Half Dome

The shoulder of Half Dome, and in the middle where the trees are, "The Stairs".

Approaching "The Stairs"

The Hike to Climb Half Dome

Beyond the junction and another 1.5 mile complimented by a 1000 foot gain, you reach a nice shaded flat area (end of the line for horses) with a fence and a bench. The views have finally opened up, and you can walk over to some excellent viewpoints overlooking Tenaya Canyon.

Tenaya Canyon with Clouds Rest on the right. John Muir was probably the first white man to explore the length of Tenaya Canyon. Native Americans were probably regular visitors. Looking from "The Stairs".

The last 3/4 miles have been along the rim of Tenaya Canyon with some really nice viewpoints. The forest has fortunately thinned a bit to help the views, but also allows the sun to beat down on you if it has been a hot day. Rest a bit in the shade of the little park with a fence: use the bench. You can use the rest. The next part is going to be a bear.