To hike the Half Dome cables in 2026, you must secure a permit through a lottery system. The application windows and fees are clearly defined, and understanding these details will help you plan your trip effectively.
Verified 2026-08-09 against the official source. Park rules change, sometimes mid-season — confirm on the official page before you plan around these dates.
Planning more than one park this year? Our 2026 national park permit calendar lists every application window we have verified — plus the systems that were cancelled or suspended for 2026 that most guides still tell you to book.
Half Dome Cables Permit Overview
The Half Dome Cables Permit is essential for anyone wishing to hike the iconic Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. The permit system is designed to manage the number of hikers on this popular route, ensuring safety and preservation of the area.
| Season opens | the Friday before the last Monday in May (Memorial Day) |
|---|---|
| Season closes | the day after the second Monday in October |
| Note | Cable dates shift with conditions |
| Advance lottery — application window | March 1 – March 31 (Eastern time) |
| Advance lottery — results announced | mid-April |
| Day-of/day-before — opens | two days before the hiking date, midnight Pacific |
| Day-of/day-before — closes | 4:00 pm Pacific |
| Day-of/day-before — results announced | late that night |
| Daily quota | 300 hikers per day (about 225 day hikers, 75 backpackers) |
Application Windows and Lottery Details
There are two main ways to obtain a permit: the preseason lottery and the daily lottery. The preseason lottery allows you to apply for permits for the entire season, while the daily lottery is for last-minute hikers.
During the preseason lottery, applications are accepted from March 1 to March 31 (Eastern time), with results announced in mid-April. If you miss this window, the daily lottery opens two days before your intended hiking date at midnight Pacific and closes at 4:00 pm Pacific, with results announced late that night.
| Application | $10 per application, non-refundable |
|---|---|
| Permit | $10 per person, refundable if cancelled by 11:59 pm Pacific the day before |
Quota for Hiking Half Dome
The daily quota for Half Dome is set at 300 hikers, which includes approximately 225 day hikers and 75 backpackers. This quota helps to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Fees Associated with the Permit
There are fees associated with both the application and the permit. The application fee is non-refundable. Once you secure a permit, there is an additional fee per person, which is refundable if you cancel by 11:59 pm Pacific the day before your hike.
Planning Your Trip
To maximize your chances of securing a permit, decide in advance whether you will apply for the preseason lottery or the daily lottery. If you miss the preseason lottery, be ready to apply for the daily lottery as soon as it opens. Keep in mind that the cables’ installation dates may vary due to weather conditions, so check for updates before your trip.
Also, consider your hiking group size when applying for permits, as the quota is limited. If you have a larger group, you may need to apply for multiple permits or adjust your plans accordingly.
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