With over 700 miles of trails winding through Glacier National Park, it can be hard to choose what areas you want to explore. The good news? You can’t go wrong in Glacier. With towering peaks, glistening turquoise lakes, wonderful wildlife sightings, and the possibility to get up close to a glacier, your options are endless. In this guide, we hope to outline a range of options, from easy day hikes to full-day adventures.

If you you have the time and energy, we highly recommend taking a couple nights to explore some of the backcountry trails the park has to offer. For more information on backcountry travel, check out our Guide to Backpacking in Glacier National Park. As you begin planning your trip to Glacier, check out our additional CleverHiker resources:

• Guide to Backpacking in Glacier National Park
• CleverHiker Gear Guide
• 10 Things You Should Bring on Every Day Hike
• Essential Backcountry Skills

Getting Around – free Shuttle Service

A comprehensive system of shuttles makes transport to trails fairly easy during peak tourism season. Once you pay the national park entrance fee, you get free and unlimited access to the Park Shuttle System.

The shuttle operates as a hop-on hop-off two-way service along Going-to-the-Sun Road between the Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. The shuttle runs on the west side from the Apgar Visitor Center to Logan Pass every 15-30 minutes. On the east side the shuttle runs from Logan Pass to St. Mary’s Center. If you are planning on riding the full Going-to-the-Sun Road, you’ll have to switch shuttles at Logan Pass.

There’s room for 12 or 16 passengers on the smaller shuttles and 20+ on the larger ones. All seats are first come, first serve, and at times packed. If the shuttle is full, you’ll have to wait for the next one. There is also limited pack storage on the buses especially when every seat is full, so you’ll likely need to set your pack in an aisle or on your lap.

Also, plan to park your car at a shuttle hub parking lot instead of other locations where parking is limited. The east hub is St. Mary Visitor Center and the west hub is Apgar Visitor Center. Be aware that parking is competitive throughout the park, particularly at Logan Pass Visitor Center. During peak season, many parking lots are full by mid-morning.

Best Easy day hikes

Hidden Lake Overlook and Lake

• Mileage: 2.7 miles (overlook only) & 5.4 miles (overlook and lake)
• Trailhead: Logan Pass Visitor Center
• Elevation Gain: 540 ft. & 1325 ft.

Hidden Lake is one of the most iconic images of Glacier National Park and because of this, it’s also one of the most popular trails. You’ll start this hike from the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which is at the conjunction of the two shuttle systems. Heading out on a raised boardwalk, you begin hiking towards the Continental Divide and the hulking 8684-foot Bearhat Mountain on your way to the overlook. If you have it in you, we recommend continuing on to the shores of Hidden Lake, which will add 2.7 miles of hiking and an additional 770 feet of elevation loss and gain, but is totally worth it. Expect to see goats quite habituated to humans along this route, but please keep your distance and don’t feed them!

Avalanche Lake

• Mileage: 4.5 miles
• Trailhead: Trail of the Cedars
• Elevation Gain: 730 ft.

Located only 5.5 miles from Lake McDonald Lodge along the Going to the Sun Road, the flat, easy, and wheelchair accessible trail to Avalanche Lake is a great introduction to Glacier National Park. You’ll walk along raised boardwalks as you pass Avalanche Creek and the spectacular Avalanche Gorge on your way to the lake. This loop hike is one of the most popular in the park, so expect to be among crowds. Also, the parking lot is quite small so we highly recommend taking the free shuttle from the Lake McDonald Lodge.

best Moderate day hikes

Highline Trail Loop

• Mileage: 11.8 miles
• Starting Trailhead: Highline Trail Trailhead
• Ending Trailhead: The Loop Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 1,950 ft.

The Highline Trail is one of our favorite full-day hikes in the park. You’ll traverse the Continental Divide for a good portion of this hike, with spectacular views every step of the way. Just after you set off, you’ll hike on the exposed ledge trail high above the Going to the Sun Road on your way to the Garden Wall. All along the route, you’ll get a panorama of peaks to your west as you hug the wall. Around mile 7, you’ll hit the Garden Wall Trail junction, which offers a burly, but absolutely worthy 0.9 mile side trail that climbs steeply to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook (see photo below). Continue on and make a quick stop at the Granite Park Chalet before beginning your long descent down the Granite Park Trail (also known as the Loop Trail) on your way to trailhead and shuttle stop.

Firebrand Pass

• Mileage: 10.5 miles
• Trailhead: Lubec Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 1,956 ft.

This out-and-back hike takes in the east side of the Continental Divide in the Marias Pass area in the south end of the park. You’ll traverse through aspen forestland as you are rewarded with views of horizon-bound prairies and endless mountain peaks. It takes you through wildflower meadows (Yellow Columbine, Subalpine Spiraea, and Fireweed often still blooming into late September) and aspen groves and up into a stark, rocky landscape different from what is often seen throughout the park. But it’s the view at the pass that will blow you away. The trailhead is a little difficult to find: Look for mile marker Number 203 along Highway 2 on the southern border of Glacier Park. Park in the dirt pullout and cross the train tracks and head for the gate and trailhead sign.

Ptarmigan Tunnel

• Mileage: 10.7 miles
• Trailhead:Iceberg Lake Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft.

This hike is moderately strenuous and absolutely intriguing. The tunnel, built back in the 1930’s by the CCC for horses and mountain tours, is about 150 feet long and is a fascinating piece of Glacier history. This route will surely be crowded, but the trail should thin a bit after the Iceberg Lake junction, where you’ll continue straight to the Ptarmigan Tunnel. Along the route you’ll visit a spectacular lake and experience views out the backend of the tunnel you will never forget – we’ll just leave it at that. This trail is prime grizzly habitat and is often closed due to bear activity, so always check trail status at a ranger station in the park prior to heading out.

Siyeh Pass Loop

• Mileage: 10.4 miles
• Starting Trailhead: Siyeh Bend
• Ending Trailhead:Sunrift Gorge
• Elevation Gain: 2,280 ft.

