One Best Hike: Yosemite's Half Dome, 2nd Edition

Rick Deutsch

This is the only complete guide for hiking to the top of Half Dome - the signature landmark of Yosemite National Park, CA. It provides a history of the original Indian inhabitants of the area. The unique geological formations are explained. The focus of the book is to provide information on safe hiking practices to complete this extremely strenuous hike of 16-miles round trip that is climaxed by a harrowing 425 foot vertical ascent to the top of the 8,842 foot high granite monolith with the aid of a pair or steel cable banisters set at a 45 degrees incline. Sections with descriptions of 16 points of interest include waterfalls, historical areas, flora and fauna, drinking water sources and the actual cables provide readers with the information to safely prepare for and complete this national park adventure. Readers are given specific information on the gear needed including boots/foot care, use of hiking poles and water filter, clothing selection and food suggestions. Historical vignettes add to the understanding of Yosemite, making it a fun read for non-hikers as well. The author has completed this hike over 30 times and is a recognized expert source of information about the hike.

195 pages, softcover, photographs throughout, second edition published March 2012