Woman falls off Half Dome . . . and lives!

[@dawneen4537]

I was knocked off a bridge in 2018 and only fell about ten feet to some rocks. I managed to ride my horse back to the trailer and was told at the ER that I had broken my neck. I disagreed because I was led to believe I had only cracked a bone spur. It was not too long ago that a chiropractor saw my X-rays and showed me that I did in fact break my neck. Heck, my horse even bucked a couple of times on the way back from getting stung by some yellow jackets. My friends were impressed at how I was hurt and rode through that like it was just another day in the park. Maybe I was still in shock? I’m so glad you are still here and after such a traumatic fall. I am probably going to have to have my spine fused soon from my fall. I hope your injuries don’t plague you as you age like they do me. My surgeon said he’s amazed at what I do from looking at my MRI and X-ray results. I do everything on my 92 year old mother’s property including splitting large tree rounds into firewood with a pneumatic wood splitter (I used the forks on the tractor to move the rounds). I need to start doing yoga and swimming to get ready for surgery but can’t find the time to get to a pool or the gym. The bridge was very slick so I was leading my horse across. She was sliding all over from her steel shoes and knocked me off. My friends said the horse came very close to falling off which would have killed me instantly. Fortunately we are still a team and ride the mountains to enjoy nature and being one with God.

[@MagicMoon11]

Thank you to everyone for your supportive comments. It's been a long journey of recovery and I am continuing to be amazed at my progress and the remarkable community of people who have helped me along the journey. My gratitude is never ending.

[@mr.fishypants6324]

A true warrior!

[@Augfordpdoggie]

Gina you're so pretty

[@richhcassidy]

Incredible story - thanks for posting this and sharing some wise words. We were on holiday in SF and Yosemite from the UK this summer and sadly bailed out of Halfdome with our two daughters choosing to hike some of the smaller peaks instead. There's certainly no shortage of spectacular places to hike in Yosemite! I try to teach my kids to push and challenge themselves but always be smart about it (and always be properly prepared)! One day they'll be back I'm sure! Good luck Gina - amazing recovery! And thank goodness for all the mountain rescue folks, they do a fantastic job.

[@garyschenck2828]

Wow Gina. What an amazing story. I have been twice. first time I blistered out and had to go back. Came back when I was 25. Left late in morning. Got to cables at 2:30. got stuck behind someone trying to overcome his fear of heights. Finally made it to top by 3:30. Coming down about the same place I started getting vertigo and was harder going back down. Got back to happy trails about 8:30pm. Hiked in the dark for 2 hours by moonlight. So glad to hear you are O.K. You are truly an amazing person.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

+gary schenck You're story is pretty intense, too. Thanks for your comments. I'm very grateful for how it so beautifully worked out for me. It's not a hike for the casual hiker. And I do not recommend going any length of time on that hike via moonlight. I'm glad you're safe, too. Best, Gina

[@MrTangent]

Gina Bartiromo Very happy to hear your story of survival and overcoming your injuries. I, too, am a brain injury survivor (ruptured brain aneurysm/brain surgery). As an aside, you look a lot like my sister. :) Stay safe, Gina.

[@KatrinaKenison]

Gina, I watched through tears. So lovely to see you sharing your story -- your courage and grace and gratitude are an inspiration. Beautiful video!

[@MagicMoon11]

Hi Sean and Jim! Thank you for your response and for being so great to my family and friends when this all went down! Grace and light to you! Gx

[@ONLY1NEDTHEFED]

An incredible survival story Gina. I've been watching several videos of hiking Half Dome and am breaking out in a sweat. Several years ago, I tried hiking Angels Landing at Zion and found a newly discovered fear of heights. I did not continue. As much as I'd like to do this hike, there is no way I could do it. Thank goodness for all the first responders risking their lives to save others.

[@stephenjones6030]

Thanks for your post. I LOVE the Angels Landing hike...I've done it twice and can't wait to do it again. I did Half Dome two days ago...I will never do it again...I was in fear for my life the entire way up the cables and the entire way down.

