July 8, 2015 - A rockfall occurred on the face of Half Dome last Thursday night, July 2, 2015 or Friday morning, July 3, 2015.
The sliver of granite that fell is estimated to be about 2,400 tons. (A rockfall this large happens about once every year in Yosemite Valley.)
The hike to the top of Half Dome and the trail around Mirror Lake are not affected and remain open, however, the rock fell from a portion of the popular Regular Northwest Face climbing route.
Climbing rangers have assessed the area. The route is not closed, however, there is potentially loose rock, so climbers should use extreme caution if climbing in this area.
Additionally, climbers and hikers should not linger in the obvious rock debris at the base of the Regular Northwest Face route.
Visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/rockfall.htm to learn more about rockfall in Yosemite.
Source: Yosemite National Park
