arms were a bit tired from hiking poles. The afternoon climb was way more slippery as well from other peoples dirt on the rock.
You’ll get it next time. Stop midway if you need too.
Also, for going down- firemans grip facing down is so much more easy.
PSS- I think Angels landing requires alot more finesse and athletism
Right - that alarm, ugh! I'm hoping to maybe camp next time and break up the hike. I was on the cables around 10am but with the heat that day it was still brutally hot. The only part on Angels Landing that got me was the one very narrow section with drop offs on both sides. Otherwise, I kind of leaned into the rock and I was okay. Thank you for these tips and taking the time to comment!
@@FaberAdventures it’s a heck of a hike up from the Valley as it is so adding on Half Dome is a big ask! No foul
@@vistaww It was a great hike. Always next time.
I don’t think I could even l make it that far. Props to you from trying
Much appreciated... thank you for taking the time to comment. It means a lot!
Better to live another day. One fail on that can kill you. It was a smart move.
You were doing great. You should have just listened to your alarm and took that snack break....? I bet you could have made it on your second wind.
It was a lovely trek, those were some nice shots. I never did this because of all the congestion but those water falls are worth it alone.
That's a good call. I don't know honestly. My nerves were rattled at that point, and it started to get crowded right after I came down. The waterfalls were awesome. Thank you for taking the time.
Is there a reason why you don’t clip yourself?
When I was researching before the hike it seemed like the consensus was that clipping wasn't necessary, and that it would slow you and the line down. If I get the chance to try again, I am planning on bringing a harness and clipping.
@@FaberAdventures The consensus is mostly delusional fools. They believe it is safe because they didn't die. But everybody that has died were not being safe.
I'm curious, if you decide to go back does that mean everyone behind you has to go back down too? I could hear people behind you is why I was wondering.
No. No one is forced down behind her. They just have to be careful going around.
@@4Dangert do you know if you're allowed to clip onto the wire? Or is it freehanding only?
No, the people behind me each stood on a wooden board and then held one side of the cable as I passed down the other. To do it safely certainly requires coordination between the hikers. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Exactly!
Yes, you can. I saw two people who used a harness. That is going to be my plan the next time I attempt it.
bummed you turned around right before it gets easy again. If you decide to do it again don't go solo. Go with someone who has done it before.
Best of luck
Great advice, thank you. Thank you for taking the time to comment!
@@FaberAdventures You're welcome. If you are in socal. mt. baldy is a good training hike to do a couple of times before you go back.
@@garyconley69 Thanks for that suggestion.
Pffffft! Stay home and bake cookies. 😝
LOL! Unfortunately, that's just not me though!
Don’t put yourself down you did more than I would ever do on that hike
Thank you for taking the time to comment. We appreciate it!
You’re sorry we have to listen to your alarm? I’m sorry you don’t want to listen to your alarm.
Thank you for taking the time to comment. LOL. The people immediately behind me on the cables could hear my alarm, and I felt terrible. They were very understanding about it.
Respect even going up that far
Thank you for that, the support from these comments has been wonderful. I appreciate you.
Better than I could do I do not like heights
Thank you for commenting. My son is the same, so I understand.
You were half way, what happened? U should have passed yourself and take breaks, it’s a hard climb for sure
I know I know... heartbreaker. My foot slipped at one point - coupled with sheer exhaustion and the alarm... just had to make the call. Thank you for taking the time to comment! We truly appreciate the participation!