One of the most spectacular and visually rewarding day hikes in Glacier, it begins in a dense spruce and fir forest. It then climbs to high alpine meadows, crosses rivers and creeks to views of Blackfoot, Jackson, Piegan, and Sexton glaciers, and finally to the bases of Matahpi Peak and Mount Siyeh. The final set of switchbacks takes you to knockout views, than heads down around the top of the rocky pass with views of Saint Mary’s Lake and the Baring Creek Valley, and finally terminates at Sunrift Gorge. Although it’s designated as a loop trail, it’s really a one-way trail that loops back to the start with a hop on the free shuttle.

Quartz Lake Loop

• Mileage: 12.8 miles
• Trailhead: Bowman Lake
• Elevation Gain: 2,378 ft.

This wonderful woodland hike in the in the North Fork Valley area of the park travels up and over one of two forested ridges (depending on which direction you go; Cerulean or Quartz ridge) then down into a basin that holds both Upper and Lower Quartz Lakes. It can be very buggy in early summer, but by September the bugs diminish quickly. Besides offering considerable solitude for a hike in Glacier, this trail is filled with birdsong and offers views of Vulture, Numa and Rainbow peaks. Keep an eye out for nesting loons on the lakes!

Grinnell Glacier

• Mileage: 10.3 Miles
• Trailhead:Grinnell Glacier Trailhead
• Elevation Gain: 1,819 ft.

This is a day hike with an ultimate reward -an incredible glacier at the end of the route. But the views along the way are just as jaw-dropping. As you climb up the flanks of Mt. Grinnell, the views down the valley and ahead of you continue to increase. Keep your eyes out for the tall cliffs of Angel Wing rising abruptly from the horizon as Grinnell Lake’s incredible emerald color comes into focus. Keep in mind that the trail is not completely accessible until late July most years, when the snow melts and the park opens higher portions of the trail.

Cracker Lake

• Mileage: 12.6 Miles
• Trailhead:Cracker Lake Trailhead (Many Glacier)
• Elevation Gain: 1,400 ft.

Famously known for its milky turquoise lake hugged by towering cliffs and a fascinating old mine site, the hike to Cracker Lake remains one of the most popular trails in the park. You’ll pass impressive waterfalls and dip in and out of the forest as you make your way towards the magnificent headwalls of Mt. Siyeh and Allen Mountain. The reward for your hard work is glorious Cracker Lake 6.3 miles in. The trail leading to the lake is prime grizzly habitat with its tall brush and plethora of berry bushes, so take adequate precautions and make a lot of noise. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to snag a backcountry permit and spend the night at the lake.

best Strenuous day hikes

Dawson-Pitamakin Loop (Two Medicine Area)

• Mileage: 19 miles
• Trailhead: North Shore/Pray Lake
• Elevation Gain: 2,935 ft.

Though many choose to do this loop as a backpacking trip, for those in good physical shape, this loop may be accessible as a day hike. You’ll be traveling around the massive Rising Wolf Mountain while passing stunning turquoise lakes and traversing exposed and wildly scenic trails. The loop hike is best traversed in a clockwise direction – first climbing to Dawson Pass and then over Pitamakin Pass. By doing it this way you’ll get the ascent completed in the morning, with the rest of your day being relatively easy and enjoyable. Of all the trails we hiked in Glacier, we saw the most wildlife on this loop.

Gunsight Pass Trail

• Mileage: 20 miles
• Beginning Trailhead: Jackson Glacier Overlook
• Ending Trailhead: Lake McDonald Lodge (Sperry Trail)
• Elevation Gain: 3,711 ft.

Because competition for backcountry permits along this route is fierce, some complete the Gunsight Pass Trail as a day hike – though it’s not for the faint of heart. Make sure you’re in good physical shape and know your limitations before attempting. Over the course of 20 miles, you’ll climb nearly 4,000 feet and descend nearly 6,000 ft. The trail begins with a descent into the Reynolds Creek Valley, then evens out as you traverse alongside St. Mary River. Eventually, you’ll begin a gradual climb uphill after a footbridge approaching Gunsight Lake. The climb to Gunsight pass is spectacular with stunning view of Lake Ellen Wilson awaiting you at the top. As you cross over the second and highest pass – Lincoln Pass – you’ll begin your long descent through the 2017 burn area, passing through the Sperry Chalet area as you head down to Lake McDonald.

Piegan Pass

• Mileage: 17.7 miles
• Beginning Trailhead: SunPoint
• Ending Trailhead:Many Glacier Hotel
• Elevation Gain: 3,506 ft.

Equally as exciting as the Highline Trail, but far less crowded, this trail is a great option for hikers looking for an epic sunrise to sunset hike. You begin the route with spectacular views over St. Mary’s Lake as you dip in and out of the forest. As you climb to the pass, the views begin to open up, providing jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The flora and fauna are the highlights of this trip, capturing the best that Glacier has to offer. There are options to shorten this route, like starting at other pullouts along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Also, if you complete this route as a one-way trip you’ll need to arrange transportation, such as the Glacier National Park Lodges Hiker’s Shuttle, as the free shuttle does not make a stop in the Many Glacier area.

What Gear Do I Need?

Whether you’re doing a short day hike to Avalanche Lake or tackling a full-day adventure on the Highline Trail, carrying the proper equipment is absolutely critical. When things go wrong, as they often do, this can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dire result. For first-timers and sage backcountry traveler alike, dialing in essential day hiking gear is an important part of any pre-trip preparations. Check out our post on 10 Things You Should Bring on Every Day Hike in order to ensure you have the gear for a safe and enjoyable trip.

More Information

We hope this guide helps you plan an awesome visit to one of our nation’s most spectacular national parks. You really can’t go wrong in Glacier, so pack a bag and hit the trails!

For more information as you begin planning your trip to Glacier, check out our additional CleverHiker resources:

• Guide to Backpacking in Glacier National Park
• CleverHiker Gear Guide
• 10 Things You Should Bring on Every Day Hike
• Essential Backcountry Skills

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links. This adds no cost to our readers and helps us keep our site up and running. Our reputation is our most important asset, which is why we only provide completely honest and unbiased recommendations.