[@leechjim8023]

​​@@stephenjones6030If you clip in and trust your gear you will be fine! Disregard the ranger's advice against clipping in! For some strange reason they are blind on that issue!😀

[@robertbdesmond]

After all that trauma she still looks great. Very lucky young woman.

[@dannydunex]

Been to HD twice, you are very lucky. God is with you!

[@JeffPi31415]

Gina, You survived a very powerful and punishing experience. Great recovery and best of luck with your future. Angels are truly watching over you. Thank you for sharing

[@salsamanrocks]

Wow! Incredible story and recovery! Climbed the Half Dome Cables yesterday and one of the poles and wood planks came out as a man was descending right next to my Dad. I didn't realize how dangerous that was until now! Luckily everyone is safe and the pole and wood plank was placed back in its correct alignment. Amazing story and I wish her even more recovery so she can return to Yosemite and hike Half Dome successfully!

[@symplman14]

I climbed Half Dome and never in a million years would have done it during inclement weather conditions. The temperature has to be warm enough for the granite to not be extra slippery. Incredible you survived.

[@Jazzoboist]

Gina, what a beautiful story of recovery. Thank you for sharing your story. I am debating on climbing half dome. I myself have recovered from a spinal injury and will not stop from reaching my goals.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

+FAST GIRLS FINISH FIRST First of all, I commend you on your persistence and your brave drive to move forward in life. Recovering from a spinal injury is no small feat and it's not to be taken lightly. Congratulations. My sincerest recommendation to you in particular is to not hike Half Dome. It's a strenuous hike, 5+ hours of stair master is how I describe it. Even though I was an avid hiker and could pull off getting to the sub dome, the weather and circumstance play such a key role... too many factors to play into the scenario that only add to the challenge of recovered spinal injury. IF you do choose to go, I highly recommend training for it. And reading Rick Deutsch's book One Best Hike Yosemite's Half Dome AND for certain, start EARLY (sun up), wear proper hiking shoes (I did and it still wasn't sufficient. That rock is slippery even when it's not raining/snowing), bring layers of clothing, a day's worth of food, emergency rain gear, flashlight, cell phone, tell someone where you're going, when you start and when you finish, and don't go if there are any clouds in the sky... it's not worth it. I wish you the best on your continued achievements. Goals are vital to keep you moving forward in life, risks can be thrilling ... but weigh the risk with the outcome. I'm a certified Life Coach and would be happy to offer you a complimentary coaching session to see if coaching can be of help to you as you follow your heart and live your absolute best life. You've come far and am thrilled to hear you strive for more, Gina

[@ginabartiromo7179]

Congrats on your recovery! I fully believe in challenging yourself to overcome limitations but Half Dome, in my opinion, is a risky challenge that one needs to train for, especially if already dealing with old injuries or, worse, fear of heights. All the best to you!! theunfoldingself.wordpress.com/my-half-dome-dance/

[@VipulDK]

What an amazing story. Thank you for what you do now to promote awareness and offering tips to people who want to hike. Half Dome is something I always wanted to hike but I haven't been able to pull my courage together. We recently did the Grand Canyon hike with friends and continue to be humbled by nature. I am glad you're able to get back to hiking. If you're an outdoor/nature person, that's where your joy lies and I'm happy for you. All the very best and thank you for sharing your story.

[@beerenovated]

We are so proud of you Gina and feel so fortunate that our paths crossed! You are an amazing spirit and an inspriation!!!! Sean and Jim

[@saharts]

Amazing story. I'm very happy that you are still with us Gina. Keep up the good fight.

[@leechjim8023]

Be in shape, experienced, and CLIPPED IN!!!

[@teresacorrigan3076]

The rangers say don’t clip in

[@danielhawkins6141]

OH MY! A THOUSAND BLESSINGS TO GINA!

