Half Dome: The History of Yosemite’s Iconic Mountain
Half Dome: The History of Yosemite’s Iconic Mountain traces this granite monolith’s story through the ages, from 500 million years ago to the present day. Learn about Half Dome’s fiery beginnings. Discover its unique summit ecology. Hear the origin story that the Native Americans knew. Feel the exhilaration of the first humans to climb its steep faces. Read the tragic tales of death that have befallen many on this dome. Tune in to the management of a mountain that belongs to all. Finally, find inspiration from the beauty that our planet holds.This book is an excellent resource for anyone visiting Yosemite, hikers and climbers who wish to reach the summit, lovers of mountains, and readers of history. Included are several maps of the area, numerous historical photos and drawings, a timeline of Half Dome, and an index.
Book Details:
- Print Length: 174 pages
- Weight: 9 ounces
- Dimensions: 5.2 x 0.4 x 8 inches
Paperback: $13.95 available at most independent bookstores and Amazon.
eBook: $9.95 available at Amazon.
Wholesale: Wholesale copies for booksellers are available through Ingram or direct.
Contents:
- Geological History
- Ecological History
- Native American History
- European Sightings and Naming a Mountain
- First Attempts to Scale the Dome
- First Ascents
- The Cables
- First Technical Rock Climb
- The Regular Northwest Face
- The South Face
- Managing a Mountain
- A Dangerous Mountain
- Half Dome Today
The Author:
Joe Reidhead lives in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. An avid outdoorsman and mountain climber, Reidhead worked in Yosemite’s wilderness for several years and was fortunate to live beneath Half Dome’s shadow during that time.





