Clouds Rest
9,926 ft | 1 trails | California
9,926 ft
1 routes
Strenuous
About Clouds Rest
Clouds Rest offers what many consider the best views in Yosemite National Park—even better than Half Dome. At 9,926 feet, this granite dome provides 360-degree panoramas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome (from above!), the High Sierra, and Tenaya Canyon.
The 14.5-mile round trip is challenging but doesn't require permits or cables like Half Dome. The final approach along a narrow granite ridge is exhilarating, with steep drop-offs on both sides. This is a true High Sierra experience with far fewer crowds than Yosemite's permit-required summits.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for Clouds Rest?
No permit required for day hiking! This is a huge advantage over Half Dome. You only need to pay the Yosemite park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle). Wilderness permits are required only if you're backpacking overnight.
Is Clouds Rest harder than Half Dome?
Clouds Rest is slightly easier than Half Dome: 14.5 miles vs 14-16 miles, 2,300 ft gain vs 4,800 ft gain, and no cables or permit lottery. The final ridge is narrow but not technical. Most fit hikers find it more accessible than Half Dome while offering equally spectacular views.
Can you see Half Dome from Clouds Rest?
Yes! Clouds Rest offers the iconic aerial view of Half Dome that you see in photos. You're looking DOWN on Half Dome from 1,000 feet higher. It's one of the most photographed perspectives in Yosemite. Bring a good camera!
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow at higher elevations, stream crossings high
summer
June - August
Best hiking conditions, afternoon thunderstorms possible
fall
September - November
Peak foliage mid-September to mid-October, cooler temperatures
winter
December - February
Severe alpine conditions, high winds, extreme cold
Winter Gear Checklist
- Microspikes/crampons
- Snowshoes
- Winter layers
- Emergency bivy
Tip: Winter hiking above treeline requires mountaineering experience.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Extreme cold
- High winds
- Ice on trails
- Short daylight
- Avalanche risk
Turn-Around Time
1:00 PM (2:00 PM summer)
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Clouds Rest. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Peak Bagging Tip
Cathedral Lakes is only 5.4 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!