[@MuirneMacM]

Wow, such an inspiring experience Gina! Thank you so much for sharing. Sounds funny but was really nice to hear your voice again :-)

[@shannon8467]

she never stopped smiling through it all! a testament to the human spirit

[@whosyourdaddy4579]

Sure...she's making money off it now.

[@theheavyhiker]

We just go back from Yosemite last week. We went up the JMT but only got a couple hours into the hike before the heat was too much. Looking forward to finishing this trip some day. This is an awesome video. Thank you for sharing.

[@rcs3030]

WOW, glad to see that you are doing alright. You must have endangered many other rescuers lives that day also when you decided to go in inclement weather.

[@loveheartwellness3942]

You are an Angel, surrounded by Angels. You are an inspiration to us all. Thank you for the Love & Light that you bring forth for all souls. I am blessed to know you and call you a friend. Hugs

[@MagicMoon11]

Thank you, JoAnn!!! I am very grateful to know you and your lovely daughter. Gxx

[@lindzbolton]

Gina, your story is so powerful and the journey you have been on is such a testament to the strength and love you have surrounding you. I am so grateful to have crossed paths with you, thank you for sharing.

[@whipsplash6943]

Someone has a guardian angel. I've done this climb and the first thing that comes to mind is don't let go of the cable, if you start rolling you'll die. She's a lucky gal.

[@stephenjones6030]

Pausing at the 3:30 mark....Gina, wow, amazing. She looks so beautiful...hard to believe this really happened. I climbed to the top 2 days ago and I will never do it again. I have a HUGE fear of heights and I was acutely aware that if I lose/miss one grip (hand over hand), I'm dead. On my way down, one of the poles on the right almost came completely out of its hole when I gripped the cable right before it.

[@HikeHalfDome]

Stephen - congrats on a great hike! I also commend you for knowing your limitations. It is a hard and scary hike.

[@DougCameraMan]

Wow... she's awesome!

[@ginabartiromo7179]

+DougCameraman Thank you so much, Doug! All the best, Gina

[@dodgedabullet670]

Because she fell?

[@sPIRIToFmYSTERY]

The story and photos are WOW!

[@RobChandler]

Wow, what an amazing story...

[@sunstarsmoon]

She's amazing, so crazy when it happens to you and everyone else completes it just fine. You never know. I'm so sorry to the fellow that just passed on Half Dome. They were showing pics of him in the park and natural settings. He was from India, living in NY. Any human can recognize the need to connect with nature and experience life in that way. He was 29, and the two hikers that just died in Sequoia National Park were both 29 too. :(

[@michaelprice2296]

Great advice on climbing there. You definitely want to be clipped in with a good harness. I can't understand why anyone would go up Half Dome without one, considering how slippery it can get if it rains even a little bit.

[@noteasy2please876]

The harness and clip should be mandatory.

[@mattmattson689]

Michael Price There's nothing "reliable" to latch onto. The poles aren't drilled into the granite, they sit in a hole and can be pulled out. A body sliding off of Half Dome which is latched onto the cables risks potentially pulling out sections of the cables and making lots of other people slip to their deaths.

[@sPIRIToFmYSTERY]

Matthew P. Mattson: Not exactly true, otherwise all climbers would always pull out the loose poles as they climb. Also the heavy steel poles are in tight vertical 5" deep slots unto rock face, so they don't just slip out sideways. All the poles do is keep the heavy cables waist high, for climbing ease. Plus some folk do use external gear, but at their own discretion. The NPS doesn't supply climbing gear, and the climb is at your own risk, just like with rock climbing. In off season, many still climb the downed cables, though not recommended by the NPS. This guy does crazy climb in about 8.5 minutes! **Half Dome Hike Solo w/ Cables Down = kzbin.info/www/bejne/moHUdZiIqdlqd7c

[@mattmattson689]

@@sPIRIToFmYSTERY Clipping into the cables is NOT recommended by NPS at the base of the cables. They watch thousands of people ascend the cables and although they haven't tested falling while clipped in, I trust their judgement. Unless you have proper shock absorbing climbing cables, you're probably not going to survive anyway. As I've already stated -- the cables aren't designed to take falls from people ascending! The assumption is that the force generated by a fall would at the very least knock others off balance and potentially cause them to slip and fall or break a pole or two. Reclipping at every post slows you down, distracts you, and makes it hard to pass other hikers.

