Half Dome in Yosemite National Park has earned a notorious reputation as one of the most dangerous tourist attractions in California-and indeed, the United States. Regularly featured on lists of the world’s most perilous destinations, Half Dome’s combination of natural beauty and inherent risk draws thousands of adventure-seekers each year, but not without significant hazards.
What Makes Half Dome So Dangerous?
Challenging Terrain and Exposure
- The hike to Half Dome is a strenuous 14-mile round trip, with an elevation gain of 4,800 feet. The final ascent involves a steep, exposed section where hikers must use steel cables bolted into the granite to reach the summit.
- The granite surface is smooth and, when wet, becomes extremely slick, dramatically increasing the risk of falls.
Weather Hazards
- Sudden storms are a significant threat. Lightning strikes have claimed lives on the summit, and rain transforms the already treacherous rock into a deadly slide.
- The high elevation also exposes hikers to rapidly changing weather and increased risk of altitude sickness.
Crowds and Human Error
- Before the permit system, overcrowding on the cables created bottlenecks, making quick escapes impossible if storms rolled in. Even now, risk-taking behavior and inexperience contribute to accidents.
Accident and Fatality Statistics
Documented Deaths
- As of 2025, at least 25 people have died on the cable section and summit of Half Dome. When including the Mist Trail-the popular approach route-the number rises to between 40 and 65 deaths, depending on the source.
- Deaths have resulted from falls, lightning strikes, heart attacks, rock climbing accidents, and even base jumping (which is illegal in Yosemite).
Rescues and Accidents
- Yosemite’s search and rescue team responds to approximately 250 incidents per year, more than any other national park in the U.S., with Half Dome accounting for a significant share.
- Between 2005 and 2019, there were at least 13 deaths, 291 accidents, and 140 search and rescue missions related to Half Dome alone.
Notable Incidents
- In 2019, a hiker slipped on the steepest part of the climb and fell 500 feet to her death when the granite was wet from rain.
- In 1985, five hikers ignored storm warnings and were struck by lightning on the summit.
- In 2011, three hikers died in separate incidents, two of whom attempted the climb when the cables were down and lost their footing on wet granite.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
- Preparation is critical: Only those in good physical condition and with proper gear should attempt the hike.
- Weather awareness: Never attempt the cables if rain or storms are forecasted. The majority of fatal accidents occur during wet conditions.
- Respect your limits: If you feel unwell, tired, or conditions deteriorate, it’s safer to turn back than to risk the summit.
- Use safety equipment: Gloves and, for some, a climbing harness can provide additional security on the cables.
Why Do People Still Attempt It?
Despite the risks, Half Dome remains a bucket-list destination for hikers worldwide. The allure of standing atop its 8,836-foot-high crown and taking in panoramic views of Yosemite Valley is irresistible to many. With proper preparation, awareness, and respect for the mountain’s dangers, thousands safely complete the journey each year.
Half Dome’s status as California’s most dangerous tourist attraction is well-earned, with a history of fatal accidents and rescues underscoring the need for caution. For those who choose to take on the challenge, understanding and respecting the risks is essential. Nature’s beauty and danger are intertwined here-making Half Dome both an unforgettable adventure and a sobering reminder of the power of the wild.
Sources:
- https://www.iheart.com/alternate/amp/2025-03-06-2-california-spots-among-the-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions-in-the-us/
- https://www.activenorcal.com/yosemite-destination-ranks-as-californias-most-dangerous-tourist-attraction/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Yosemite/comments/v0mbvx/mom_says_half_dome_is_too_dangerous_i_say_we_can/
- https://theworldtravelguy.com/half-dome-deaths/
- https://yosemitehouse.com/half-dome-safety-gear
