Clouds Rest Yosemite - Hike Guide

Clouds Rest hike guide: stunning Yosemite views from above Half Dome, no permit needed, with tips for the narrow summit ridge.
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Clouds Rest is one of Yosemite’s most spectacular summit hikes, offering panoramic views from over a thousand feet above Half Dome. If you can’t get a Half Dome permit or just want a bucket-list experience without the cables, this is the hike to do. It’s just under 13 miles roundtrip, with moderate climbing and a final narrow ridge section that some hikers find intimidating — but I’ll show you exactly what it looks like and how to navigate it confidently.

The hike begins at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead, which can get busy with other hikers heading to Tenaya Lake or backcountry routes. The first section is mostly flat before a steep, rocky climb of about 1,000 feet in the first mile — the toughest stretch of the day for most people. From there, the trail rolls through lush forest, seasonal streams, and meadows, with occasional views of Sunrise Mountain and surrounding peaks. There are multiple water sources along the way if you carry a filter.

Approaching Clouds Rest, the trail gradually climbs toward a saddle before the spine — the exposed ridge leading to the summit. The ridge is generally wide, with only a short section narrowing to about 15–20 feet. Staying slightly left keeps you away from the steeper drop on the right, and you can follow well-worn footprints along a more comfortable line. Unlike Half Dome, there are no cables or technical sections, and it’s a safe route for most prepared hikers.

At the summit, the views are unmatched. Half Dome sits directly below, with visible hikers on the cables, and you can see Yosemite Valley, Mount Clark, the high country along Tioga Road, and peaks stretching into the distance. The summit is broad and flat, making it a perfect place to rest, take photos, and soak in the scenery before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.
For parking tips, seasonal conditions, and a full gear list, visit hikingguy.com. This is a Yosemite classic that belongs on every hiker’s list — incredible views without the Half Dome crowds or permit hassle.


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