[@sPIRIToFmYSTERY]

Matthew P. Mattson: Good points, though domino effect has never happened, and only 4 deaths since 1919 erection, and 3 weather related. Question though, how does the NPS watch climbers.. do they have a web cam on top? Ranger is stationed at bottom of subdome to check permits, but he can't see the cables from there. Also they down the cables off season due to potential damage to poles and boards from weather.

[@doug7260]

Wow, Gina..!! We should gather (natives of the land) with park service and, name something after you and your unbelievable, angel-like survivor story!! I'm Happy you lived to tell about it 🙏

[@maureenregalado6280]

Gina, You are a brave soul, Thank You for sharing. I always share your miraculous story with hiking friends. You truly an inspiration, I wish you all the best in new life's chapter. cheers, Moe

[@michael-rf8ic]

Gina, thanks for the advice about preparations b4 hiking Half Dome!

[@houseofsolomon2440]

The part @ using carabiners is spot on. I took a set up half dome & used them when I felt the need 🧗

[@dmbeaster]

Tough experience and resilient lady. Done Half Dome twice, and mountaineered all my life. Dont really like the cable routine, and the crowds. Never felt so unsafe on steep rock because of the crowds and slickened granite on the route. Hiking up Clouds Rest is much safer and more scenic. Try it.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

Thanks for the suggestion. I will keep Clouds Rest on my list. Best, Gina

[@marcvarner1]

@@ginabartiromo7179 It's really nice. Do it.

[@marcvarner1]

@D.K. Music Yes. they pull them out and put them back at the end of every season. Same with the 2x4's. The cables lay down on the rock during that time. With a crowd of people on the cables it' would be very hard to overcome their combined weight to remove one from the hole. A rescue was made once down towards the bottom where all the poles were pulled up which allowed the cable outward to the dude stuck beyond reach. I think it was like 20-30 feet. But you would need competent people for such a rescue. I think there was a story or video you can see.

[@PlanetBlake]

I am not a hiker or a climber. Why do they allow people to climb that thing without any harnesses or secondary safety rope ? I mean I see some people seem to be attached on an extra rope to the line, and some are not. And why do they let people climb it if they don't do more frequent routine maintenance to it to make sure the poles and cables are secure ? The alternative is having rescue personnel having to risk their own lives to safe someone like this unfortunate woman.

[@HikeHalfDome]

Because it's fun. A goal and a journey. If someone can't do it - they should not be there. It's in the wilderness - ergo - you assess the risk of what you are going t o do and deal with it. I want to LIVE - not just exist. You can be 100% safe by just staying under your bed.

[@marcvarner1]

Alex Hannold wouldn't have much to do with you in charge. I used to run that Saturday mornings, always trying to better my time. I used my brain to keep me safe. I was in perfect shape for it. If I ever saw a Thunderhead or risk of rain or moisture on the rock, I would turn right around and encourage overs to do the same. Same goes for lightening. That rock always gets struck by lightening. Yosemite, is not a theme park for the uninitiated.

[@leechjim8023]

​@@HikeHalfDomeSo full of SHIT!☹️ Pride goeth before the fall!

[@jaslenmontoya985]

You know it only takes a second to lose your life, lose your family, Lose everything. I'm very lucky to be alive right now. Thanks to my parents that I'm here, that they gave me a good life, and that I'm very fortunate to live with a very awesome and amazing family..and so I bless Gina Bartiromo that she will be safe. And God bless you guys who are thinking to go up hiking half dome.

[@shonuff4323]

Wow. She looks great, sounds great. I'd never know she had that many injuries.

