Category Archives: Hikes

Hiking - General, National Forests, National Parks

Lottery for Half Dome Cables Day Use Permits Now Open!

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

While there are up to 300 hikers allowed on the Half Dome cables per day, there are far MORE people who want to hike the route. The permit lottery is now open. If you want to hike Half Dome, sign up at www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

You can also sign up for the two-day-in-advance permits through www.recreation.gov.

From the press release:

Hiking to the top of Half Dome is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite National Park. The iconic granite monolith, at 8,842 feet above sea level, attracts people from all over the world who attempt to climb to the summit. Most visitors ascend Half Dome via the cables, which are typically in place from mid-May through mid-October. Most visitors begin and end their hike at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley. This is an approximately 17 mile round-trip journey.

Remember: Permits Required Seven Days Per Week to Hike Half Dome Cables. Continue reading →

Hiking - General, National Forests, State Parks

Hiking the Beautiful USA

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

REI has posted an infographic displaying a US National Scenic Trails Map, Packing Tips and Trivia

Yes, I know that REI is a retailer, and this is (obviously) a bit of free advertising from them that they’re encouraging visitors to share (the “Add this infographic to your website by copying the code below” bit on the REI website was kinda a give away), but getting outside is a GOOD thing!

REI – Recreational Equipment Inc. – was founded by Lloyd and Mary Anderson back in 1938 when they couldn’t find any good quality climbing gear for reasonable prices locally. It all started with an Akadem Pickel ice axe that was imported from Austria. From there, it’s become one of the largest private sporting goods and outdoor gear retailer in the U.S., opening 6 stores a year and boasting sales that exceed 1.8 billion a year.

From the REI website:

Plan a fun and safe hiking trip with a little help from this REI infographic. Our illustrated map gives you a bird’s-eye view of the United States’ 11 National Scenic Trails which measure more than 18,753 miles combined. You’ll also find tips on what to bring and trail trivia. Outfit yourself with hiking gear from REI before you hit the trail.

You can get the full-size infographic HERE.

You can visit REI HERE.