Half Dome

Half Dome is the significant icon of Yosemite National Park and arguably the most famous and coveted day hike in North America. Looming almost 5,000 feet (1,500m) above Yosemite Valley, the massive granite dome challenges hikers with a grueling, massive elevation gain. The classic route ascends via the dramatic Mist Trail, passing two massive waterfalls, ascending through dense pine forests to Little Yosemite Valley, and finally climbing the stark, exposed rock of Sub Dome. The grand finale is the legendary 'Cables' section—two metal cables suspended by steel poles drilled into the sheer, 45-degree granite face. Hikers should use their upper body strength to pull themselves up the final 400 feet of slick granite to a flat summary that offers scenic views of the entire Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

One of the most frequented day hikes from El Chaltén, the route to Laguna Torre leads to a glacial lake at the base of the Torre massif. The 18 km out-and-back trail follows the Fitz Roy River valley, moving through sub-antarctic forests of ñire and lenga. The terrain is primarily well-maintained gravel paths and packed dirt, with a short initial ascent followed by mostly level walking through the glacial valley. The destination offers direct views of Cerro Torre (3,128m) and the Adela range, with icebergs frequently calving from the Torre Glacier into the lake.