A conversation on Sunday, August 24, 2025, with an invitation to hike Half Dome in Yosemite that same week. An extra slot, mine for the taking!
Why Not? To be in the mighty Yosemite, to meet new friends, to take on a challenge, to test myself, to believe in myself.
Packed two days later, jumped on a plane Weds morning, 4-hour drive to Yosemite, met the crew. Four new friends each with amazing personal and professional journeys.
Frolicked in Yosemite Valley to acclimate to the altitude for a day. Thursday 10:15 PM we began the trek.
Each had head lamp, poles, packs, 4 liters of water, snacks, first aid kits, compass. We walked into the dark – each person only knowing one other.
The camaraderie of the group was exceptional – easy conversations, active curiosity, respect for life challenges, hopes for the future, support, and laughter.
There was no rush, just pure joy in the privilege. We took breaks and stared up at the night sky, shone our headlamps on towering waterfalls, dodged spider webs, shared treats, and moved forward.
We got to the cables at 0430 Friday morning and ascended to the top of Half Dome. We laughed and played, waiting for the sun to peek over the distant mountains.
The descent was arduous, and our knees and feet were aching, like walking on glass. Positive attitudes remained intact – not a single complaint.
14 hours
5,568 ft elevation gain
8,850 ft max elevation
50% grade on cables
4 happy hikers
Jamie Belongea