Standing 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, Half Dome is without a doubt a US National Park icon. The route to the summit traverses some of the park’s most popular and spectacular hiking trails. It takes in its most famous waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada, passes beneath Liberty Cap and the face of Half Dome, and winds through an amazing forest of Sequoia trees. The most exhilarating part of the hike — hauling yourself up the cables to the summit of Half Dome — is a challenge you won’t soon forget. The ultimate reward for all your hard work is one of the best views in Yosemite Valley.

Make no mistake, this hike requires considerable effort — gaining over 5,000 feet of elevation in 8 miles is no easy feat. You’ll also need a lot of luck to snag one of the competitive hiking permits. But if the stars align and you’re physically prepared for the challenge, you’re in for one heck of an adventure.

Quick Specs

• Distance: 16.4 Miles roundtrip via Mist Trail
• Days Needed: 1-3 days – Most people complete as a long day hike
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 5,457 ft (1,663 m)
• Best Travel Time: June – October
• Permits: Required, more info below
• Difficulty: Very strenuous, more info below

Best time to Hike

The National Park Service installs the cables on Half Dome around Memorial Day (late May) if conditions permit and takes them down around the first week in October. As long as the cables are up, you have a permit, and the weather is safe, you can climb Half Dome. Check with Yosemite National Park for current conditions and firm dates. You can technically hike Half Dome when the cables are down (more on that below), however we don’t recommend it.

If you want to see the spectacular waterfalls in all their glory, you’ll want to hike Half Dome earlier in the season when water levels are high. Hiking in fall months will bring beautiful colors, snow free trails, and fewer bugs, but less spectacular waterfalls.

How to Get a Permit

A permit is required to hike Half Dome seven days a week once the cables are properly installed. Permits are awarded two ways: a preseason lottery with applications submitted during the month of March or a daily lottery during hiking season.

Preseason Lottery

With only 300 permits a day awarded (225 for day hikers and 75 for backpackers), snagging a Half Dome permit is very competitive. The application period is from March 1st to March 31st for all preseason lottery submissions. Permits cost $10 per application, regardless of the number of people listed on the application. To apply, visit the recreation.gov website. If you win a permit, you’ll be notified by email in mid-April. You have to two weeks to pay the $10 per person for the permit.

One person (called the team leader) can apply for up to six people for seven different dates. The team leader is only allowed to apply once per lottery. Don’t even try to apply multiple times, as all of your permit applications will be deleted from the lottery. The trip leader or the alternate person listed on the application must be present at the sub-dome when the permits are checked. Your permit is “use it, or lose it.” In other words, it’s non-transferable.

TIP: If you are looking for the highest likelihood that you’ll get a permit, check out these graphs, which show how popular different days are for permit applications. If you have the flexibility, avoid submitting for a permit for a Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

If you’re backpacking and want to camp in Little Yosemite Valley, you’ll need to request a Half Dome permit with your wilderness permit. For more information on backcountry and Half Dome permit process, visit Yosemite’s NPS page to help with the process.

Daily Lottery

If you were unable to snag a permit during the preseason lottery, you’re not completely out of luck. Another 50 permits are awarded on a daily basis, depending on cancellations and no-shows. You can apply online for these permits two days before your anticipated hiking date. Visit Recreation.gov to file your application for a daily permit.

If you have any questions, call 877-444-6777. For more information, visit the National Park Service website.

Difficulty

The route to the summit of Half Dome ascends 5,457 feet in 8.2 miles, which means it’s a constant climb the entire way. The trail, however, is well-maintained and easy to follow. If completed in a day, we rate this hike as very strenuous due to the mileage, elevation gain/loss, and the added obstacle of climbing the cables at the end. Do not underestimate this trail. Strong legs, decent upper body strength, and nerves of steel are all required for this hike, especially the cable-assisted climb section. We highly recommend training vigorously starting at least 3-4 weeks prior to hitting the trail.

If you plan to do this hike in one day, it will take between 10 to 12 hours to reach the summit of Half Dome and return to the trailhead. Check sunrise and sunset times before you hike. You’ll need to start around sunrise and set a non-negotiable turn-around time for your group. Many hikers set a firm 4 pm turnaround time in summer for reaching the top of Half Dome; that gives you about 5 hours of diminishing daylight to get back to the valley before nightfall. If you’re just hitting the subdome at 4 pm, it’s best to give it up or be prepared to return in the dark. Always pack a trusty headlamp, just in case. It weighs next to nothing and can be a life saver.

Trailhead and Parking

The hike starts on the Mist Trail, which is the same route you’d use for the traditional John Muir Trail. There is no parking at the Happy Isles trailhead. The closest parking lot is the Yosemite Valley Trailhead, located just past the Half Dome Village (formerly Curry Village) though this lot fills up quickly. From this lot, you’ll have to walk 1/2 mile to the Happy Isles Bridge to start the hike.

Another option for day hikers is to park at Half Dome Village (formerly Curry Village). From this parking lot, it is a 3/4 mile walk down a service road to the Happy Isles Bridge and the start of the hike.

You may see that the easiest access to Happy Isles is via the Valley Visitor Shuttle (7 am to 10 pm year-round) at Shuttle Stop #16. However, the shuttle doesn’t start until 7 am and if you’re planning on hiking Half Dome in a day, you should be on the trail before 7 am. If you’re planning on visiting Half Dome as part of a multi-day backpacking trip, the shuttle may be a good option as you won’t need to be on the trail as early.

CAMPGROUNDS

If you plan to car camp before or after your hike, the nearest campgrounds to the Mist Trailhead are Upper, Lower, and North Pines Campgrounds. Be sure to plan ahead and reserve well in advance because reservations are very difficult to get in summer. Camp 4 walk-in campground is very competitive and is also usually full. Best practice is to book your campground as soon as you get your permits approved in mid-April.