[@teresacorrigan3076]

3:14 what about helmets

[@mariyakalynyuk162]

Can someone tell me why the first hint this lady didn’t mention for safety that harness and ropes are mandatory

[@goose7574]

Oh my goodness! She's so lucky to be alive. 🥺

[@coolnfruity6466]

very lucky! you are looking great considering!

[@ekbrooks2003]

Be sure to watch the photos from that day at the end of the interview. Clouds, helicopter, etc. It's 14 minutes altogether.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

The weather changed quickly which happens that high up.

[@tomhickman1006]

I'm a former Mountain Rescue guy. I hope you continue to recover, some new experimental treatment may further improve you recovery, Research Stem Cell Therapy.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

Thank you for doing the dedicated work you did. I will research SCT. Doing pretty well all in all. Best, Gina

[@pjb7yt523]

The Lord sustained your life by sending an angel. and protected you from falling further. God bless you.

[@sugargold4126]

OMG! I am a mountain girl, but I WOULD NEVER do that climb! Lucky woman!

[@snakedike]

A lot of people train for climbing half dome via the cables by hiking, stair master, etc. But not many think about increasing their grip strength. It would be wise and make the trip much more pleasant if people would spend several weeks hitting the rock gym ahead of time even if they are not rock climbers.

[@hobgoblin9146]

www.ironmind.com/product-info/grip-strength-training-tools/captains-of-crush-grippers/

[@MrTangent]

Chronic masturbation is the solution. This climb is something I’ve worked my entire life for... if you know what I mean. 😉

[@Corey_G]

You look great, inspite of your accident.... ;0) Thanks for sharing.

[@texasjaco9385]

In another video of a guy that had the whole incident recorded of the fall, showed the moments leading up to her fall,her actual fall, and after the incident. He didn't show the moment she fell, for obvious reasons. But had she stayed at the spot she slid to at first, she wouldn't had fallen the depth she did. Several other climber's hollered at her to stay put, until they could get to her and help without even needing a rescue teams. But her panic took over and she tried to climb up by herself and that's when she fell the rest of the way.

[@markellis2675]

Amazing story. Terrifying, and then inspirational.

My sisters & sister in law with their friends did the half dome my younger sister couldn't go up the cables due to exhaustion my others went up & they said it's beautiful but I guess my older sister almost fell quite a few people were slipping & good thing for people who knew to plop their bodies on top of the falling or things would have gotten ugly, the Rock is so slippery any dew on it causes people to start slipping & sliding

[@HikeHalfDome]

You are 100% right on. If the rock is damp it's like motor oil. Hikers have to read alot of warnings to get a permit and many continue on thinking "it's OK." You should have real boots....tennis/smooth soles slip even when dry. Also rubber sticky gloves really help.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

Yes, it's granite rock and slippery even on a sunny day. Gina theunfoldingself.wordpress.com/my-half-dome-dance/

[@Rilester]

« I think carabinas can be helpful « .... amazing grasp of the understatement !!! 😳

[@sanfranciscobay]

A Harness with Tethers attached to the Cables should be mandatory and would have reduced her Injuries. People will continue to Fall as long as they remain untethered.

[@HikeHalfDome]

Nope - unless the calbes have "give" you can break your back after sliding the 10 ft to a pole & sudden stop. Via ferrata is the way to go....or use sticky gloves, good boots and rappel with one cable. Read my book.

[@davidjonathannn950]

respect

[@Crtnmn]

Life is precious. God is good, nature is beautiful but dangerous, and the brains ability to heal is a blessing.

