Perhaps you've been locked into the vacuum of city life. Half Dome is a huge rock in rising almost a mile above Yosemite Valley, awaiting climbers brave enough to clamber up its steep face. The atmosphere changes dramatically the higher you go, the air becoming more difficult to breathe, and the temperature becomes frigid. But still, I felt a calling to go it alone, not even advising friends or family of my adventure. I strongly needed to prove to myself that I could conquer this challenge.
Mingled with many people attempting this trek in their own groups, I felt very alone initially, but eventually becoming part of something much bigger. Passing other hikers on the trails, watching people on the beach, and ultimately camping with kindred spirits led me on quite the journey. I hope you, dear readers, can enjoy it half as much as I did!