North Dome
Peak · 7,542 ft · Yosemite corridor
North Dome is a 7542-foot summit in Yosemite's high country, perched above the Valley's north rim with direct exposure to Sierra wind patterns. Typically colder and windier than Valley floor elevations.
North Dome sits exposed on the ridgeline with afternoon wind funneling across open granite. Morning hours are calmer; wind ramps up by midday and peaks in early afternoon. Snow persists well into spring; frozen surfaces and corniced ridges require avalanche terrain awareness.
Over the past month, North Dome averaged a NoGo score of 33, with wind holding steady at 7 mph on average but gusting to 22 mph on rougher days. Temperatures averaged 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The week ahead will likely mirror this pattern: expect mild mornings, afternoon wind spikes, and lingering snow above 7000 feet. Plan early departures to beat the wind window.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About North Dome
North Dome sits on the northern rim of Yosemite Valley, accessed primarily via the Yosemite Valley Loop and the North Dome Trail, which climbs from the Valley floor. The approach from Mirror Lake trailhead is the standard route; Highway 120 provides the main access corridor from the west. Total elevation gain from the Valley is significant; most parties camp or overnight to manage the ascent. The peak sits directly above Indian Canyon and overlooks the Valley's major landmarks from the north. Winter access depends on Highway 120 snow closure status; spring ascents require checking current conditions with the National Park Service.
North Dome experiences extreme seasonal variation. From late spring through early fall, afternoon winds are the dominant hazard; the 30-day average wind of 7 mph understates peak gusts that exceed 20 mph in afternoons. Temperature swings from 21 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to 51 degrees in mid-summer. Crowding remains moderate year-round due to the route's technical scrambling sections and elevation exposure; the base popularity is low compared to Half Dome or Glacier Point. Snow lingers into June above 7000 feet; wet-slab avalanche risk is highest in April and May when daytime warming accelerates melt. Autumn offers the calmest conditions and clearest views.
North Dome suits experienced Sierra scramblers and peak baggers comfortable with exposed granite, fixed chains, and route-finding on talus. Winter ascents require avalanche training and ice axe competency; the standard route crosses avalanche terrain during the active season. Parking at Mirror Lake trailhead fills by mid-morning on good-weather weekends; early starts are essential. The summit views span the entire High Sierra; visibility is best on mornings following high-pressure systems. Bring water; no reliable sources above the Valley. Afternoon electrical storms are common in summer; descend off the ridge by early afternoon.
Half Dome and Glacier Point offer similar exposure with easier logistics; both sit closer to the Valley and draw larger crowds. Cloud's Rest, north of North Dome, provides an alternative high point with less technical scrambling. The Tenaya Lake approach via Highway 120 offers faster access to the eastern high country but less dramatic summit views. Visitors combining North Dome with the Valley's main attractions should plan separate days due to the round-trip time and afternoon wind window.