Half-Dome, Yosemite

After a short night that ended at 3:30, we set off for Half-Dome Village in Yosemite Valley. From there we started our hike.

Unfortunately, we only found out after about half of the ascent that you need to obtain a hiking permit or reservation in advance to reach the summit.

For us, it's completely crazy that you need permission for a mountain summit. But it seems to be due to the large number of visitors.

So, we could only go up until the narrow staircase-like path to the summit. It was a bit frustrating, but we still had a great hike with a fantastic view.

On the way back to the valley, we cooled off in a mountain stream.

Completely exhausted, we then made the 2.5 hour drive back to Mammoth Lakes.