Half Dome cables day-hike permit at Yosemite: what applies in 2026?

Exact conditions

Status

Required under the listed conditions

Applies to

specific activity

Place or corridor

Half Dome Trail beyond the base of the subdome

Effective dates

May 22, 2026 through October 13, 2026

Published fee

$10

Release model

lottery

Release detail: Preseason lottery applications are accepted March 1-31 (eastern time), with results in mid-April; 225 permits per day. A daily lottery runs during the season with an application window two days before the hike date, from midnight to 4 pm Pacific time, and notification late that night.

Fee detail: $10 non-refundable application fee per application (not per person), plus $10 per person charged only if a permit is awarded. The $10 per-person fee is refundable if cancelled by 11:59 pm Pacific the day before, or if the cables are not up.

Exceptions and limits

• No permit is needed to hike to Scout Lookout or the base of the subdome.
• Backpackers, including those staying in Little Yosemite Valley, apply for Half Dome permits with their wilderness permit instead.