Dear Friends ,
I greet you from Yosemite
The Story of Half Dome includes the an Ahwahneechee tale…and a geology story.
An Ahwahneechee Tale of Half Dome…
Long ago, two travelers, Tissiak and her husband, Tokoyee, fought with each other. He became so angry that he began to beat her; enraged, she hurled her basket of acorns at him. As they stood facing each other, they were turned to stone for their wickedness The acorn basket (Basket Dome) lies upturned beside Tokoyee (North Dome) and the rock face of Tissiak (Half Dome) is stained with her tears.
A Geology Story of Half Dome
Millions of years ago, the granite block of Half Dome was larger, but there was never a matching half. Undercut by glaciers near the base, slabs of rock fell away from a broad vertical crack in the granite, leaving a sheer face. Remnants of the missing rock still project from Half Dome’s rim.
There are more granite domes in Yosemite than in any other place in the world. Massive granite domes form when large curved layers of rock “exfoliate” or slab off.
The Story of Half Dome continues to fascinate all who encounter the beautiful granite dome.
Look for Tissiak’s tears… tear stains….on Half Dome’s granite face.
Scenic Wonders invites you to experience the beauty of Half Dome…..the enduring symbol of Yosemite. Stay in one of our beautiful vacation homes or condominiums in Yosemite West. Call our reservation desk at 1-888-YOSEMITE.