Summer Adventure: Hiking in Yosemite

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Hiking in Yosemite National Park with RIGZ (CA, USA)

Yosemite National Park in California is one of the most famous national parks in the United States, and Half Dome is likely one of the most recognized spots in the park! Some friends of ours took a trip over to Yosemite so they could give hiking up Half Dome a try.

A trail sign at the beginning of the trail to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park with a RIGZ Gear hat.

As part of their gear, our friends took along some of our RIGZ hats to protect their faces from the sun while they made the intense hike up Half Dome. Remember, our RIGZ hats are well-made and come in a variety of color combinations to match your style.

Hiking up Half Dome

The hike up Half Dome in Yosemite is not for the faint hearted. Half Dome towers nearly 5000ft above the base of Yosemite Valley so you're looking at a long and intense day of hiking if you attempt it! For much of the year this hike requires a permit because of how difficult it is and because it's quite steep at the top.

A beautiful view of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park (RIGZ Gear).

Challenges of Half Dome

If you attempt this hike then make sure you're familiar with what you're getting into. Here are a few things to consider when thinking of hiking Half Dome:

Half Dome Permits

Permits are required for much of the year during the warmer months. Just getting a permit can be tough since it's a very popular hike and it's somewhat limited capacity. Your best bet at getting permits is to apply as soon as permits become available and hope for the best. Permits can be obtained through the National Park Service website.

Gear for the Hike

Make sure you have the right gear and have adequate food and water. You'll want to have good hiking boots, moisture wicking clothing, and gloves (since you'll be dealing with cables and rock faces).

You'll also want to make sure to protect your face and neck from the sun since you'll be on exposed rock faces toward the end. Our RIGZ hats and RIGZ neck gaiters are great options for a hike like Half Dome.

Protect your face from the sun with a RIGZ hat, which comes in three color combinations.

You can get more details from the National Park Service website on recommended amounts of food, water, and best practices when preparing for the Half Dome hike.

Preparation: Mental and Physical

• Half Dome is a relatively long hike (about 15 miles) with a substantial amount of elevation gain (4800 ft).

• The NPS website states that many people take 10 hours so you'll want to leave early in the morning.

• If you're not feeling well or haven't been exercising regularly then this hike might not be the best option for you.

• Also, the views are beautiful but you will be high up so if you're afraid of heights then you should consider whether you will enjoy this type of hike.

• If you're only used to living in very low elevations then the altitude of Half Dome (nearly 9000ft) could come into play, particularly if you're prone to altitude sickness.

Protect your skin from the wind and sun with a RIGZ neck gaiter, which comes in many different pattern options.

• Finally, there are very steep portions where you will likely be using cables so bring gloves.

Overall, the Half Dome hike in Yosemite National park is a great option for those who are looking for a challenge and an adventure. Be safe and have fun!