Adeventure 008, Hike 031 - Sentinel Dome

Capture California, the Game-2012

Adventure: 008, Hike 031 – Sentinel Dome

Team: Thing One, Thing Two

Date:  July 3, 2012

Location: Glacier Pt Area, Yosemite

Hike Info:

Trail: Sentential Dome Parking Lot

Distance: 2.4

Duration: 2:23, 1:21 moving

Elevation Rise: 736'

Description:
If you ever want to do a dome walk/climb, this is the one to do. We know that Half Dome gets all of the publicity, but with a 17 mile, 4,400' climb it takes a bit of doing. North Dome is a nice hike, but a bit long. So for the quick, but scenic dome climb, do Sentinel Dome. The grade is pretty decent and it is walkable, with a bit of climb.



You start at the Sentential Dome parking area close to Glacier Point. You can make a nice triangle loop by including Taft Point for a 3 mile hike, but we only did Sentinel Dome. The trail is a bit divergent in places because of the popularity. Also there are a few places where the rocks need a bit of working around—but nothing more than most Sierra trails. After ¾ of a mile, you hit the old parking lot road. Following the road and a trail around to the north-east side of the dome, you come to a place where you make a left turn. It is time to climb the dome. Here, the route is pretty much up to you. We like to criss-cross the dome because it makes for less strenuous climb. But for those inclined to, they can charge straight up it without any hand hold climbing.

We also find the climb fascinating as you get to watch Yosemite Falls, El Capitan come into view. And of course, there is Half Dome, looming behind you. Once on top, you have a 360 degree view of Yosemite. From Yosemite Valley at your feet to El Capitan to the West, The Clark Range to East, with half Dome of course. As a treat you get to see Clouds Rest looking over Half Dome. To the South is only rolling mountains, which anyplace else would be noteworthy. To the North is Mt Hoffman dominating the skyline, along with North Dome.



We spent over an hour loitering around the dome, before returning back the way we came. When is the best time to make this trek? I personally think in the early morning before the crowds or in the evening right before sunset.