More pics of an epic hike

Here's some more pictures from the hike to Half Dome.  You start on the Mist Trail and pass two waterfalls, Vernal and Nevada.  Well, pass is an easy way to say it.  It's a pretty steep ascent, up carved in steps, that can get slippery depending on how much water is flowing and how much wind is blowing it around, hence the name Mist Trail.  This is at the early stage of the hike after some normal inclined switchbacks.  It's a proper workout, and for a lot of people, plenty of hiking on the day.  I was feeling fresh, with a full backpack of food, water and tent, and somehow cruised up, passing people with the scent of a summit to keep me going.

Hiking some steep steps up to Vernal Falls, on the way to Half Dome

Nevada Falls from below.

After the two falls, you are way higher up, and have a level mile of hiking with good views of Half Dome through the trees. Then solid forested switchbacks start and take a while before coming to the last bit before the cables.  Here, you are again on carved in steps, that are just as steep as before, except you've now hiked over 7 miles.  The views of the surrounding mountains start to get amazing here, a little taster of what you will see on top of the Dome.

Working my way up more steep granite stairs to get to the base of Half Dome's peak, where the cables are

View from the last switchbacks before the cables

Some epic scenery all around above the trees

That classic post hike shot of the feet, 13+ miles on the day, and plenty filthy

The river by my campsite, perfect to wash off a sweaty body that made it to the top of Half Dome in 4 hours

That water was so amazing.  Not as icy cold as fresh snow melt in the springtime, but still refreshing as hell to get the sweat and dirt off.  Some nice rocks to lie out on and snooze.  Also, mighty tasty, as this is the water source once you're up in the wilderness.  You need to treat it, but, cold, refreshing water after a great hike is always a win.