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October, 2024

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Yosemite (Half Dome and Whorl/Matterhorn)

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PagesHouse
Posts: 6024 - Karma: 104
Heading to Yosemite Sept 11-18 for the first time and we are looking to make some big hikes/climbs. We're 100% doing Half Dome (overnighting at Sunrise in an attempt to beat the crowds the next day) and are considering doing the Whorl Mt > Matterhorn peak climb.

I guess I'm just looking for anyone who has done either and has suggestions or special places the unfamiliar tourist would miss and are worth seeing.

Aside from that, any other must-see/must-do hikes/climbs/activities in or around the park that are not usually swamped by tourists?

Thanks in advance to any and all information!!!
Jul 18 2012 8:46PM
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Fun_dip
Posts: 2623 - Karma: 913
I went up last year for a couple days in the summer, probably late August. We hiked to Chilnawalla(I don't know how to spell it) Falls and it's nice because there is some overspray from the falls that gets you wet and keeps you cool. When I was there the crowds were absolutely ridiculous and to drive in/out of the valley would take so long. We stayed over in Wawona over near the Redwood forest, which is nice and there is also a small falls you can hike in Wawona(again I don't know the name) that is very lowkey. Also, bring your own food or buy it at a market just before you enter Yosemite National(?) Park. Again, I'm not too familiar with the Valley(which I'm fairly certain is where you begin hiking), but the only market I knew of had a shit selection and cost at least double.

Also, are you camping out every night?
Aug 5 2012 5:40PM
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taylornicky
Posts: 2889 - Karma: 2,579
I climbed half dome two summers ago, and it was incredible. I really don't have much to add other than I strongly suggest you do it. Have a great time, and bring sunscreen.
Aug 6 2012 2:36AM
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JKravitz
Posts: 267 - Karma: 606
Hike to Eagle Peak which is on the way to El Cap but in my opinion has a better view then El Cap. You can also stop at yosemite falls on your way up which have an awesome exposed walk down to the side of the falls. Definitely worth the hike although it is a little rough on the way up
Sep 5 2012 3:13PM
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PagesHouse
Posts: 6024 - Karma: 104
I forgot I made this thread/haven't been on NS in months, but we did it and ended up scratching Matterhorn and turning Half Dome into a 4 day backpack trip incorporating cathedral peak, sunrise lakes, clouds rest, and of course half dome... and yes camped every night.
Oct 2 2012 6:00PM
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