The nearest campgrounds outside Yosemite Valley that may have some first-come, first-served spaces are Bridalveil Creek Campground and Tamarack Flat Campgrounds.

the hike

The Mist Trail begins as a steep paved trail that steadily gains elevation. From the trailhead to the top of Vernal Falls is 1.5 miles.

Just past the Vernal Falls footbridge, there’s a potable water station. This is your last chance for purified drinking water on the hike so drink up and fill your bottles or bladder (we recommend carrying at least 2-3 liters from this point, maybe more on hot summer days). The trail takes a strenuous steady climb to the falls, following a slippery rock staircases up along the river. Expect to get misted as the trail makes its way to a fabulous view at the top of the falls.

Beyond Vernal Falls, the trail continues onward and upward for 2 miles to Nevada Falls, winding through a forest canopy and more rock and boulder “stairways to heaven.” At the top of Nevada Falls (4.3 miles in), the trail splits, heading left to Half Dome, or right for a half-mile round trip to an optional overlook. (If you take the Muir Trail on your return, you’ll pass this same viewpoint).

The trail then passes through Little Yosemite Valley and its campground, and begins to climb to the subdome with intermittent views through the trees of climbers on the cables and of the summit of Half Dome.

At 8,000 feet you reach the subdome. Once you crest it, the views get increasingly better, but each step and breathe gets a little harder. At this point, take a rest and secure your water bottles and any loose gear. Eat some food and hydrate.

The steel cables, placed at 45-50 degree angles, also come into focus and you get a sense of what you’re in for. Soon you’ll start up the slick rock (granite) route worn smooth by millions of boots, and begin the body-and mind-challenging grind to the top.

It’ll take between 20 and 40 minutes on the cables to get to the top of Half Dome, depending on the size of the crowd waiting and your upper body strength. Once you summit, your time will be limited only be the number of other people up there. No matter – it is a stunning, rewarding view unlike any other.

The Descent

It can take 45-50 minutes to get back down to the subdome, depending on the crowd and how many approaching climbers you have to maneuver around on the cables. Breathe. Be Chill. Take your time, take some photos and enjoy the view.

At the top of Nevada Falls, make a decision: The Mist Trail or the John Muir Trail. If you still have daylight, take the Muir trail and enjoy the falls and views of Liberty Cap. In either case, if you still have daylight, the going is fast back to the trailhead, though it can be tough on the knees. Once down, catch the free shuttle back to your car or head to a concession to celebrate!

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

Although most people begin and end their hike via the Mist Trail, there are some alternative routes that offer different viewpoints and difficulty levels.

• Return via John Muir Trail 16.5 miles total — The Muir Trail gives you a different view of Half Dome than you would see returning the way you came (Mist Trail) and provides scenic views of Nevada Falls. It’s a bit longer, but offers a less steep descent than the Mist Trail.
• Round trip via Glacier Point: 20 miles total — The hike from Glacier Point will be longer and more difficult, but the reward will be far less crowds and stunning views.

Half Dome Cables

The famous Half Dome cables have captivated hikers for decades. What should you expect? Two metal cable lines allow hikers to negotiate the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. The cables are usually erected in late May and removed in early October. The cables are placed several feet above the rock surface (about waist-high) with wooden planks about every 10 to 12 feet that reinforce the stanchions and provide some relief from rock worn smooth by millions of people having traversed it.

We highly recommend bringing gloves with good traction to make it easier to grab the cables and pull yourself along. If you already own the gear or can afford to rent it, it’s not a bad idea to use a climbing harness with a tether to a carabiner that can be clipped onto the cables as well. Also, the cables can get very congested by mid-day, making it much more time consuming and potentially dangerous as you have to navigate around other hikers moving in both directions. We highly recommend getting a very early start to avoid prime time congestion by mid-day.

If you’re afraid of heights or unprepared for the strenuous challenge of climbing the cables, we highly recommend not attempting this section of the hike. It will be very hard to turn around once you start hiking up the cables, and going down can be scarier than going up.

Although relatively few people have died traversing Half Dome over the past century, there’s definitely a risk for unprepared or careless hikers. Eight people have died falling from the cable section of Half Dome. Of those fatal falls, four occurred when the rock was wet. Three people have died from lightning strikes on top of Half Dome, so take stormy conditions very seriously. Recently, a couple died while taking a selfie on the summit too close to the edge of a big drop-off. Please take extreme care during all stages of this hike.

Can I Hike Half Dome When The Cables Are Down?

The short answer is yes, it is legal to hike Half Dome when the cables are down, but it’s at your own risk, and we don’t recommend it. You should consider this an option only if you’re a highly experienced climber/hiker.

When the cables are down, it means the stanchions (support poles) have been removed that hold the cables up at elbow/waist height. At this point, the cables are just lying on the granite slope. So instead of working along a fixed cable, you’ll need to pick it up and hike up it (with the possibility of other hikers pulling on the same cable). There are a couple of situations where this should most definitely be avoided: When the granite is wet, it’s too slippery to get any grip on the approach. Also if there’s a possibility of stormy weather or snow/ice on the route you should definitely not attempt to summit.

Wilderness permits are required during off-season too, although you won’t need a reservation from November through April. For this trip, you must get your permit from the permit station nearest the trailhead.

Do I Need A Harness?

Most people do not use a harness to climb Half Dome. That said, some do and it’s the optimal way to ensure safety (and peace of mind) while ascending and descending the cables. If heights make you nervous, we highly recommend wearing a harness or not attempting this section of the hike. If you decide to use safety equipment, we recommend a Via Ferrata Kit, which includes a harness, a Y-shaped lanyard, and carabiners to clip onto the cables. Most people do not wear a helmet to climb Half Dome.

BACKPACKING options

Although most people hike half dome as a long and strenuous day hike, there are options to make the route more manageable by spending 2-3 days on your approach and descent. Permits can be very competitive for backcountry campgrounds in the Yosemite Valley, but it you’re able to procure one, it can make your visit to Half Dome very enjoyable.

