Yosemite NP just posted to its Facebook page a link to data on date distributions for received permit applications to assist folks making their lottery choices. They apparently update the data weekly.
This isn't my cup of tea -- did Half Dome 10 years ago, sure, great, view at the top but very unhappy on the way down -- but passing along to others who may be interested.
Here is the link.
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/hdpermitsapps.htm
