I agree, a refund would be very helpful. It would be especially helpful in cases of people cancelling their plans early.
I do not foresee them giving refunds. This is because our NF's are pretty cash-starved as it is. For lotteries, the cost helps mitigate the cost of work-hours required to organize, collect, and select applications.
In terms of a solution, Steve can back me (or correct me) up here, but I believe Thursdays in September are some of the most reliable days for getting walk-in permits. Is there a guarantee? No, but if a walk-in permit falls through maybe considering doing a non-permitted day-hike of Mt. Langley. Langley is very close to the height and challenge of climbing Whitney. It is also less crowded, and the scenery is much prettier. Though a cross-nation trip would be a hefty cost, I think a summit of Langley would be fine consolation, worthy of a cross-nation trip and boasting about back home.
