Hike to Basket Dome

Yosemite Valley, California

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Details

Distance

9.45 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Bryan McClain

Long hike exiting Yosemite Valley. Some of the best views in the park. Full views of Half Dome (and the climbers scaling it!). Great in the summer and the winter.

Getting There

Starting in Yosemite Valley, head to the Snow Creek trailhead just past Muir Meadows. Start the hike early in the morning, since it gets pretty hot in the summer and the last part of the hike is in the sun.

The Trail

You'll hike more than 140 switchbacks to reach the top of Basket Dome and get epic views of Half Dome. There are plenty of spots to camp, but if you're with more than two or three people, look for a larger site away from the exposed rock in the tree-covered area. The camp sites on the exposed rock are pretty small and can only accommodate a small group.

Make sure you bring a camera and get up early to watch the sunrise light up Half Dome!

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Features

Swimming

Backpacking

Hiking

Scenic

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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