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Hiking trails: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu vs. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park

Quick Verdict

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a multi-day trek that combines historical Inca ruins with stunning Andean landscapes, requiring a guided tour and advance permit booking. It is moderately challenging and involves camping at designated sites. Half Dome, in Yosemite National Park, is a very strenuous day hike offering panoramic views, but it requires a permit and involves a technical climbing section with cables. The Inca Trail is better suited for those interested in cultural history and guided experiences, while Half Dome appeals to experienced hikers seeking a challenging climb with rewarding views.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeInca Trail to Machu PicchuHalf Dome, Yosemite National Park
Trail Length (miles/km)Classic: 25-26 miles (40-43 km); Short: 5.81 miles (9.35km)14-17 miles (22-27 km)
Elevation Gain (feet/meters)7,063 - 8,225 feet (2153 - 2507 meters). Max elevation: 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman's Pass. Average elevation: 9,842 feet (3000 meters)4,800 - 5,457 feet (1463-1600 meters)
Difficulty Level (Easy, Moderate, Strenuous)Moderate to challengingVery Strenuous/Hard
Permit Requirements (Yes/No)YesYes
Best Time to Hike (Season/Month)Dry season (April to early October). Peak months: June and July. Recommended: April, May, September, and October. Not recommended: February (trail closed)Late May to early October
Average Completion Time (Days/Hours)Classic: 4 days and 3 nights; Short: 2 days10-16 hours
Scenery/Landscape HighlightsAndean mountains, cloud forests, Inca ruins (Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayaqmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wi yhuayna), dramatic mountain passes, The Sun Gate (Inti Punku), diverse flora (orchids and wildflowers)Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, Half Dome itself, panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra, forests of Sequoia trees
Crowd Levels (Low, Moderate, High)Moderate to high, especially during peak season (June-August)High
Availability of Water SourcesMultiple water sources (streams and rivers) available. Tour companies typically purify water.Limited reliable sources
Camping Options (Designated sites, backcountry)Designated campsitesLittle Yosemite Valley Campground, dispersed camping beyond the Half Dome/John Muir Trail junction
Guided Tour AvailabilityRequiredNot available
Technical Climbing Sections (Yes/No)NoYes
PriceNot availableNot available
RatingsNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Inca Trail: 25-26 miles, 7,063-8,225 ft elevation gain, 4 days. Half Dome: 14-17 miles, 4,800-5,457 ft elevation gain, 10-16 hours.

Pros and Cons

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Pros:
  • Highlights include cloud forests, Inca ruins, and mountain views.
  • Guides are knowledgeable about the history, culture, and ecology of the area.
Cons:
  • Altitude sickness is a common challenge.
  • The trail can be crowded, especially during peak season (June-August), which may impact the experience.
  • The trail consists of ancient stone steps that can be irregular in size and shape.

Half Dome, Yosemite National Park

Pros:
  • Outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.
  • Generally well-marked trail.
Cons:
  • Extremely demanding due to the significant elevation gain and long distance.
  • Trail is known to get very busy.
  • Permits are required and difficult to obtain.
  • Limited reliable water sources.
  • Slippery conditions on the Mist Trail and the granite dome.
  • Potential for afternoon thunderstorms.
  • Crowds on the cables.
  • Dehydration if not carrying enough water.
  • Rodents trying to steal snacks.

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