A devastating accident on Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome has claimed the life of 20-year-old Grace Rohloff, an experienced hiker and adventure-seeker. She was hiking with her father, Jonathan, when a sudden rainstorm turned the treacherous terrain deadly.
The pair had been preparing for this moment, securing a permit through a lottery system and driving from Arizona to California. But nothing could have prepared them for the tragedy that unfolded.
As they descended the cables, a thunderstorm rolled in, bringing heavy rain and slippery conditions. Despite wearing new shoes with better traction, Grace’s feet slipped, and she fell 200 feet down a steep slope.
Jonathan’s desperate attempts to reach his daughter were in vain. He waited three agonizing hours for a rescue team to arrive, comforted by park ranger Shawna Daly during the intense storm.
The news of Grace’s severe head injury and likely instant death brought some comfort to Jonathan, knowing she didn’t suffer. Witnesses described the scene as heartbreaking, yet praised Jonathan’s bravery in the face of unimaginable loss.
Grace’s memory will live on, a reminder of the risks and rewards of exploring the great outdoors. Rest in peace, Grace.