One option would be to hike 4.3 miles on the first day to an overnight staging camp at Little Yosemite Campground. The next day, hike 7 miles round trip to Half Dome and either return to the trailhead or camp at Little Yosemite for a second night. Then hike out on Day 3 hike via the Muir or Mist Trails.

Black Bears and Critters

Black bears are not uncommon in the Yosemite Valley. Your likelihood of seeing one along such a highly trafficked route is quite low, but not unheard of. If you encounter a black bear, make a lot of noise and attempt to scare it away. The black bears in Yosemite can be quite habituated to humans and are adept at obtaining food from hikers who have left food unattended or stored improperly. Never feed bears, or any other wildlife for that matter. A fed bear is a dead bear – bears often have to be put down once they learn to associate humans with food. So please, always keep your food in your backpack or within arms length. Follow the same guidelines for any critters you encounter in the park; never feed them. Bear Canisters are required for all overnight backcountry trips in Yosemite NP.

What Gear Do I Need?

Visiting Half Dome as a day hike is no walk in the park. It’s a very strenuous hike with high mileage and a lot of elevation gain. We recommend looking over this list of 10 Things You Should Bring on Every Day Hike prior to hitting the trail. Below we’ll highlight the most important gear that should be in your pack.

DAYPACK – A well-fitting and comfortable daypack is essential for carrying the gear you’ll need for Half Dome. Choose a pack large enough to carry essential gear with convenient storage compartments and easy access to water bottles or a hydration bladder. To learn more about the most important daypack considerations and to see our top backpack recommendations, check out our Best Hiking Daypacks List.

TRAIL SHOES – Make sure you have a good pair of trail runners or hiking boots with sticky outsoles and sufficient traction. This is very important because the granite at the top of Half Dome has been worn smooth from thousands of hikers before you. For our recommendations on hiking shoes, check out our Best Hiking Footwear post.

GLOVES – You will absolutely want to use a pair of gloves for hiking the cables on Half Dome. You’ll want to be able to firmly grip on the slippery cables and prevent your hands from being torn up. We recommend Nitrile Multi-Purpose Utility Work Gloves. At times, there will be a mixed pile of gloves at the base of Half Dome you can borrow, but you shouldn’t rely on this. If you bring gloves with you, please pack them out. The NPS regularly ends up hauling out lots of glove trash.

HEADLAMP– The best-laid plans may have you off the trail before dark, but you should always be prepared for the unexpected. Sometimes a hike will take longer than planned, and getting lost in the dark can quickly compound a bad situation. Always bring a reliable headlamp – it weighs next to nothing and can be a life saver.

SUN PROTECTION – Although the beginning of this hike is through shaded forest, the second half to subdome and Half Dome have high sun exposure and little to no shade. Sun protection is an incredibly important part of any hike, even when the weather is cloudy. Sunscreen, SPF lip balm, sunglasses (preferably polarized), a brimmed hat, and protective clothing should be considered essential on every hiking trip.

TREKKING POLES (optional) – Trekking poles can be very useful on some parts of this trail, but an annoyance/handicap on others. You won’t want to use them near the top of this climb for example, but there is a lot of elevation gain and loss on this hike, so trekking poles may be very beneficial for some hikers. If you like hiking with trekking poles, we recommend bringing a pair of collapsible poles like the Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles, which can be stored easily, allowing you to get them out of your way when you don’t need them. For a list of our top recommendations, check out our Best Trekking Poles list.

WATER – Perhaps the most important consideration on this hike, you’ll want to make sure you have a solid hydration plan. Treated water is available in summer at a drinking fountain at the Vernal Fall Footbridge (less than a mile from the trailhead). You’ll also be able to get water from the Merced River up to Little Yosemite Valley, but you’ll have to treat that water with a filter or purifier. After that point, there’s little chance of reliable water for the rest of the hike. We recommend filling up your water bottles or bladder in the Little Yosemite Valley and treating it with a lightweight water filter (her’s a list of our favorites). Weather conditions and personal preference will affect the amount of water you’ll need, but a good rule of thumb is to plan on at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of water per person per day.

FOOD AND SNACKS – When preparing for any day hike, you’ll want to make sure to bring along enough calories to sustain your energy for a long day of activity. We commonly bring several bars (Larabar, Clif Bar, ProBar, Luna, and Kind bars tend to be our favorites), dried fruits, nuts, and jerky while we hike. For a more substantial lunch, we like to pack tortillas or bagels and make sandwiches with hard meats (like salami) and cheeses (like parmesan). We recommend bringing a little more food than you think you’ll need, just to be certain you don’t go hungry. For more ideas, check out our Backpacking and Hiking Food Guide.

TOPOGRAPHICAL MAP & COMPASS Although the trails in Yosemite are well-marked, you should always hike with a topographical map and compass. We found the National Geographic Yosemite National Park map to be a great resource for this hike.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT – Read more below to determine if you want to use safety equipment for your ascent of Half Dome. If you opt to use climbing gear, we recommend a Via Ferrata Kit, which includes a harness, carabiner, y-shaped lanyard, and helmet. Most people do not wear a helmet to climb Half Dome, but that’s up to you.

Safety & TIPS

• Take it easy on the steel cables. Don’t rush, but keep moving to prevent traffic jams.
• Allow faster hikers to pass you (when possible).
• Always remain on the inside of the cables.
• Skip the final cable ascent if you have a fear of heights. It will make you a wreck with anxiety and a hindrance to other hikers. Once you’re on the cables, you have to be committed and confident, especially if there are crowds of people waiting to go up.
• If you’re nervous, but still confident you can complete Half Dome, you can wear a harness with a carabiner to clip into the cables. More information on that is above in the Half Dome Cables section and Safety Equipment section.
• Train for this hike with lots of miles of steep ascents and descents. Even people in peak physical shape will likely arrive at the subdome feeling exhausted. Keep in mind, you will also need upper body strength to navigate the cables to the top. Once you summit, you face a minimum of four more hours of hiking to return to the trailhead in Yosemite Valley, and they can be tough on the knees.

