A quick update on the conditions in case anybody is planning to take advantage of the permit-free situation for the next 2-3 weeks. I went up the cables on Saturday (20th) along with what seemed like over 100 other people.
There was a bit of snow on the sub dome, but i was the only person with an axe and crampons (the latter totally unnecessary), most just used hiking poles. The main dome is snow free, and given that the cables are down, around 80% of people were using prussiks (many for the first time I think..) , a few just clipped onto the wires, and a couple were completely free.
It was very busy on trail (conga line up the mist trail) quieter above little Yosemite valley, and crowded again on half dome itself.
The bugs are starting - in Yosemite valley at dusk there was light swarming albeit limited biting. From the amount of water around I suspect that in a week it will be almost unbearable without deet.
