In short
The Half Dome 2027 lottery runs from March 1 to March 31, 2027, results around April 15, 2027 (estimated dates). To improve your odds: several dates, weekdays, and the daily lottery as a back-up plan.
The key facts
| What you book | The permit for the summit cables |
|---|---|
| Lottery application period | from March 1, 2027 to March 31, 2027 |
| Opening time | It doesn't matter: it's a lottery. Applying on the first or the last day gives the same chances. |
| Lottery results | April 15, 2027 |
| Price | Lottery $10 per application, then $10 per person if you winRough estimate, check the official website. |
| How reliable these dates are | Estimated from previous years |
Step by step
- Create your Recreation.gov account Before March 1, 2027, so you don't lose time.
- Pick several dates Weekdays are less in demand than Saturdays.
- Apply between March 1, 2027 and March 31, 2027 You pay the application fee even if you lose.
- Results around April 15, 2027 If you win, you pay the permit for each person in your group.
Missed out in the March lottery? There is also a daily lottery during the season: you apply 2 days before your hike date.
What actually helps
- Pick several dates: the application takes specific dates or a date range, up to 6 people, for 225 permits a day.
- Aim for weekdays: they are less in demand than Saturdays.
- Keep the daily lottery: during the season, you apply 2 days before your hike, from midnight to 4 p.m. Pacific time.
- No need to rush: it is a lottery, the day you apply makes no difference.
Same idea: Mount Whitney
- Mount Whitney: Up to 15 dates per application: include weekdays.
| Guide | Window | Results | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Whitney | February 1 to March 1, 2027 estimated | March 15, 2027 | $6 per application, then $15 per person if you win (2026) |
To check
- The maximum number of dates per application: the official page (checked October 2026) gives no number, some websites say 7. Official website
Don't miss an opening
Add every opening on this page to your calendar: your phone reminds you 1 week before and the day before each one.
Frequently asked questions
Can you still get a permit after the March lottery?
Yes, through the daily lottery during the season: you apply 2 days before your hike.
Is the fee refunded if you lose?
Lottery $10 per application, then $10 per person if you win.
See also
Half DomeOpens March 1, 2027Mount WhitneyOpens February 1, 2027Lotteries and ballotsEvery dateHikesBy activityLottery, quota, fixed date: the 4 ways to get inThe basics
Sources and checks. Dates, prices and requirements come from the calendar's guides, which give the official source and how reliable each one is. Anything not in them yet is flagged “To check”. Page updated on October 27, 2026.