Half Dome permits

Why go

The final climb follows cables up exposed granite to views over Yosemite Valley and the surrounding Sierra. This is a strenuous hike with a steep, exposed summit section. Prepare for the full route, start early enough for your plan, and turn back when weather or your condition makes continuing unsafe.

Where it is

Half Dome rises above Yosemite Valley, California. The cable route reaches the summit from the subdome. Check the official hiking information for your approach and do not assume a day-use Half Dome permit includes overnight wilderness camping.

When to go

Permits are required when the cables are up. Cable installation and removal depend on conditions, so check the current operating dates rather than treating the calendar as a guarantee. Snow and thunderstorms can affect access; a permit is permission to attempt the route, not confirmation that it is safe.

Why permits are competitive

NPS limits day-hike permits through a preseason lottery and a separate daily lottery. It advises that weekdays generally offer better chances, particularly from late August. Fixed dates and a larger party narrow the options, but applying does not guarantee a permit.

How to get a permit

The preseason lottery application period is March 1 through March 31, with results in mid-April. During the hiking season, the daily lottery opens two days before the desired hike and results arrive late that night. Check the official current-season page for the application rules, fees, and permit-holder requirements.

Lottery and cancellation rules

Cancelled and unused day-hike permits contribute to the daily lottery. They are not ordinary returned reservations that an availability alert can book. This guide therefore links to the official application process instead of offering a cancellation search. OpenCampsite does not submit a lottery application.

Plan your lottery application

1. Open the official Half Dome permit page and review the current application period.
2. Choose hiking dates, party size, and the permit holder according to the lottery rules.
3. Submit your application on Recreation.gov and check the official results.
4. If you receive a permit, confirm cable operating dates, route conditions, and your hiking plan.

OpenCampsite does not reserve a permit or submit a lottery application.

Hiker reviews and trip reports

Recent trip reports can help you understand the approach, snow, and campsite conditions. They describe individual trips; check official advisories before setting out.

Official permit information

Location, seasonal rules, reservation process, and restrictions checked against the official permit information on October 5, 2026. Confirm the current season’s notices before booking.

NPS Half Dome permits and lottery rules ↗

NPS Half Dome hiking preparation ↗

Recreation.gov Half Dome applications ↗