[@stackedpennies4377]

Tina Fey? You got way hotter. I fell in forest falls. Cracked my head in 2 spots, ruptured ear drum, broke 2 ribs, 2 vertebral compression fractures, broken clavicle. Had a temporary spell of Bell's palsy from the swelling. That was a great 6 month recovery.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

Wow, that's a story. I'm glad you've recovered! Stay well and keep up the good work on your healing. All the best, Gina

[@BrentBart70]

Gina, I had my Jaws wired for about 6 weeks. Malclussion Just for Jaw correction back in early 90's. I feel for you. Thanks, Brent

[@ginabartiromo7179]

+Brent Carlson Thank you, Brent. It's been a long journey but I've learned so much and am so grateful to all that have been with me through the healing journey. Thanks for taking the time to watch this interview. Best, Gina

[@BrentBart70]

Gina, You are welcome. It is really extraordinary that you survived that fall and lived to tell about it. I accomplished Half Dome hike with my college friend Sheldon in May of 1990. The cable part (boards and posts) weren't set up, but we both were determined to make it. It was hard making it up because of the tugging back and forth on the cable with other climbers. Also a few times I had to find a shelf to steady myself on while someone passed. I never let go of the cable. I probably won't ever do Half Dome again. I have climbed Mt. Whitney and recently climbed Mt. Lassen (August 2015). Getting too old I guess. Thanks again for your story of survival. Keep Smiling Brent

[@HikeHalfDome]

I would NEVER go up those cables without the pipes/boards....2 women died in 2006/7. Hey, there is no age limit on Half Dome...go for it!

[@lestercarlson1547]

+Rick Deutsch Rick, I made it to the top of Half Dome Once. I have also climbed Mt. Whitney. I wanted to see you once, at 2012 Boy Scout jamboree

[@HikeHalfDome]

I spoke at Santa Clara Scout Pow wow 3 yrs. Just didn't seem to be worth the time. I enjoyed helping out, but needed to sell some books to justify.

[@NastyWorks]

Now that’s a hero

[@Skidoo22]

This happened under the auspices of the full moon on that day in Sagittarius. The life-saving slab of rock should be named the Gina Bartiromo ledge, by the park service.

[@judegarcia6135]

so when is she going back...

[@cindyhaddock4087]

Bless you! The Lord was with you! Best wishes for continued recovery! P.s. does anyone ever tell you that you look like Tina fey? 😃

[@StereoSpace]

So lucky.

[@leechjim8023]

Why didn't she have info on her!?!🤔

[@ronswanson1874]

This woman is lucky to be alive. Holy cow

[@HikeHalfDome]

She's still not fully recovered...but has married and teaches Yoga. A happy ending.

[@mikel917]

Great story! So glad she's ok. Btw... With today's technology I don't understand why they haven't had structural engineers design a pre fab ladder that actually bolts rigidly to the granite. Is it because they think the granite will fracture? I have no doubt that it could be done otherwise. They could map the route with laser measuring tools then design the ladder to fit snugly to the rock. Honestly, it just appears to be so haphazard at present. Where safety is concerned expense is necessary.

[@HikeHalfDome]

Mike - the cables were put up in 1919.....a rope was used before. The cables have been on the verge of being taken down - NOT improved. It's an adventure - a goal and a journey. ONE thing the govt hasn't made a hassle. It's in the wilderness....so you deal with the risk...BUT - only 4 people have fallen off the cables since 1919 -when they are up for summer use. And 3 were weather related....consider that 40,000 a year do it. Not bad.

[@marcvarner1]

A boat load of people die either falling into the rivers or just above the falls almost every year, should they build a pipe to divert the water around? More people are killed by cars than anything in Yosemite, should they ban cars at the border to the park? Deer kill a lot of people at the park, should they eliminate the deer? Maybe they should just close the park because it's the wilderness and it's dangerous. Or, like you say, maybe they ought to build an elevator and plexi-glass walls around so no one falls off. Which they do also.

[@mikel917]

lol....forgot your Raisin Bran last week huh

[@jeffreyscottharris]

Wow! Nothing else to say...

[@imbradandyouarenot]

She's pretty.

[@taureanlivermore4380]

Creep.

[@karenvanvuuren4813]

Taurean Livermore Nothing wrong with saying that. It's a compliment.

[@ericlakota6512]

The recue teem at Yosemite are amazing they have done some awsome id say it meesed up putting rescue workers in danger from climbing dangerous stuff but i know most of them are recreation types when not saving people

[@HikeHalfDome]

The Rangers are top notch.

