Half Dome Hiking Permit Lottery Now Open

Above, Half Dome. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We must be approaching spring, even though the recent weather in my area doesn't seem to indicate it.

But with the coming of spring, the lottery for climbing Yosemite National Park's Half Dome is now open for applicants.

According to KABC-TV:

FRESNO, Calif -- Hiking to the top of Yosemite National Park's Half Dome is one of the world's most spectacular hikes. 

It starts on a trail that winds past glorious waterfalls and ends with a strenuous cable-assisted climb up the side of the granite formation to reach the expansive vistas at the top. 

But only 300 hikers each day get the honor of making the trek, and right now, you have the opportunity to apply for a permit. 

The National Park Service is currently accepting applications for their preseason lottery. Now through March 31, climbers can submit their name online for a chance to be granted one of the 300 daily permits. 

The cost to apply for the lottery is $10 and if you win, the permit costs an additional $10.

For more information, including where to apply, go here.