Do Not Attempt Half Dome If:

• Storm clouds are on the horizon or overhead. Three people have been struck and killed by lightning on Half Dome.
• It has been raining very recently. The cables and rock will be very slick and slippery. Most accidents on the cables occur during wet conditions.
• You are not in good physical shape. This is one of the most challenging hikes in the park, and for many it will be the hardest hike they’ve ever attempted. You will be climbing over 5,000 feet, and if you’re fatigued before you even reach the cables, it can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Train properly and know your own limitations before hitting the trail.
• The cables are down for the winter (unless you’re a very experienced all-season hiker or climber). It can be incredibly dangerous to attempt Half Dome when the cables are down, so we don’t recommend it. See notes above.

final thoughts

Hiking Half Dome is an absolute bucket lister for most hikers and it’s well worth the effort. The view from the top looking down into the Yosemite Valley is like no other; the ultimate reward for all your hard work. But do not underestimate what it will take to climb Half Dome. This is a strenuous and full day adventure, so make sure you’re prepared for it. Train properly, pack the right gear, and know what you’re in for. If you do that, you’ll earn one of our nation’s best vistas and create memories you won’t soon forget.

For more information as you plan your trip, check out these popular CleverHiker resources:

• CleverHiker Gear Guide
• 10 Things You Should Bring on Every Day Hike
• Essential Backcountry Skills
• CleverHiker Trip Guides

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may receive a modest commission if purchases are made through those links. This adds no cost to our readers and helps us keep our site up and running. Our reputation is our most important asset, which is why we only provide completely honest and unbiased recommendations.

If we had to choose one location to illustrate the immense beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the Lake O’Hara backcountry would be the place. Eighty kilometers of well-maintained trails wind through this breathtaking alpine wilderness filled with turquoise lakes, stunning meadows, and expansive views. The Lake O’Hara backcountry, located in Yoho National park, is restricted to public use, which makes permits very hard to obtain, but also allows for relative solitude in this truly breathtaking wilderness. It’s no wonder the lovely Parks Canada rangers who are stationed at Lake O’Hara regard this place with such reverence. It’s truly remarkable and should be on every hiker’s bucket list.

Getting There

The Lake O’Hara backcountry is located in Yoho National Park in British Columbia, which is 13 km west of Lake Louise. The most sought after way to access the Lake O’Hara backcountry is by bus, which you pick up from the Lake O’Hara Parking Lot, but the bus reservation process is highly competitive (more info below). If you’re unable to secure a spot on the bus, you can hike 11km in on the road and take a bus back in the afternoon, but that method is far from ideal. Reservations for the return bus are not required, but you’ll need to bring cash for the one-way fee ($10 as of 2018).

Planning your Trip & Reservations

The Lake O’Hara area can be explored through a day-use permit or you can spend the night (campsite/hut/lodge) and hike around the park multiple days. There is a quota permit system in place to help protect this fragile alpine area which limits the bus service to 42 visitors per day, including overnight guests.

Day-Use Reservations

If you want a day-use bus permit for Lake O’Hara, you’ll need to be ready the first day (maybe even the first hour) permits open for the season. For 2018, the reservation system opens on April 20th at 8 am MDT.Day-use bus permits generally sell out within a couple hours. You can obtain a reservation by telephone (Canada and USA: 1-877-737-3783 or International 1-519-826-5391) or online through the Parks Canada Reservation System.

Not able to get a day-use reservation?

If you’re unable to secure a day-use reservation, there are a couple options. First, you can show up at the bus staging area and check in with a Parks Canada employee to be put on a wait list. If this option is unsuccessful, you can walk in along the 11 km access road. The route is not terribly grueling, nor is it scenic, it’s merely a way to get to the Lake O’Hara backcountry. If you are walking in, be sure to calculate this mileage into your day as you may not be able to cover as much trail. The good news is that you can take the outgoing bus without a reservation. 

Camping or Lodge/Hut Reservations 

Our recommended way to experience this truly breathtaking area is to spend multiple days exploring the trails. There are four overnight options, each with a different reservation system.  

1. Camp at the Lake O’Hara Campground

The campground at Lake O’Hara has 30 sites available. In order to obtain a camping reservation, you need to call the reservation system (1-250-343-6433) exactly three months before your anticipated date, beginning April 2nd for the 2018 season. Reservations are usually fully booked within a couple hours of opening. If you obtain a camping reservation, you are guaranteed a reserved spot on an ingoing bus.

You can book a maximum of three nights camping. When making your reservation, you are able to reserve up to two campsites with only one tent allowed at each site. More information regarding campground amenities can be found here.

2. Stay at the Lake O’Hara Lodge

The most luxurious option for spending the night in the Lake O’Hara region is the lodge, which offers rooms in their main building as well as lakeshore cabins. It’s far from cheap, but you’ll be wined and dined in luxury. They also offer guided hikes around the region. Lake O’Hara Lodge runs its own shuttle service into the backcountry, which is included in your room rate.

3. Stay at the Elizabeth Parker Hut

This backcountry hut is one of the most accessible and popular in Yoho, located in a beautiful meadow about 500 meters from Lake O’Hara. This rustic accommodation sleeps 24 in the summer. They provide sleeping pads, however you must bring your own sleeping bag. Reservations are highly competitive and must be made through a lottery system starting in October for the following summer. A reservation at the Elizabeth Parker Hut will include a reserved spot on an ingoing bus.

4. Stay at the Abbot Pass Hut (advanced hikers only)

A stay at this historic stone hut (2nd highest permanent structure in Canada!) is a memorable experience, however should only be attempted by experienced hikers. To get there follow the trail to Lake Oesa and then climb 1,500 feet of difficult scree fields up a gully to the hut. According to Parks Canada, to attempt this route requires appropriate knowledge, equipment and safety precautions. Helmets are mandatory. To reserve a spot at the Abbot Pass Hut, which sleeps 24, you can make a reservation here. Because of the challenging route to the hut, it is not nearly as competitive to reserve as the Elizabeth Parker Hut. Similar to lodging options above, your reservation will include a reserved spot on an ingoing bus.