[@joanntoews4433]

Gina, glad you sent me the email. So glad that things are continuing to go well for you. You had angles watching over you that day. Keep in touch.

[@brandonslezak7143]

Angles underneath her too, part of the problem

[@dumbcat]

if i ever hike half dome i'm wearing a harness and clipping onto the cable. i don't care what anybody thinks

[@johnr5252]

Why attempt the climb in such weather?

[@TheQueensWish]

Alpine weather is unpredictable. The ascent to the area where half dome is takes hours.

[@kibbitznbitz]

Was she clipped to the cables or no? Guess not?

[@HikeHalfDome]

no

[@deanfitzgerald8063]

You would have to feel a bit stupid stuffing up a climb that how many 100s of thousands have climbed without issue. Also, she said she stopped only 4 ft from 2000ft drop. Ummm. Not according to the photos. Right next to the cables half way down?

[@HikeHalfDome]

What does it matter? She almost died and didn't bother to make precise measurements.

[@deanfitzgerald8063]

@@HikeHalfDome that's true Rick. And what would be so terrifying is that sliding along on that smooth semi steep (not vert) and not been able to stop would be such a drawn out terrifying feeling. Its like extreme exposure without been on a face. I reckon half dome kinda stands alone in that aspect.

[@Kadosh77]

Wow! Not one mention of God’s Grace. I’m glad you’re ok and I will thank God for you. Thank you God for your beautiful Creation, Half Dome and for saving this woman’s life. I pray that she seeks you and finds you. In Yeshua’s name amen 🙏💕🕊️

[@icemancometh8679]

I was watching this and I said why the hell was Sarah Palin climbing Half Dome to begin with?

[@icemancometh8679]

@Tony Gunk Aren't they the same person? LOL!

[@noteasy2please876]

The harness and clip should be mandatory. What gives half these people the right to think they should or could attempt this? There should be a vetting process. Our park administration is already fighting the republicans for every red cent. They shouldn't have to spend time rescuing people who have absolutely no right climbing the mountain.

[@HikeHalfDome]

No right? You want more Big Brother control of our lives?

[@thestonedandstripped]

Don't blame this on Republicans witholding money! You psycho?

[@gabrielleandrew542]

@@HikeHalfDomeit’s a reasonable thing if some ranger has to risk their life rescuing them

[@midnighttennessee8904]

Hope you never need help, where someone else thinks you are the dip shit.

[@mariyakalynyuk162]

I can’t agree more with you that without harness this should not be allowed, I’m still sitting in shock that the first thing this lady didn’t scream about is WEAR your harness and ropes

[@whatever6403]

........I'm using all the photos without permission......

[@HikeHalfDome]

Well, you're quite the turd.

[@2brosyo952]

Inexperienced !!

[@ginabartiromo7179]

at walking? shit happens just like a car accident. Every person who gets into a car accident isn't a 'bad' driver.

[@HikeHalfDome]

Everyone who hikes HD the first time is inexperienced.

[@dfar1962]

I have one thing to say, if you are not a professional climber, then don't do it!

[@HikeHalfDome]

You don't need to be a professional climber. HD is topped by 40,000 hikers a year. With Education - Preparation and Motivation --- most anyone can do it. Have YOU been on top?

[@rayaristondo9762]

shes A FOX

[@julesradino]

Wow godbless

[@shonuff4323]

Yes she does look a little like Tina Fey but much better looking.

[@leesherman100]

Flip flops!!!???

[@HikeHalfDome]

I have have photos of sandals and one guy was barefoot.

[@Za7a7aZ]

Do americans not sue for a few million dollars if such an accident occurs? I mean somebody got to pay the bills and live with the scars..

[@HikeHalfDome]

Ash- half dome is in the wilderness. You assume ALL risk for anything you do there. No lawsuits.

