Hike Half Dome
Musings about hiking Yosemite's signature landmark, Half Dome.
Entry for July 4, 2008 - Tunnel View Update
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Half Dome – Yosemite Musings

Construction is about 1/3 done on the Tunnel View Restoration project. (Hwy 41 to Wawona) This spot is a prime photo op for El Cap and Half Dome. Recently 2 large trees were cut down that always messed up the prefect shot.  This project will improve pedestrian and vehicle circulation, restore the overlook vista, enlarge the viewing area, install educational exhibits, and realign the Inspiration Point Trailhead. Old Inspiration Point was where the Mariposa Battalion first eyed the Valley. I’ve hiked there from the Taft Point area, but not up the Tunnel trail. The vista has been expanded and the north parking area is nearly complete. The area is currently open, but expect to see construction equipment and a zillion tourists. Money for this project comes from the Yosemite Fund – please consider joining this great group.

Unrelated thought worth quoting: “I'm feelin' (glad all over), Yes, I'm-a (glad all over). Baby, I'm (glad all over), so glad you're mine.” - Dave Clark Five

*Carpe Diem Experience– Rick Deutsch–www.HikeHalfDome.com*
2008-07-04 05:58:47 GMT
Comments (3 total)
Author:Anonymous
Happy Birthday, America! I hope you all are having an enjoyable weekend. :)

I took this picture on the 30th of May during our recent visit in Yosemite. As you can see some of the trees are gone as Rick already mentioned.

This picture was taken with an ultra wide angle lens so you might the perspective a bit unusual. As you can see there were some dramatic clouds over Yosemite Valley that particular afternoon:

www.soulstation.net/tunnel_view_may2008.jpg

Sorry for this boring picture as you've seen something like that a zillion of times before but I really like the clouds. In fact there have been a couple of hikers on top of Half Dome that afternoon - apparently ignoring all warnings (lightning!).

www.soulstation.net/tunnel_view2_may2008.jpg

Enjoy!


--Sönke
2008-07-04 15:41:35 GMT
Author:Anonymous
Rick
I volunteered for the month of June in Yosemite with the Yosemite Association. I saw your presentation at the La Conte Museum. You were great as is your book. I referred several visitors to the book as well as passing on some of your tips. What I counldn't find in the book is the specific name of the blister prevention cream you use on your feet before hiking. Could you let me know what it is?
--Jan Webster
<mailto:jweb7484@aol.com>
2008-07-04 20:19:50 GMT
Author:Anonymous
Jan,

Thakns for the kind words and the help at Le Conte. What a nice place.

I refrained from mentioning brand names in the book to avoid alienating anyone. For years I just used Vaseline Petroleum jelly for my foot lubricant. Then a couple years ago some commercial products became available without the gooey characteristics of petroleum jelly. I use Runner's Lube when it's in my bag. It's sold for runners - anywhere there is potential chaffing...feet, crotch, underarms, thighs etc.

A Product called "Body Glide" now has the anti-blister - anti-chafing features, but it also has SPF 25 mixed in. They sell a small .45 oz roll-on. This is small enuff to fit in your pack and allows for re-application at the top of Half Dome before you head down. Use to prevent blisters and for neck/face sunsreen. Found at Outdoor stores.

Rick


--Rick D
<mailto:info@hikehalfdome.com>
2008-07-05 21:22:08 GMT
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