Bus Information

The ingoing bus staging area is near the parking lot under a small pavilion. There will be a Parks Canada employee who will check you in and answer any questions you may have. Arrive at the bus staging area 15-20 minutes before your anticipated departure time. When you get on the bus, you will be given a small green chip, which will be used as your outgoing bus ticket.

The outgoing bus staging area is in front of Le Relais Day Use Shelter. Again, arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your departure time. If you walked in, you will need to pay a one-way fee ($10 as of 2018) to get an outgoing bus. If you took the bus in, you will present your green chip to get on the bus.

To find the most up-to-date bus times and info, please visit the Parks Canada site. 

Possible Hiking Routes

The Parks Canada website has in-depth route descriptions for all the trails in the Lake O’Hara backcountry. Beyond the regular trail system, there are also five alpine routes in the Lake O’Hara area: Wiwaxy Gap, Huber Ledges, Yukness Ledges, All Soul’s Prospect, and the Odaray Grandview. These routes are for hikers who are experienced with mild route finding, comfortable with heights and are able to navigate exposed terrain. If you are looking for trails that are less strenuous than the alpine routes, there are over 80 km to choose from, offering a range of difficulty and length. Above is a map provided by Parks Canada to get a better idea of the trail system. 

Alpine Circuit

• Length: 11.7 km (7.3 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 1051 meters (3,448 feet)

• Estimated Time: 5-8 hours

Description: If you only have one day and are up to the challenge, the alpine circuit is the gem of the Lake O’Hara region. This spectacularly scenic loop covers a lot of ground and traverses the exposed, but incredible Huber and Yukness Ledges. Along the way you will pass a handful of small scenic lakes and streams, visit Lake Oesa and the Opabin Plateau, and climb to the viewpoint from the Wiwaxy Gap. The scenery is ever-changing and stunning from every angle. 

*The Huber and Yukness Ledges have some areas that are steep and exposed. Those with a fear of heights may not enjoy these portions, though we feel the route is safe if you watch your step. The entire alpine route is well-marked with blue and yellow blazes.

Odaray Highline to Odaray Grandview

• Length: 2.4 km (1.5 miles) out and back from the McArthur Pass Trail junction

• Elevation Gain: 90 meters (300 feet)

• Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

Description: This hike offers one of the most expansive views in the park, giving you the widespread vantage point of Lake O’Hara and impressive Lake McArthur. It’s a steep scramble to the top, but well worth it for the view. In order to hike this portion of trail, you will need to arrive at the junction with the Odaray Highline from the Lake McArthur trail before the daily limit of groups has been reached. There is a voluntary program in place which restricts this area to two groups per day in order to protect an important wildlife corridor. Please respect this policy.

Lake Oesa Trail

• Length: 6.4 km (4 miles) out and back

• Elevation Gain: 240 meters (800 feet)

• Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

Description: If you are only completing one trail and don’t have the time or stamina to do the Alpine Circuit, we recommend the Lake Oesa Trail. This trail traverses scree slopes, rocky outcrops and delicate meadows as it ascends to gorgeous Lake Oesa. You can retrace your steps back to Lake O’Hara or you could make a loop through the Huber Ledges to the Opabin Plateau, if you have the time and are comfortable with mild exposure.

Opabin Plateau Circuit

• Length: 5.9 km (3.7 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 250 metres (820 feet)

• Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

Description: The Opabin Plateau is a truly stunning area that is not to be missed in the Lake O’Hara region. You can complete a lollipop loop with both the West and East Opabin Trails once you climb the talus slopes past Mary Lake. The Opabin Plateau Circuit climbs into a beautiful meadow filled with milky aqua streams and lakes along a grassy, rolling terrain. Opabin Lake is a beautiful alpine lake nestled on all sides by commanding mountains and glaciers. On your way out, don’t miss a side trail that leads to the Opabin Prospect for the quintessential photo opportunity of Mary Lake and Lake O’Hara.

Lake O’Hara Shoreline Trail

• Length: 2.8 km (1.7 miles)

• Elevation Gain: minimal ups and downs

• Estimated Time: 1-2 hours

Description: This hike is a beautiful and easy stroll around pristine Lake O’Hara. On this loop you’ll also pass lovely Seven Veil Falls. This straightforward option may be a good choice for those with little time or those looking for an easier hike.

McArthur Pass and Lake McArthur trails

• Length : 8 km (5 miles)

• Elevation Gain : 310 meters (1,000 feet)

• Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

Description: This trail to the large, jewel blue McArthur Lake is tucked away in its own valley and is a beauty to behold. You can make a minor loop hike by hiking up the west branch and returning via the east branch. You’ll also hike past the small, but charming Shaffer Lake along the way. If you get the chance to hike the Odaray Highline, it’s easy to combine these two routes into a day hike.

Linda Lake Circuit and Morning Glory Lakes

• Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 140 metres (460 feet)

• Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

Description: This pleasant and relatively easy hike will bring you to several beautiful backcountry lakes. You’ll pass the Elizabeth Parker hut along the way as you travel through meadows and forest. This is a great option if you have several days in the backcountry and want to explore a less-visited and more secluded area of Lake O’Hara. 

What Do I Need To Pack?

Most people access the Lake O’Hara backcountry via bus and set up a base camp. Although you won’t have to hike all your gear in, you still want to pack as if you’re backpacking, with maybe a few extra luxury items.

Parks Canada has a few equipment restrictions in place:

1. Baggage is restricted to two small bags per person (max weight: 25 kg / 55 lbs; max length 97 cm / 38”)

2. Hard sided food coolers, storage bins, plastic bags, and loose items are not permitted on the bus. Please leave musical instruments, electronics, chairs and hammocks behind.

3. Be sure to bring a backpacking stove for cooking. The wood stoves and fire pits are best used for heat.

DAY HIKING GEAR CHECKLIST

DAYPACK – We love the lightweight Osprey Talon 22 and REI Flash 22 daypacks. They’re very comfortable and just about the perfect size for a long day hike.