[@abelgomez_XIV]

Born in Modesto 209

[@BlairMaynard]

This kinda fall could happen to anybody. Glad Gina survived. In some cases, where you see people goofing off near the tops of waterfalls and fences on cliffs, you might be able to talk about Darwin's awards, but there is no evidence here that this was such a case. People who say that Gina shouldn't be allowed to go up the face are just plain ignorant. EDIT: change "face" to "cables on half dome".

[@HikeHalfDome]

Excellent response Blair. FYI .. she didn;t go up the face...just the backside...but we got your message.

[@paddlefar9175]

+Willie Gordon Well, people could just sit safely in their rocking chairs like you, screaming at kids for walking on a bit of their lawn, I suppose.

[@ginabartiromo7179]

+ Blair Well, I hear you but I have to defend myself since I was there experiencing this first hand. The weather suddenly turned AND the pole that was attached on our way up was detached on the way down which threw the 2x4 off so I had limited footing and hand stability. Since I was there and you were not, I have to say that it was mostly caused by factors out of my control. Though I do admit that we left too late that morning and it would have been wise to be off the mountain by 3pm. All the best to you, Gina

[@zentonhallon5694]

Oh wow! Very dangerous hike! She still looks pretty hot. I'll take her. lol

[@albertochoa7331]

I'm more of a cloud rest type of a person. At Yosemite.

[@dan-b-gone6557]

Two carbs on the rope, folks.

[@jefferythum9445]

Your beautiful😊❤

[@Fochit8611]

"carabiners could be helpful"... uhh no duh

[@HikeHalfDome]

Actually not. See my book page 153 for the reasons they are NOT recommended. But if people feel more secure - go for it.

[@SWest00072]

I think there should be more stringent rules about the general public being in Yosemite and hikes like Half Dome. Fact of life aside from what the church tells people... NOT ALL PEOPLE ARE CREATED EQUAL!!! Some people just don't belong in some places... Its a reality!!! It sucks, but its the truth. Deal with it.

[@HikeHalfDome]

K1230, Thanks for your comment. In the Wilderness (Half Dome) people are able to try and extend themselves to reach a goal. In the wilderness, one is to assess the risk of doing an action then deal with it. While I agree that too many people attempt the HD hike & are not prepared. But we have too many "government - Big Brother" rules to keep us from living our passion. Gina was doing what she loved. The weather turned sour, "stuff" happens.

[@CosgroveNotts]

She needs to date me. Get clipped on nextime.

[@HikeHalfDome]

The use of a homemade harness with clips is not recommended. If you fall, you may slide down 10-feet to the next pole while hitting your head and garroting your body. If you intend to use a harness, get a real mountain climbing one that goes around your waist and thighs. You also need two shock-corded straps with 2 carabineers. The rig is called a "via ferrata." You will need to release and re-clip 68 times going up and coming down. You should do a lot of practice doing this before your trip. It will take a very long time. If you feel you cannot get up the cables, consider not doing it.

[@brandonslezak7143]

A harness is recommended, would you drive without a seat belt?? It's like those people arguing that a seat belt can cause injuries, well you know what else hurts? Being ejected from a vehicle at 65 MPH into a tree

[@HikeHalfDome]

@@brandonslezak7143 Oh, did you know the PARK does not recommend the harness. Ask the pros at the mountain shop. YOU DON'T NEED IT. Use rubber sticky gloves, good boots and be hydrated. If you are afraid - go to the museum that day.

[@Galactusz007]

Tina Fey!

[@ExploringCabinsandMines]

Libs are funny.

[@ericlakota6512]

I hope she knows God is so real angels are to and so is the devil and its more the devil's world "but" God made earth he put that ledge their

[@Xxxxxx19-p1c]

The Lord granted mercy and continues to sustain you. Please consider the book The Holiness of God by RC Sproul. Your life is not an accident.

[@albertochoa7331]

I won't use the word lucky: The LORD GOD Almighty in the precious name of the NAZARENE. For she had some unfinish work to be done. This flesh life is a very short journey.