Half Dome is the iconic symbol of Yosemite National Park, a granite dome rising 1,444 meters above the valley floor. Climbing to the summit requires a special permit obtained through a lottery system, with only 300 hikers allowed daily to ascend via the famous cables. The round-trip hike is 22 kilometers and takes 10-14 hours, featuring a steep final ascent using steel cables.
Park entrance fee. Half Dome permit +$20 ($10 application fee + $10 permit). Apply via recreation.gov
Late May to October when cables are up. Preseason lottery: March 1-31. Daily lottery available during season.
faq.subtitle Half Dome
Two ways: preseason lottery (March 1-31, results April 11) or daily lottery (two days before desired date). Only 300 permits issued daily. Apply via recreation.gov.
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