SHOES OR BOOTS – We almost always prefer trail runners when hiking. We wore Saucony Peregrine 7 trail runners, which come in both male and female versions, and they were great. If you prefer boots, make sure they’re lightweight and break them in really well before you set off on the trail. Here’s why we prefer hiking in trail running shoes: 5 Reasons to Ditch Your Hiking Boots.

WATER PURIFIER – If you are staying at the campground, there will be treated water provided for you. However, while you are out hiking you will want to ensure you have plenty or water or a lightweight purifier to fill up your bottles. We recommend carrying two 1L plastic water bottles per person. We love using the SteriPEN Ultra in clear water and would highly recommend it. It’s fast, easy, and effective.

BEAR SPRAY – Lake O’Hara is home to a healthy grizzly and black bear population. You should always hike with bear spray and know how to use it properly. We recommend reading Parks Canada in-depth information on Bears and People as you prepare for your trip. 

FOOD – You’ll want to pack snacks for the day, as well as an adequate lunch. For some suggestions on food to pack for backpacking and hiking, check out our video on Backpacking Food. 

CLOTHING

Here are some of our favorite hiking/backpacking clothing items from our Top Gear list. 

• 1 Rain jacket shell – Patagonia M10 / Rab Kinetic Plus

• 1 Pair rain pants – Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic

• 1 Down jacket – Patagonia Ultralight Down Hoody

• 1 Fleece jacket – Extra warmth under your down jacket that will be warmer when damp and better to hike in.

• 1 Pair hiking pants/running tights

• 1 Pair hiking shorts – Nike dri fit running shorts

• 1-2 Hiking t-shirts – Nike dri fit t-shirts

• 1 Long-sleeve shirt – Nike dri fit quarter zip

• 1-3 Pair underwear – ExOfficio boxer briefs or or ExOfficio women’s briefs

• 2-3 Pair socks (add thin sock liners if using boots) – Balega running socks for warm weather & SmartWool mountaineer socks for snow.

• 1 Pair long john bottoms – long john top optional for nighttime use.

• 1 Warm hat

• 1 Sun hat

• 1 Pair gloves or mittens

MAP, COMPASS & GUIDEBOOK – We used this Lake Louise and Yoho Map, which provided great descriptions of trails and milage. There is also a specific map to the Lake O’Hara area. We always hike with a compass too, though the trails were easy to follow and we didn’t end up needing it. We also used the Lonely Planet guidebook to help us plan out our entire trip in the Canadian Rockies and found it very helpful.

FIRST AID KIT – Always bring a small personalized first aid kit. We used the .5 Ultralight Kit and added extras, like painkillers and personal medications.

SUN PROTECTION – Sunglasses (polarized recommended), sunscreen, and spf lip balm are an absolute must.

POCKET KNIFE – We brought along a small Swiss Army Knife which came in handy here and there. This should be considered optional, but we like to hike with one.

PACK COVER – We don’t hike with pack covers because they don’t provide full rain protection. We use a combination of waterproof stuff sacks and a sturdy trash bag liner inside our packs. That gives us 100% rain protection, even in a downpour. Ziploc bags also come in handy.

OTHER ITEMS:

• SMALL TOWEL – the Nano pack towel is great.

• CASH and ID

• PERMITS

• PERSONAL TOILETRIES

• HAND SANITIZER – Always apply after using a bathroom and before eating.

• WET WIPES – These are useful for cleaning up after hiking.

• INSECT REPELLANT – At higher elevations insects aren’t a problem at all. For lower elevations, 30% DEET will do the trick. In fall we didn’t use any.

• CAMERA – The Sony RX100 is our go-to camera for backpacking.

ADDITIONAL GEAR FOR CAMPING

BACKPACK: We used the HMG 2400 Southwest and GG Gorilla backpacks on this trek. Both are lightweight, convenient, comfortable, and make our list of the best lightweight backpacking packs. 

SLEEPING BAG – We used the Feathered Friends Egret UL 20 Sleeping Bag and REI Magma 10 sleeping bags. Both are lightweight and incredibly warm. Here’s a list of some of our other favorite lightweight sleeping bags.

SLEEPING PAD -We recommend a lightweight sleeping pad like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite to keep you warm and ensure a good night’s rest. Here’s a list of our favorite sleeping pads. 

TENT – We always hike with a durable, but lightweight tent. Here are some of our favorite tents of the year.

COOKING SYSTEM – We love the JetBoil MiniMo as a backcountry stove that’s easy to use and compact. We also like compact canister stoves like the MSR Pocket Rocket.

HEADLAMP – A small headlamp like the Petzl Actik will be useful for late night bathroom visits.

Do Your Part: Protect and Preserve

The Lake O’Hara alpine environment is an incredibly fragile and sensitive environment. Please do your part to help protect and preserve this incredibly special place. Parks Canada asks that you strongly follow these guidelines

• Respect wildlife – Do not feed or approach wildlife, and please carry bear spray. Read the Bears and People brochure for more information about bear safety.

• Leave no trace – Be sure to pack out all garbage including food waste, diapers, tampons, sanitary napkins and toilet paper.

• Stay on the trails – This helps minimize trail braiding, trampling and erosion.

• Let it be – Please leave natural and historical objects in their natural setting for others to discover and enjoy.

• Respect warnings, closures and seasonal restrictions. Research has identified important grizzly bear habitat and a regional wildlife corridor in the area

• Be safe – As always, your safety is your responsibility.

Lake O’Hara Slideshow

More Information

We hope this guide helps you plan a fun adventure into breathtaking Lake O’Hara area. As always, please leave us a comment below if you have any recommendations, questions, or suggestions.

For more popular CleverHiker content, check out the following links:

• CleverHiker Gear Guide

• CleverHiker Top Gear Picks

• Essential Trail Skills Videos

• Lightweight Gear Foundations Videos

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links. This adds no cost to our readers and helps us keep our site up and running. Our reputation is our most important asset, which is why we only provide completely honest and unbiased recommendations.