Half Dome Trail in Yosemite National Park is so popular that permits are now required every day for all visitors.This is an interim measure to address crowding and safety along the Half Dome Trail while the park develops a long-term plan to manage use on the Half Dome Trail.

A maximum of 400 hikers will be allowed (300 day hikers and 100 backpackers) each day on the Half Dome Trail beyond the subdome. Before the permit system was implemented in 2010, approximately 400 people used this trail on weekdays, while about an average of 800 people used this trail on weekends and holidays.

Due to public feedback and safety concerns, permits will be distributed this year by lottery via Recreation.gov. The National Park Service will hold a single preseason lottery with an application period in March and daily lotteries during the hiking season.

Read more at nps.gov.