Half Dome
Half Dome is one of the most iconic images of Yosemite National Park. Formed by glacial movement during the last iceage, Indian lore has a much more romantic explanation of it's creation. Though it is a favorite of rock climbers there is a much easier route, relatively, to the summit. Towering 8836 ft (2719 m) above sea level the view from the summit is astounding. The 19 mile (12 km) round trip hike to the top can be painful with the last two miles of carved steps and precarious hand cables being pretty difficult. Half Dome can be seen from many different locations throughout the Yosemite Park.