Half Dome Permits’ System

A group known as SaveHalfDome.com has created an online petition to try to end the Half Dome permit system which limits the number of climbers per day. The permit system began in 2010 as an attempt to combat overcrowding on Half Dome. Currently two cables lead to the top of Half Dome and a maximum of 400 climbers and backpackers are allowed to use those cables each day. Before the park began issuing Half Dome permits, crowds of up to 1,200 people a day would attempt the difficult climb. Overcrowding on the cables may have contributed to four deaths since 1996 and dozens of rescues following climbers getting stuck or falling. On the other hand, proponents of SaveHalfDome.com insist that the permit system is flawed. People who want to climb this national treasure are frequently unable to obtain permits. The Park Service makes Half Dome permits available online up to three months in advance for a small charge of $1.50. Unfortunately, scalpers frequently buy these permits in bulk and resell them at highly inflated prices. As a result, it has become increasingly difficult to climb Half Dome with an honestly gotten permit. Many Yosemite enthusiasts are also calling for a third cable to be installed up the slope. This will help reduce the overcrowding problem and help justify the elimination of Half Dome permits. The two original cables were installed by the Sierra Club in 1919, forty-five years before Half Dome was designated a wilderness area. If the park were to install a third cable now, they would likely have to battle through hearings, legislation, and possible protests from environmental groups and even many climbers who would like to have the original cables removed. Supporters of SaveHalfDome.com insist that the struggle would be worth it. A 2008 survey commissioned by the Park Service showed that 46% of climbers and backpackers are against the Half Dome permitting system and only 27% are for it. The same survey showed a substantial preference for having a third cable installed. All in all, it seems that climbers and lovers of Half Dome favor a system in which as many people as possible get to experience the joy of summiting the dome, regardless of overcrowding. For now, the permit system stays in effect. If you're planning a trip to Yosemite National Park to climb Half Dome in the upcoming months, be sure to reserve your permit as soon as possible. The park is working on implementing measures to reduce scalping and make Half Dome permits more accessible. Plan Ahead – Book Yosemite Lodging Now! Another thing you’ll want to reserve early is your Yosemite accommodations. At Scenic Wonders, we offer comfortable Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. Enjoy the homey feel of a cabin, condominium, or home when you reserve with Scenic Wonders. Our Yosemite lodging tends book quickly, especially during the summer months, so give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) today at to begin planning your memorable Yosemite vacation. Yosemite Blog Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog is meant to provide our readers with insights on Park activities, accommodations, and tips and is updated each week. Photo credit: Genista