I've descended both ways as well, and I preferred NDG, mostly because I like to walk, and hate to rap. Even with two ropes, I think it took 10 rappels to the very bottom. If raps are comfortable for you, and you are proficient, the raps likely are quicker, although the ctc times of 1 hour or less take the NDG. It helps to be familiar with the area. Thanks for the comment.
I've walked off to the Yosemite Falls trail (9 miles), but it involves 1400' of UPHILL hiking to get to the trail, a long up/down section, and then down the YF Trail, which is tough on the legs IMHO. The hike kicked my butt, and I like hiking. But fun if you have the time/finish early!
Nigel Tufnel - Oct 11, 2006 9:40 pm - Hasn't voted
DescentI've done the descent both ways and highly recommend the raps. North Dome Gully is a long way from the route.
You can do the raps with a single 60M rope, it takes 15 raps and uses the intermediate stations.
bearbnz - Oct 11, 2006 11:37 pm - Hasn't voted
Re: DescentI've descended both ways as well, and I preferred NDG, mostly because I like to walk, and hate to rap. Even with two ropes, I think it took 10 rappels to the very bottom. If raps are comfortable for you, and you are proficient, the raps likely are quicker, although the ctc times of 1 hour or less take the NDG. It helps to be familiar with the area. Thanks for the comment.
cleopatra - Oct 16, 2006 11:15 pm - Hasn't voted
Yosemite Falls DescentI've walked off to the Yosemite Falls trail (9 miles), but it involves 1400' of UPHILL hiking to get to the trail, a long up/down section, and then down the YF Trail, which is tough on the legs IMHO. The hike kicked my butt, and I like hiking. But fun if you have the time/finish early!