Yep, Lori, there are many hikes that offer views equal to the view from Half Dome. among which is the Snow Creek trail, which starts near Mirror Lake and tops out near the Snow Creek area, and offers relative solitude and a stunning view looking directly across at Half Dome. And beautiful vistas up Tenaya Canyon toward Tuolummne Meadows and the upper high country.
The hike to the top of upper Yosemite Falls is another great view.
Or...drive up to Glacier Point for the remarkable view all around the park from the top of Glacier Point apron.
Unfortunately, the Half Dome cables seem to offer the casual visitor with the impression that they are actually climbing a mountain...they are not. No more than the trail hike to the summit of Mt. Whitney is actually a "mountain climb."
I've oftened wondered if local business interests have helped spur the popularity of the Half Dome cable "climb."
