You absolutely can get married on top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. This adventure is not for everyone, and there are some special things to consider when taking on this challenge. It is important to remember that you alone are responsible for your safety and comfort when tackling a challenge this adventurous.

Half Dome, a Yosemite icon, rises nearly 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above Yosemite Valley and 8,800 feet (2,682 meters) above sea level. In 1865, a report declaring that Half Dome was “perfectly inaccessible, being probably the only one of the prominent points about the Yosemite which never has been, and never will be, trodden by human foot.” In 1875, George Anderson proved the report wrong by reaching the summit, and in the process laying the foundation for today’s cable route.

The roughly 16-mile round-trip hike to Half Dome is not for you if you’re out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (roughly 5,000 feet, 1,524 meters) most of your way to the summit, and you will loose this elevation on your way back down. For many, coming down is harder than going up because of fatigue and the strain on your joints from the force of gravity. Many who make the summit say the reward is worth the effort. Along the way, you’ll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Little Yosemite Valley, The South Face of Half Dome, and once you reach the summit, panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

The most famous, and mentally challenging, part of the hike is the ascent up the cables. The National Park Service has installed two metal cables (which are present year-round, but not always ‘up’) which allow hikers to climb the last 400 feet to the summit without rock climbing equipment. The Half Dome cables are ‘laid down’ for the winter after the Columbus Day weekend in October, and usually go back up the Friday before the Memorial Day weekend in May. These dates are subject to change based on conditions.

Since 1919 there have been some fatalities ascending or descending the cables. However, injuries and fatalities are uncommon for those acting responsibly, who know their limitations and abilities, and are prepared with the appropriate gear for their experience level.

If you are a rock climber, there is an easy climb, Snake Dike, that ascends the Southwest Face. Rated at 5.8, this climb affords another way to summit Half Dome. One plus to choosing this method is you do not need to obtain a wilderness permit unless you plan to spend the night in Little Yosemite Valley. While you are required to obtain a permit to ascend the cables, you are not required to get a permit if you are descending them after climbing one of the many routes. 

Regardless of how you plan to conquer this adventure, you will need to obtain a permit to summit Half Dome (in addition to your special use permit for the ceremony) when the cables are ‘up.’ Additionally, everyone should carry a flashlight or headlamp (with fully charged batteries), plenty of food and water, warm clothes for layering up after dark, a small first aid kit (an Ace Bandage, or similar, for knee and ankle support may be handy), and trekking poles. You will also want to bring a camera and other personal items for comfort and to document your adventure. And don’t forget, you’ll also be carrying your wedding attire as well. Below is a more detailed list.

Although the trail is well marked, you should be prepared with a good topographic map and compass and know how to use them. Depending on the winter season, and how much snow Yosemite received, early season (November – early May) trail conditions can be challenging to navigate.

Most hikers take 12 to 16 hours to hike to Half Dome and back in one day; some take longer. It is also possible to make this a multi-day backpacking adventure, spending two or three nights out in the Yosemite wilderness. Here is a suggested itinerary for a multi-day adventure:

1. Day one, (four miles, 2,100 feet (640 meters) elevation gain): hike to Little Yosemite Valley and spend the night. You will need obtain a permit to stay at the Little Yosemite Valley Campground.
2. Day two* (eight miles, 2,700 feet (823 meters) of elevation gain/loss): Hike to the summit and get married. Hike back down and spend the night in Little Yosemite Valley. (Approximately an 8-mile day.)
3. Day three, (four miles, 2,100 feet (640 meters) elevation loss) hike back down to Yosemite Valley.

*Alternate day two, (12 miles, 2,100 feet (640 meters) elevation gain, 5,000 feet (1,524 meters elevation loss): Hike to summit and get married. Hike back to Yosemite Valley.

What to bring with you (this list is not inclusive and is only a suggestion, representing what I normally bring with me. Expect your pack to weigh from 20-30 pounds (9-14 kilograms)):

1. Appropriate footwear. Depending on the season, I wear waterproof trail shoes or boots, or non-waterproof trail running shoes. I’ve also hiked Half Dome in sandals, though my feet ached for a few days afterwards. 
2. Flashlight or headlamp with fully charged batteries.
3. Plenty of food and water. I like to bring trail mix, protein bars, electrolyte tablets, and maybe a sandwich or some other hardy meal.
4. Appropriate clothing for the season. I always bring a windbreaker and a puffy jacket no matter the season. It can be windy and get chilly up there.
5. First Aid kit, including something for blisters and knee and/or ankle support.
6. Trekking poles. Properly using poles can reduce impact on your knees and joints allowing you to go further and suffer less, especially the next day. Additionally, trekking poles can assist in getting down if you injure a knee or ankle.
7. Sturdy gloves (for descending the cables). Gloves are useful, but not necessary for ascending the cables, but are highly recommended for the descent. Sometimes, the cables will fray in certain areas and the gloves can save from a severe puncture wound. They also help from developing blisters on your hands.
8. Camera, smartphone, etc., for documenting your adventure. Yes, there is usually cell service on top of Half Dome. 
9. Ceremony items: marriage license, vow books and rings (if applicable), wedding attire, dress shoes, makeup, mirror, etc.
10. Camping gear and food if spending the night in Little Yosemite Valley.

Tips while ascending the cables:

• Take your time and be patient with slower hikers.
• Allow faster hikers to pass you (when possible).
• Remain on the inside of the cables.
• Bring a swami belt, slings, and some carabiners if you are in anyway uncertain about your abilities.

DO NOT attempt the ascent if:

• Storm clouds are in the area, and/or a storm is forecasted.
• You hear thunder or see lightening. Even if the lightening is too far to hear, the storm could advance on your position at a rapid pace.
• The ground is wet (the cables and rock become very slick when wet; most accidents on the cables occur during wet conditions)
• If you doubt your abilities, do not attempt to ascend if the cables are down for the winter.

Pros of getting married on Half Dome:

• Incredible views.
• Besides getting married, you can check a bucket list item of your list.
• For the experienced or adventurous couples, you can hike to the top when the cables are down, no permit needed.
• Different options for locations to get away from the crowds.
• Depending on the season and time of day, there may not be anyone except you on top.

Cons of getting married on Half Dome:

• If the cables are up you will need to obtain a permit to hike to the top of Half Dome.
• Not suitable for larger groups or couples who are not adventurous.
• The hike is 16-mile round trip from Yosemite Valley with about 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) of elevation change.
• While you can hike/climb Half Dome year round, the cables are only in place from about Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend in October.
• Depending on the time of day you plan to top out, it can be busy on the cables and at the summit.
• Due to the nature of this adventure your pack will be relatively heavy and you will want to hike your wedding attire to the top before changing.

Always use Leave No Trace Principles regardless of where you are. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints. Pack it in, pack it out.