2026 preseason cable lotteryLottery
Fixed application window. Trip window: 2026-05-15 → 2026-10-13.
Opens: Mar 1, 2026Apply by: Mar 31, 2026Results: Apr 11, 2026Confirm by: May 17, 2026
National Park Service · CA
Half Dome
Cable route access with preseason and daily lottery windows for one of Yosemite's highest-demand day hikes.
Permit requireddayUseStrenuous16 mi4,800 ft gain
Access requirement
2 ways to get a permit
Daily lotteryLottery
Daily lottery typically opens two days before the hiking date. Trip window: 2026-05-15 → 2026-10-13.
47 daysApply by · Oct 11, 2026
Opens: May 13, 2026Apply by: Oct 11, 2026
Permit rules
QuotaPermits are required to ascend the cables when they are up.
GroupUp to 6 people per application.
FeesApplication and per-person permit fees may apply.
TransferTrip leader or alternate must be present.
SafetyCable conditions change quickly; thunderstorms make the route dangerous.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
Upper Pines Campground
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 302Aug 311
Availability: Recreation.gov
North Pines Campground
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Lower Pines Campground
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Camp 4
Reservable · Recreation Fee: $10.00 per person, per night. No Show Policy: Reservation holders have until 8:30 a.m. the day following their arrival date to check-in or their camping reservation will become void. Campers should call (209) 372-8502 if they know they will be late. The maximum fee for no shows is $20 and loss of the first night’s camping fee. Discounts: Individual campers who are eligible for either the America the Beautiful Senior or Access passes are entitled to a 50% discount for the cardholder only. Discount pass must be presented at check-in or discount will be revoked and you will be required to pay the difference.
Aug 25141Aug 26194Aug 27204Aug 281Aug 29—Aug 30241Aug 31200
Availability: Recreation.gov