North American Classic Climbs

Half Dome

Snake Dike

Description

Climbers*

Photo*

Date

02O16

02O16

Half Dome from an unusual perspective to the SW. The Snake Dike route climbs the lower-angle buttress.

-

GC

08/15/68

d02_187

d02_187

On the Mist Trail, early morning, approaching Vernal Falls.

LC

GC

09/12/02

d02_188

d02_188

First view of Half Dome from the trail.

-

GC

"

d02_189

d02_189

The South Face from the approach around the east side of Liberty Cap. There are several alternate approaches.

GC

LC

"

d02_190

d02_190

Crossing ledges at the base of the South Face, close to the start of the route.

GC

LC

"

d02_191

d02_191

The dikes that define the route are clearly visible as you round the corner en route to the saddle.

-

GC

"

d02_192

d02_192

First moves up moderate slabs.

RB

GC

"

d02_193

d02_193

The crux of pitch 1 is a traverse to the left side of the roof. The roof provides good protection only at the start of the traverse.

RB

GC

"

d02_194

d02_194

The leader is at the (60m) belay stance for pitch 1. The follower is climbing the flake that ends the pitch, or that can provide a belay spot for parties with shorter ropes.

RB, GW

GC

"

d02_195

d02_195

Following the easy flake at the top of pitch 1. A recent burn is evident below.

LC

GC

"

d02_196

d02_196

The belay stance at the top of the flake. There is a modern two-bolt anchor here.

GC

LC

"

d02_197

d02_197

Pitch 2 begins with a horizontal traverse.

GC

LC

"

d02_198

d02_198

Following pitch 2, the first to utilize a dike.

LC

GC

"

d02_199

d02_199

Pitch 3 begins with an exciting friction traverse to gain another dike.

GC

LC

"

d02_200

d02_200

Reaching the dike, a tempting old bolt anchor presents itself, but the leader should skip it if the second is to be well-protected on the traverse.

GC

LC

"

d02_201

d02_201

Following pitch 3.

LC

GC

"

d02_202

d02_202

Straight up a good dike that typifies the next several pitches.

GC

LC

"

d02_203

d02_203

Leading, pitch 5.

GC

LC

"

d02_206

d02_206

Pitch 6.

GC

LC

"

d02_207

d02_207

One of the few opportunities for natural protection on the route. Note the method of slinging so it tightens when loaded.

-

GC

"

d02_208

d02_208

Looking down at the considerable exposure gained by the top of pitch 6.

GC

LC

"

d02_209

d02_209

The view to the SE from high on the route. Mt. Clark is the prominent peak.

-

LC

"

d02_210

d02_210

Leading pitch 7 via the left variation shown on the topo. (Not particularly recommended.)

LC

GC

"

d02_212

d02_212

Wandering up expansive low-angled slabs toward the summit.

GC

LC

"

d02_213

d02_213

Nearing the summit, with Yosemite Valley in the background.

GC

LC

"

d02_215

d02_215

The summit area is surprisingly spacious.

-

LC

"

d02_216

d02_216

Beginning the descent of the cables.

GW, RB

LC

"

d02_217

d02_217

Descending the cables.

GC

LC

"

d02_218

d02_218

Nevada Falls in late afternoon light on the descent. It is even more spectacular in spring.

-

LC

"